Padel is taking the world by storm, becoming one of the fastest-growing racket sports. But where did it all begin? Unlike tennis or squash, padel has a unique origin story that started in Mexico and quickly spread across continents. Let’s take a look at how padel evolved into the sport we know and love today.
The Birth of Padel (1969)
Padel was invented in 1969 by Enrique Corcuera, a wealthy Mexican businessman. In his home in Acapulco, Corcuera wanted a tennis court but lacked the space. Instead, he built a smaller court with walls, creating a hybrid sport that blended tennis and squash. He established the first official rules, setting the foundation for modern padel.
Key Milestones in Padel’s History
- 1974 – Padel Arrives in SpainCorcuera’s friend, Prince Alfonso de Hohenlohe, introduced padel to Spain, building the first courts at the Marbella Club. The sport quickly gained popularity among the elite.
- 1975 – Padel Spreads to ArgentinaArgentine millionaire Julio Menditenguia discovered padel in Marbella and took it to Argentina, where it became a national sensation. Today, Argentina remains one of the sport’s powerhouses.
- 1991 – The First International Padel Federation (FIP) is FoundedSpain and Argentina led the formation of the FIP (Federación Internacional de Pádel) to unify the sport and create official rules.
- 1992 – The First World Padel ChampionshipsThe inaugural World Padel Championships were held in Madrid, marking the sport’s global expansion.
- 2005 – Padel Pro Tour (PPT) LaunchedThe PPT became the first professional circuit, bringing elite players and international attention to the sport.
- 2013 – The World Padel Tour (WPT) BeginsThe WPT replaced the PPT, elevating padel with sponsorships, prize money, and global broadcasting.
- 2020s – Padel’s Explosive GrowthPadel courts and clubs have surged worldwide, especially in Europe, the Middle East, and the United States. The sport has grown from a niche pastime to a global phenomenon with over 25 million players.
The Future of Padel
With state-of-the-art rackets, innovative court designs, and high-profile tournaments, padel is here to stay. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, now is the perfect time to step up your game.
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