A fast-growing doubles racquet sport played on a small enclosed court with glass walls that are part of the play.
Origin and rules
Padel was invented in 1969 in Acapulco by Enrique Corcuera, who adapted a tennis court with walls. The sport spread to Spain and Argentina before becoming a global phenomenon. Two pairs play on a 20-by-10-metre court enclosed by glass and mesh.
How it plays
Scoring mirrors tennis with games, sets, and matches. Players use a solid stringless racquet and hit a depressurised tennis ball. The walls behind each pair are in play, much like a squash court, leading to long rallies.
Competition
The Premier Padel Tour leads the professional calendar, with major events in Spain, Argentina, and the Middle East. Spain and Argentina dominate the elite ranks. Padel continues to lobby for Olympic inclusion.
Find more sports by letter
Padel starts with P and ends with L. Browse other sports along the same letter.
Sports that contain a letter from "Padel":