In recent years, Britain has witnessed a quiet sporting revolution. Padel – a fast-paced racket sport blending elements of tennis and squash – is rapidly gaining popularity across the country. What was once a niche pastime known mainly on the continent is now taking root in the UK, with new courts opening, celebrities and athletes embracing the game, and growing interest from major sports bodies.
What is Padel?
Padel is played on an enclosed court roughly one-third the size of a tennis court. Unlike tennis, the walls are in play, and matches are typically played in doubles. The rackets are solid and perforated (not strung), and the scoring system mirrors that of tennis. Its appeal lies in its accessibility – easy to pick up for beginners yet tactically rich for seasoned players.
Originating in Mexico in the late 1960s, padel has become hugely popular in Spain, Argentina, and several other European and Latin American countries. Spain alone boasts more padel players than tennis players, and the sport is second only to football in participation.
Growing Popularity in the UK
Padel’s rise in the UK has been steady but has picked up significant momentum in the last five years. According to the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA), which governs the sport in Britain, there were just a handful of courts a decade ago. As of early 2025, there are over 350 padel courts across the country, and that number is expected to double within the next two years.
This expansion is being driven by a combination of private investment and public enthusiasm. High-profile venues such as Padel4All, The Padel Club, and Rocket Padel are popping up in cities like London, Manchester, Bristol, and Glasgow, offering sleek facilities and professional coaching. Meanwhile, local sports clubs and leisure centres are converting unused space to accommodate padel courts.
The Role of the LTA and Sport England
The LTA formally adopted padel under its remit in 2019, and since then, it has made concerted efforts to promote the sport. Its strategy includes funding new courts, training padel coaches, and establishing a national ranking system. The goal is to have 400,000 regular padel players in Britain by 2030.
Sport England has also recognised padel as a valuable asset in promoting physical activity, particularly for those who may be intimidated by traditional tennis or squash. Its social, inclusive nature – and the fact that it’s usually played in doubles – makes it especially attractive to a wide demographic, from teenagers to retirees.
Celebrities, Athletes, and Media Exposure
Padel’s surge in popularity has been aided by its growing celebrity fanbase. Former footballers such as David Beckham, Zlatan Ibrahimović, and Jamie Redknapp are known to play regularly, while tennis stars like Andy Murray and Emma Raducanu have sung its praises. The involvement of such figures brings credibility and visibility, drawing attention from the mainstream media and sports enthusiasts alike.
In 2024, Sky Sports began airing highlights from the Premier Padel Tour, further raising awareness. The rise of social media content around the sport – from TikTok rallies to YouTube tutorials – has helped attract a younger, tech-savvy audience.
Community and Inclusivity
One of the most compelling aspects of padel is its community feel. Because of the smaller court size and close proximity of players, the game naturally fosters interaction and camaraderie. Unlike some sports, it doesn’t require extensive equipment or elite fitness levels. People can get on court quickly, enjoy long rallies from their very first game, and participate in both casual and competitive formats.
In places like London’s Canary Wharf, Edinburgh’s Western Padel Club, and Birmingham’s We Are Padel centre, social leagues and ‘open play’ nights have become popular weekly fixtures. This emphasis on fun, fitness, and connection is part of what sets padel apart.
Looking Ahead
The future of padel in Britain looks promising. More schools and universities are incorporating the sport into their programmes. Local authorities are considering it as a way to revitalise unused sports facilities. And with increased investment from both private and public sectors, padel could soon be a fixture in towns and cities nationwide.
However, challenges remain. Court availability is still limited in many regions, and the sport will need a larger pool of trained coaches and officials to support its growth sustainably. Continued support from the LTA and grassroots initiatives will be vital.
Conclusion
Padel is no longer just a foreign curiosity; it’s on track to become a staple of the British sporting landscape. With its unique blend of accessibility, excitement, and sociability, it offers a refreshing alternative to traditional racket sports. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or a complete beginner, there’s never been a better time to pick up a bat and try your hand at Britain’s fastest-growing game.inner, there’s never been a better time to pick up a bat and try your hand at Britain’s fastest-growing game.