In the heart of Brussels, a historic transformation is underway as the iconic Royal Tennis Club de Belgique, often referred to as the “tennis temple,” is set to become a padel club. This venue, steeped in tennis history, has witnessed legendary matches featuring tennis greats like Björn Borg, John McEnroe, and Boris Becker. The club, housed in a 70-year-old listed monument near Avenue Louise, is the oldest indoor tennis court of its kind in Belgium.
The decision to convert this prestigious tennis club into a padel center marks a significant shift in the sporting landscape of Brussels. Padel, a sport that combines elements of tennis and squash, has been rapidly gaining popularity, especially since the pandemic. The new padel club will feature seven courts, replacing the original three tennis courts, and will include modernized facilities while preserving the site’s historical essence.
The transformation is being spearheaded by the business group Tero, which also operates a successful padel club in Waterloo. Their vision includes not only updating the clubhouse and furniture but also maintaining the authenticity of the venue, such as renovating the royal stand where the king once watched tennis matches.
This change reflects a broader trend in Belgium, where padel is increasingly taking over spaces traditionally dedicated to tennis. The Royal Tennis Club de Belgique’s conversion is a testament to the growing appeal of padel and its potential to attract a new generation of racket sports enthusiasts.
