In the evolving landscape of racket sports, padel is rapidly capturing the attention of players and enthusiasts globally. With its unique blend of tennis and squash, this game is gaining a substantial following, especially among hotels and resorts looking to attract active guests.
Padel is not a brand-new phenomenon; its roots can be traced back to the 1960s in Mexico. However, its popularity has surged recently, particularly in regions like Spain and Argentina. The 2024 Global Padel Report shows impressive growth, revealing that nearly 6,000 new padel courts were established worldwide in 2023—a 16% increase from the previous year. Alongside this, over 2,500 new padel clubs opened, marking new frontiers in countries such as France, the U.K., Germany, and the U.S.
Why Padel is Gaining Popularity
According to Ian Ryder, co-founder of Padel Tripper, padel is transforming the sporting landscape in some areas faster than soccer did. “In Spain, it’s actually overtaken soccer as a participation sport now,” he remarked. Ryder anticipates that within the next five to six years, padel could surpass pickleball in popularity in the U.S.
Founded in early 2023, Padel Tripper specializes in organizing group travel experiences centered around padel. The company offers customizable packages, including a standard three-night, four-day coaching trip starting at approximately $800. These packages include accommodations, coaching, and tournament access.
The Allure of Padel
So, what makes padel so appealing? Ryder emphasizes its accessibility and the social connections it fosters. “For tennis, you’ve got to spend months just trying to get the serve. But with padel, you can actually start to rally very quickly without any particular skill,” he explained. The smaller, enclosed courts contribute to a communal atmosphere, making the game enjoyable for everyone involved.
Padel players pose during a Padel Tripper-organized trip. Photo Credit: Padel Tripper
“I’ve never experienced anything like it from a social perspective — everyone’s noisy and laughing,” said Ryder, highlighting its inclusivity, especially as a sport that attracts a higher percentage of female players compared to tennis.
Hotels and Resorts Embrace Padel
Hotels and resorts are quickly recognizing the trend, with facilities being added to meet demand. One such example is Hotel Alicante Golf, which features on-site padel courts and is situated near one of the top padel centers globally, the Bela Padel Center. Ryder noted, “Every padel player I speak to, when they go on holiday, the first thing they do is look to see where the padel courts are.” Therefore, establishments incorporating these facilities are positioning themselves strategically.
Globally, high-end hotels are enhancing their offerings with padel courts. For instance, the Gleneagles Hotel in Scotland recently introduced its Gleneagles Sporting Club, featuring three padel courts. In Morocco, the Oberoi Marrakech has integrated a padel court into its fitness amenities. Additionally, the Baha Mar resort complex in the Bahamas is set to expand its John McEnroe Tennis Center by adding padel courts in the near future.
Case Study: Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa
In the U.S., the Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa, located near San Diego, recently partnered with sporting goods company Wilson to open three new padel courts. Driven by demand from guests and members, the resort has transitioned one of its existing tennis courts into three padel courts, crafted by Grupo Padel Galis World, showcasing panoramic glass walls and lush landscapes.
Padel players at Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa. Photo Credit: Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa
Lisa Rosenthal, club director at Rancho Valencia, explained the significance of adding padel. “We’re always looking to be at the forefront of the racket sports and wellness industry,” she said. “Members were asking about the possibility of adding padel.” The resort’s commitment to evolving its offerings aligns with the increasing interest in the sport.
Unlike pickleball, known for its loud “pop” sound, padel has received overwhelmingly positive reviews from guests. “It’s louder than tennis, but not as loud as pickleball,” Rosenthal noted, adding that many guests are curious about the unfamiliar sport. “It’s such a brand-new thing to explore in the racket sports world, which doesn’t happen often,” she stated.
Notably, the addition of padel has been particularly popular among Rancho Valencia’s international guests. “Many of our loyal international guests are thrilled to discover these courts for the sport they play at home,” Rosenthal concluded.
With padel’s rapid growth and expanding facilities across hotels and resorts, the sport is set to make waves in the racket sports community, affirming its place as the next big trend in sports and leisure activities.
