The History of Padel: From Humble Beginnings to Global Phenomenon

Padel, a dynamic and fast-growing sport, has captured the hearts of millions worldwide. But how did this unique sport come to life? Let’s dive into the history of Padel and explore how it evolved into the phenomenon we know today. The Birth of Padel Padel was born in 1969 in Acapulco, Mexico, thanks to the creative vision of Enrique Corcuera. Enrique, an avid tennis fan, didn’t have the space for a traditional tennis court on his property. Instead, he built a smaller court surrounded by walls and wire fencing to keep the ball in play. This design added an exciting twist, as players could use the walls to make strategic shots. Enrique’s innovation wasn’t just a solution to a spatial issue—it was the birth of an entirely new sport. He named it “Paddle Tennis,” a nod to the paddle rackets used in the game. The Journey to Spain The sport began to gain momentum when a Spanish friend of Enrique, Alfonso de Hohenlohe, discovered Padel during a visit to Mexico. Intrigued by the game’s unique charm, Alfonso brought Padel to Marbella, Spain, in 1974. He built the first official Padel courts at the Marbella Club, sparking interest among Spain’s elite. The sport quickly gained popularity, especially on the Costa del Sol, and spread to other parts of Spain, where it became a beloved recreational activity. Padel in Argentina While Spain embraced Padel, it was in Argentina that the sport exploded. In the late 1970s and 1980s, Argentine players and clubs embraced Padel with unmatched enthusiasm. By the early 1990s, Argentina had over 10,000 courts and millions of players, making it a national sensation. The Global Expansion The 1990s marked Padel’s journey beyond its traditional strongholds. The sport began spreading across Europe, with Spain as the hub of its growth. Today, Padel is played in over 90 countries and is recognized as one of the fastest-growing sports in the world. The International Padel Federation (FIP), founded in 1991, has been instrumental in promoting and organizing Padel on a global scale. The FIP oversees international tournaments and has worked tirelessly to include Padel in global sporting events. Modern-Day Padel Padel’s unique blend of tennis, squash, and social interaction has made it a favorite among players of all ages. With its accessible learning curve and dynamic gameplay, Padel continues to attract newcomers. Today, Padel courts are popping up in countries like Sweden, Italy, the UK, and even the USA. Professional tours, such as the World Padel Tour, showcase the sport’s elite talent, while grassroots initiatives help introduce the game to communities worldwide. The Future of Padel As Padel’s popularity continues to soar, it shows no signs of slowing down. The sport’s ability to bring people together, its adaptability to various skill levels, and its sheer fun factor make it a global favorite. From Enrique Corcuera’s backyard in Mexico to a global phenomenon, Padel’s journey is a testament to how innovation and passion can create something truly extraordinary. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a curious newcomer, there’s never been a better time to join the Padel revolution. So grab your paddle, find a court, and become part of the history in the making!