Sophie Walker, once a familiar name on the Ladies European Tour and now an established sports commentator, is stepping onto a new kind of court as the face of Soul Padel’s nationwide growth campaign. Based in Stockport and a regular at Soul Padel’s local venue, Walker’s love for the fast-rising sport of padel has evolved into a greater mission—making it accessible, sociable, and inclusive.
With years spent navigating male-dominated spaces in professional golf and sports media, Walker found padel to be a leveller. The game, with its underarm serves and emphasis on agility over brute strength, has allowed her and others to connect across gender lines. “It surprised me how evenly matched men and women can be on the court,” she said, highlighting the game’s naturally mixed appeal.
Her journey into padel started with casual games and quickly turned into a regular habit. “I can jump in for an hour, find players at my level, and be back home with a smile,” she explained. Compared to the rigidity and exclusivity she sometimes faced in golf, padel offered spontaneity and a stronger sense of community.
Walker’s partnership with Soul Padel underscores the organisation’s values—breaking barriers, amplifying social benefits, and laying a strong foundation while the sport is still scaling in the UK. She believes this moment is pivotal. “We have a rare chance to shape how this game grows. Let’s get it right from the beginning—welcoming families, juniors, and especially women,” she noted.
Soul Padel founder Mark Hewlett echoed that enthusiasm, praising Walker’s authenticity and drive to make sport more equitable. “She doesn’t just talk about change—she lives it,” he said.
With a sport science and business management degree from Loughborough University, a hub for both academic and athletic excellence, Walker brings both insight and credibility to her ambassador role. Together with Soul Padel, she hopes to inspire new players and cultivate padel as the UK’s most inclusive team sport.
What started as a local hobby is now a national movement—one that Walker is ready to lead with energy, experience, and a genuine love for the game.
