Padel, the Fast-Growing Racket Sport, Gains Popularity Across Hotels and Resorts
In a sweeping trend that is outshining even pickleball, hotels and resorts around the globe are embracing padel. This exhilarating sport, a hybrid of tennis and squash, is attracting a dedicated following at an unprecedented rate. While padel has roots dating back to the 1960s in Mexico, its expansion into new international markets is fueling a surge in popularity. Countries such as Spain and Argentina have long been padel hubs, but recent growth has captured interest in regions such as the U.K., Germany, France, and the U.S.
According to the 2024 Global Padel Report from Playtomic and PwC, the number of padel courts opened globally grew by 16% in 2023, totaling approximately 6,000 new courts. Moreover, over 2,500 new padel clubs have emerged worldwide, solidifying its status as a rapidly expanding sport.
“In Spain, participation in padel has surpassed soccer,” remarked Ian Ryder, co-founder of Padel Tripper. “I envision padel overtaking pickleball in the U.S. within five to six years.”
Established in early 2023, Padel Tripper specializes in organizing padel trips, initially focused on Spain. Catering to private groups as well as individual travelers, Padel Tripper offers a curated selection of experiences that range from streamlined packages starting around $800, covering accommodations, coaching, and tournament participation.
One of the key factors behind padel’s rising appeal lies in its accessibility. Ryder explains, “Unlike tennis, where mastering the serve can take considerable time, padel allows players to start rallying almost immediately, making it easier to pick up.” The sport’s smaller, enclosed courts foster a lively communal atmosphere, promoting camaraderie and social interaction among players.
“It’s an entirely different vibe—everyone is engaged and often laughing,” Ryder noted, highlighting padel’s inclusivity. With a notable increase in female participation compared to traditional tennis, the sport is fostering a diverse playing community.
Among Padel Tripper’s recommended accommodations is the Hotel Alicante Golf, which features on-site padel courts and proximity to the esteemed Bela Padel Center, regarded as one of the best in the world. “Every padel player I encounter searches for local courts when traveling,” Ryder emphasized, noting that hotels integrating padel facilities are positioning themselves as industry leaders.
Globally, high-end hotels and resorts are increasingly adding padel to their amenities. For instance, the Gleneagles Hotel in Scotland recently launched its Gleneagles Sporting Club, which includes three padel courts and specialized coaching. Similarly, the Oberoi Marrakech in Morocco and the Baha Mar resort in the Bahamas are also expanding their fitness offerings with padel courts.
In the United States, the Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa has transformed one of its tennis courts into three dedicated padel courts, responding to strong demand from guests. “Our members have expressed great interest in adding padel,” said Lisa Rosenthal, club director at the resort. “We’re committed to being at the forefront of racket sports and wellness.”
Renowned for its expansive sports facilities, Rancho Valencia partnered with Wilson to develop these courts, featuring glass walls that enhance both visibility and ambiance amid the resort’s lush landscape. Rosenthal commented that the sound generated in padel is notably more subtle compared to the sharp “pop” associated with pickleball, creating a more pleasant atmosphere. “Curiosity is high, as many guests are eager to learn how to play this exciting new sport,” she added.
International visitors at Rancho Valencia have enthusiastically welcomed the new padel offerings. “Many of our guests come from countries where they play padel regularly, and they’re thrilled to find these facilities here,” Rosenthal remarked. “We are one of the few luxury resorts in the U.S. to offer padel.” With the increasing momentum of this sport, it’s clear that padel is not simply a passing trend but a significant player in the world of racket sports.
