Skip to content 
Padel started as a local pastime but quickly became an international sensation, growing across continents and captivating players worldwide.
Padel originated in Mexico in 1969 and has since expanded globally, becoming one of the fastest-growing sports, with increasing participation, court construction, and professional tournaments worldwide.
Explore padel's journey from its Mexican roots to its worldwide popularity.
Where did padel come from in Mexico?
Padel's origins trace back to Acapulco, where an innovative adaptation of tennis led to its creation.
Padel was invented in 1969 by Enrique Corcuera in Acapulco, Mexico, as a variation of tennis played on enclosed courts.
The story of padel's emergence highlights its unique development and cultural influence.
Key Facts About Padel’s Mexican Origins
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 1969 | Enrique Corcuera creates padel in Acapulco |
| 1974 | Padel introduced to Spain |
| 1991 | Formation of the International Padel Federation (FIP)1 |
Padel's humble beginnings in Acapulco have shaped its international expansion.
What is the history of padel?
Padel evolved from a backyard experiment to an internationally recognized sport with professional tournaments.
Padel's history began in Mexico, expanded to Spain, and then gained popularity across Europe and Latin America.
Tracing padel’s historical development reveals its rapid expansion and cultural impact.
Padel’s Global Expansion Timeline
| Period | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 1969 | Padel created in Mexico |
| 1970s-1980s | Spain adopts and promotes padel |
| 1990s | Latin America embraces the sport |
| 2000s-Present | Padel expands into Europe and beyond |
The sport's ability to blend strategy, skill, and social play fueled its international success.
When did World Padel Tour start?
The World Padel Tour (WPT2) was established to professionalize and expand competitive padel globally.
The World Padel Tour (WPT) began in 2013, organizing professional tournaments that elevated padel’s international status.
Understanding WPT's impact helps appreciate padel’s competitive growth.
World Padel Tour Highlights
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 2013 | WPT officially launched |
| 2015 | Expanded to international locations |
| 2020s | Further global expansion, increased viewership |
The WPT played a crucial role in making padel a premier global sport.
Is padel the fastest-growing sport in the world?
Padel is considered one of the fastest-growing sports3, with increasing participation, court construction, and professional tournaments worldwide.
Analyzing the factors behind padel’s growth provides insight into its future potential.
Padel’s Growth Compared to Other Sports
| Sport | Growth Rate | Global Expansion |
|---|---|---|
| Padel | Rapid | Europe, Americas, Middle East |
| Pickleball | High | North America, Europe |
| Traditional Tennis | Moderate | Established globally |
Padel's accessibility and social nature continue to drive its widespread adoption.
Conclusion
Padel’s journey from Mexico to the world showcases its remarkable rise. With increasing global participation, professional leagues, and new markets, the sport continues to thrive and expand.
