Padel began as a backyard invention in Mexico and has grown into one of the fastest-expanding sports worldwide, now thriving across Europe, the UK, and the US.
The accidental birth in Acapulco
Padel was born in 1969 when Enrique Corcuera, a wealthy businessman in Acapulco, Mexico, modified his home tennis court by adding walls to prevent the ball from escaping. What started as a practical solution for recreational play quickly evolved into a new sport. Corcuera’s enclosed court blended elements of tennis and squash, creating a dynamic, fast-paced game that could be played in smaller spaces.
Spain’s jet-set adoption
The sport might have remained a local curiosity if not for Prince Alfonso de Hohenlohe, who visited Corcuera’s home and was captivated by the game. He introduced padel to Marbella, Spain, building the first courts at his resort and promoting it among the European elite. This exposure helped padel gain traction in Spain during the 1970s and 1980s, eventually becoming a mainstream sport with thousands of courts across the country.
Argentina’s boom and bust
Padel exploded in Argentina during the 1990s, becoming a national phenomenon with millions of players and televised tournaments. However, economic instability and lack of infrastructure led to a sharp decline in the early 2000s. Despite this setback, Argentina remained a powerhouse in producing top talent, with many of today’s leading professionals hailing from the country.
A pandemic-fueled resurgence
The COVID-19 pandemic unexpectedly reignited padel’s global growth. With people seeking safe, outdoor activities, padel’s accessibility and social nature made it an ideal choice. New clubs opened rapidly in cities like London, Paris, and Miami, and participation surged. Apps like Playtomic and Padel Mates helped connect players, book courts, and build communities, accelerating the sport’s expansion.
A unified professional circuit
One of the most significant developments in padel’s modern era is the merger between the World Padel Tour and Premier Padel. This unification has created a more coherent global circuit, attracting sponsors, media attention, and a growing fan base. The sport now boasts a professional calendar with events across continents, and its visibility continues to rise.
From niche to global phenomenon
Padel’s journey from a walled backyard in Acapulco to a global sport is marked by innovation, cultural adoption, and resilience. Today, it’s played by millions, with new courts appearing in schools, clubs, and public parks. Whether you’re a newcomer or a seasoned player, padel’s story is a reminder of how a simple idea can evolve into a worldwide movement.
