Joyce Ochieng

Joyce Ochieng

on August 26, 2024
Padel Tennis Explained

Padel tennis is making waves as one of the fastest-growing racquet sports worldwide, blending elements of tennis and squash into a unique and thrilling experience. Unlike traditional sports, padel captivates with its lively gameplay and social engagement, making it a hit among enthusiasts. But what exactly is padel tennis all about? Let’s dive in and get padel tennis explained!!

What is Padel Tennis?

Padel tennis is a fresh and exciting sport that’s taken the sporting world by surprise. Often described as a mix between tennis and squash, it’s played on an enclosed court, usually in doubles.

Origins and Evolution

Padel traces its roots to the sun-drenched shores of Mexico. Enrique Corcuera is credited with its invention, setting up the first known court in Acapulco in the 1960s. By the mid-1970s, the sport captured hearts in Spain, thanks to Prince Alfonso of Hohenlohe who introduced it to the Spanish populace. Since then, it has grown exponentially.

How the Game is Played?

Padel tennis is typically played on a court, similar to tennis, but with the court being smaller, and surrounded by walls that the ball can bounce off. It’s played always in doubles, and the serve must be underhand. The scoring system is similar to that of tennis, but padel involves strategic use of glass walls for rebounds, creating engaging rallies.

Padel Tennis Explained
Coach Teaching Padel Tennis: Why is Padel Gaining Popularity?

So, why is padel tennis suddenly the talk of the town? Here are a few reasons to get padel tennis explained:

  • Accessibility and Inclusivity

Unlike other games which requires a certain skill level., padel is pretty easy to learn. All it requires to learn padel is a racket, and a whole lot of energy. The smaller court size, underhand serve, and forgiving walls make it a sport that players of all ages and skill levels can enjoy. And that means any of us can have a good time playing a set of padel!

Padel Tennis is easily accessible to people of all ages and skill levels : Image by freepik
  • Double the fun!!

Padel is played in doubles, meaning there is the aspect of social interaction when players engage with each other. We can go as far as saying that padel isn’t just a game but a social event, fostering connections and building communities.

Padel is typically played in doubles: Image by freepik

The smaller court means players are in closer proximity to each other, encouraging companionship and making it a perfect sport for friends and families. The emphasis on strategy and teamwork also levels the playing field, allowing mixed-age and mixed-gender games.

  • Fast-Paced and Exciting

The combination of tennis-like volleys and squash-style wall play makes padel tennis a fast-paced, exhilarating sport. Rallies can be longer, and the unpredictability of the ball bouncing off walls adds an exciting element of surprise, keeping players on their toes and making each game a fresh challenge.

Indoor Padel Tennis Game: Image by freepik
  • Growing Global Popularity

Originally popular in Spain and Latin America, padel tennis has spread rapidly across Europe and is now gaining a foothold in North America and beyond. The sport’s growth has been fueled by the construction of padel courts in clubs and communities, along with high-profile endorsements by professional athletes.

Man playing padel tennis: Court and Equipment Differences

Imagine a smaller tennis court, enclosed with glass to give a squash-like environment. That’s a padel court! The racquets are solid and slightly smaller than tennis racquets, and the ball used resembles a tennis ball but is a touch less pressurized. To better get padel tennis explained, you can see a comparison between padel, tennis, and squash.

Photo of a Padel Court: Image by freepik:
Women in a padel court :Image by freepik

Conclusion

Well, that’s padel tennis explained! Remember, padel tennis isn’t just a game; it’s an invitation to fun, fitness, and friendship. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or looking for a new pastime, padel offers an exciting avenue to explore. So grab a racquet, rally some friends, and embrace the thrilling world of padel. To start you off, here are some places in Australia you can find some padel courts: https://www.padelaus.com.au/courts-and-clubs/.

Have a fun time playing!

Written by Joyce Ochieng for the CBF Store