If you haven’t heard of padel yet – it’s time to get acquainted. What started as a niche racket sport has quickly become a full-blown lifestyle across Europe, with Marbella at its sun-soaked centre. But what exactly is padel, and why is everyone playing it?
What Is Padel?
Padel is a dynamic hybrid of tennis and squash. Played in doubles on an enclosed court about a third the size of a tennis court, it combines strategy, reflexes, and fast-paced rallies. The rules are simple to pick up, the learning curve is friendly – and most importantly, it's fun.
Unlike tennis, you serve underarm, and the walls are part of the game – just like squash. It’s all about reaction time, positioning, and working together as a team.
Why Is It So Popular?
The answer is simple: accessibility. Padel is easy to learn, incredibly social, and less physically demanding than some other racket sports, which makes it appealing to players of all ages and fitness levels.
Add in the tactical depth and the addictive rallies, and it’s no wonder that padel has exploded across Europe, from Stockholm to Seville.
Marbella: The Padel Capital
Marbella, with its year-round sunshine, Mediterranean lifestyle, and strong sporting culture, has become a global padel hotspot. Courts are everywhere, from private clubs to beachside courts, and the local padel community is thriving.
Here, padel isn’t just a sport – it’s a way of life. It’s coffee before matches, long rallies with friends, and post-game tapas in the sun. It’s competitive, casual, and community-driven.
Padel isn’t just a trend – it’s a movement. Whether you're stepping onto the court for the first time or a regular at your local club, the energy, pace, and lifestyle around padel make it one of the most exciting sports today.