Padel's origins trace back to Mexico in the 1960s. Initially a pastime among the elite, the sport quickly gained popularity and spread to Spain and across Latin America. By the 1990s, Padel had established itself as a mainstream sport in Spain, later expanding to other European countries and beyond. Its unique blend of accessibility and tactical depth has made it a favorite among both casual players and serious athletes.
Padel is a racket sport that combines elements of tennis and squash. It is played on an enclosed court about a third of the size of a tennis court. The game is predominantly played in doubles, making it a highly social and engaging sport. The scoring system in Padel is the same as tennis. Games are scored as 15 (1 point), 30 (2 points), 40 (3 points), and game (4 points), with a deuce at 40-40. Matches are played in the best-of-three-sets format. What sets Padel apart is the use of walls. Players can play the ball off the walls, similar to squash, adding an extra dimension to the game.
Padel is expanding rapidly, with courts springing up in over 57 countries. It's not just a sport; it's a movement. As it gains international momentum, the opportunity for early investors in the U.S. is unprecedented.
The surge in Padel's popularity isn't just good news for sports enthusiasts; it's a golden opportunity for investors. With its low barrier to entry and high engagement rate, Padel facilities are seeing quick returns on investment, outpacing many traditional sports venues.
The numbers speak for themselves. In the last two years alone, Padel has attracted over 25 million players globally. This explosive growth, primarily in Europe, is a testament to the sport's appeal and potential. The U.S. market is ready for this trend, and those who invest now will be the ones to get the best results.