Swedish football legend Zlatan Ibrahimović has once again made headlines, this time by opening a state-of-the-art padel facility in Sollentuna, Stockholm. The new venue, named Padel Zenter, is part of Ibrahimović’s vision to promote the growth of padel and football in Sweden.
Despite the recent decline in padel facilities across the country due to market saturation, Ibrahimović remains optimistic about the sport’s future. “I truly believe in the sport,” he told Swedish newspaper Dagens Nyheter. “It is the fastest-growing sport globally, and I want to give Sweden the opportunity to keep playing without facilities closing down.”
The facility boasts cutting-edge padel courts and innovative football training areas, including a 5×5 pitch and Zpeed Football zones. Ibrahimović’s concept, called speedball, aims to develop the next generation of football players by emphasizing both offensive and defensive skills. “This concept will change Swedish players. I’m one hundred percent sure about that,” he said.
Ibrahimović’s passion for padel and football is evident in his commitment to providing a platform for young athletes to thrive. “My goal is to develop a new type of football player within five to ten years, and that requires a proper platform,” he explained. With his new facility, Ibrahimović hopes to foster interest in padel and ensure its sustainable future in Sweden.
The opening of Padel Zenter marks another milestone in Ibrahimović’s illustrious career, showcasing his dedication to sports development and his belief in the potential of both padel and football. As he continues to inspire and innovate, the world eagerly watches to see what he will achieve next.
