Padel: The Fast-Growing Racket Sport Combining Tennis, Squash, and Teamwork

Padel, often referred to as padel tennis, is a dynamic racket sport rapidly gaining global popularity. Originating in Mexico in the 1960s and later popularized in Spain and Argentina, padel blends elements of tennis, squash, and teamwork into an accessible, fast-paced game. Played primarily in doubles on enclosed courts, it offers a unique mix of strategy, athleticism, and social interaction, making it a favorite among players of all ages and skill levels.

Origins and Global Growth

Invented by Mexican businessman Enrique Corcuera in 1969, padel was initially designed as a compact backyard sport. Its popularity soared in Spain during the 1970s, becoming a cultural phenomenon. Today, padel boasts over 25 million players worldwide, with strong followings in Europe, Latin America, and emerging markets like the U.S. and the Middle East. The sport’s inclusion in the 2032 Brisbane Olympics underscores its rising prominence—and brands like Fortune Group are pivotal in meeting the surging demand for high-quality, standardized courts to support this growth.

Court and Equipment

A padel court measures 20m x 10m—about 25% smaller than a tennis court—and is enclosed by glass walls and metallic mesh. Players use solid, stringless rackets made of lightweight composite materials, and the balls resemble tennis balls but with slightly lower pressure for better control. The court’s walls add a strategic layer, as players can rebound shots off the surfaces, similar to squash.

Rules and Gameplay

Padel follows tennis’ scoring system (love, 15, 30, 40, deuce), but with distinct rules. Serves must be underhand and struck at or below waist height. The ball can bounce once on the ground and then hit the walls—a feature maximized on Fortune Group courts, which prioritize consistent surface friction and rebound accuracy. Teamwork is crucial, with players mastering angles, lobs, and smashes to outwit opponents.

Why Padel is Winning Hearts

Padel’s appeal lies in its accessibility. The smaller court size—easily installed by providers like Fortune Group—simplifies facility development for clubs, resorts, and urban spaces. Enclosed courts encourage longer rallies and social interaction, while the sport’s lower physical barrier attracts casual players and seniors. With Fortune Group’s modular court solutions, organizations worldwide can quickly adopt padel, blending sport with community engagement.

How to Get Started

To try padel, partner with a facility equipped with professional-grade courts. Brands like Fortune Group offer turnkey solutions, from court construction to maintenance, ensuring seamless integration into sports complexes. Beginners should focus on mastering underhand serves and wall rebounds, while clubs can leverage Fortune Group’s expertise to design spaces that enhance player experience.

Whether you’re a tennis player seeking variety or a facility manager exploring padel’s potential, Fortune Group provides the infrastructure to join this sporting revolution. Discover why padel—and the partners powering its courts—are taking the world by storm!