With an estimated 600,000 players projected within the next few years, the rapid rise of Padel is posing serious questions about the future of tennis in its homeland. The sport that originated in Mexico as a hybrid of tennis and squash has seen exponential growth in the UK in recent times.

According to the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA), Padel currently has around 90,000 participants, a massive rise from just 6,000 players in 2020. At this rate of increase, the LTA hopes Padel will boast 1,000 courts and a player count of 600,000 by 2026 (FT.com). These figures dwarf tennis’ current numbers and have raised doubts about whether it can maintain its stronghold.

Padel’s popularity surge puts a question mark on tennis’s future in the UK

A key factor in Padel’s surge in popularity is its relatively easy learning curve. “It’s much more accessible than tennis as you don’t need great technique or athleticism to play. This makes it very social and fun for people new to racquet sports,” explains Tom Murray, LTA’s Head of Padel (FT.com). The enclosed court and permission to bounce the ball off walls lower the skill level needed.

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“Padel allows you to spend more time actually hitting the ball rather than running around for it as in tennis,” notes social player Lisa Brown (32). “I’ve found it a lot less intimidating to pick up and play with friends.” This ease of play has resonated strongly with recreational players.

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It is clear that the Padel sport has a lot of advantages. As this sport developed after tennis, it also filled a lot of its gaps. However, tennis remains a powerful sport. Adding to its prominence, tennis is all set to receive a major boost.

Olympic boost for tennis?

While the numbers favor Padel’s rise overtaking tennis presently, the latter is set to receive a major boost from tennis’ inclusion in the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics (Source: Olympics.com). The LTA hopes the spotlight of an Olympic home game will reinvigorate interest amongst the British public.

“We’re optimistic the Olympics can rekindle passion for our sport. It’s about promoting tennis’ elite level to inspire more people to pick up a racket,” states Murray. Only time will tell if this proves enough to slow Padel’s march.

With its rapid growth and community-driven appeal, Padel has undoubtedly shaken up racquet sports in the UK. The next few years will be pivotal in deciding whether it manages to overshadow tennis on its home turf or if the latter can fight back with the Olympic lift. Either way, British players now have more options than ever to get active with a racket in hand.

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