The Business of Padel - Why is Padel so popular?

If you’re wondering, ‘Why is padel so popular?’, we are here to explain why. In 2025, the number of padel courts in the UK is expected to rise by 1000. From ease of play to global growth and celebrity endorsements from the likes of Shakira and Christano Ronaldo. We are going to explore the rise of padel as a global sport, the business of padel and the growing business opportunities available. 

Why is padel so popular?

With over 129,000 annual padel players in the UK in 2025, padel is reported to be the fastest-growing sport in the world. There are various reasons why padel became so popular so fast; we will discuss each of those reasons below. 

Accessibility and Easy Learning Curve

Originating in Mexico in the 60s, padel is a hybrid of tennis and squash. When compared to sports such as tennis and squash, padel is a lot easier to learn for the vast majority of players, making it a more enjoyable sporting activity for a range of people. Although it has the same scoring system, the rules and technique vary significantly. From playing in doubles and having stringless rackets to using a less pressurised ball and being able to bounce the ball off walls, it allows for a more relaxed and enjoyable game. This has attracted a range of players of all ages and skill levels. 

Social and Fun Environment

Due to the nature of its accessibility, padel has become a go-to sport for recreational activities among friends and family. Whether you are visiting the park, on holiday or at a sports facility, padel is the perfect sport to get moving and have some fun with your friends without having to follow strict rules or difficult gameplay.

Global Growth and Expansion

Another reason that might leave you wondering ‘why is padel so popular?’ is due to the global growth and expansion. Although padel is set to grow vastly in the UK this year, it is also growing across the world, adding to the popularity and desire to join the trend. It is growing at an increasingly fast rate, especially in areas such as Spain, Italy, Sweden and Argentina.  

Physical Benefits and Low Injury Risk

Contributing to the desirability of padel is the low risk of injury. Due to its low-impact risk, padel offers great cardiovascular exercise without the high-impact risks of those associated with sports like tennis. This has attracted those who are looking to stay active without the risk of injury. 

Celebrity Endorsement and Media Coverage

Helping to further endorse padel, there have been various high-profile athletes and celebrities helping to draw attention to the sport. This has led to increased media coverage which has helped to spread awareness of padel. Padel has become popular amongst fellow athletes including Theo Walcott and Laura Robson, as well as reality stars like Tristan Phipps and Spencer Matthews. This celebrity endorsement has helped padel to grow significantly through investment and support of the sport.  

The business of padel 

Now we have a better understanding of ‘Why is padel so popular?’, let’s dive into the business of padel. First of all, due to the growing demand for padel facilities, the profitability of investing in padel court installation is significant. Whether you are a sports club, a hotel, a leisure facility, a university, a shopping centre or a corporate campus, the demand for padel facilities is increasing, and by offering this popular sport, you could help to attract new potential customers, making it a great investment choice. Businesses such as Tennis World and Hatfield London Country Club have already made plans to invest in padel court installation. Therefore, now is the time to take the plunge and benefit from the business of padel.

The cost of investing in a new padel court does have its benefits. Whether you are looking to drive revenue through investment potential in creating padel clubs and resorts, or you are looking at increasing revenue through court rentals, padel lessons and attracting new visitors through your new offerings, there are various revenue opportunities for the sport available. 

There is also the opportunity to invest in commercial partnerships and sponsorships with companies looking to partner with padel events. This can help increase your brand's visibility and create additional beneficial marketing opportunities.

Why you should consider investing in padel

The business of padel is a growing and lucrative opportunity for many businesses across the UK. The expanding padel market and the demand for padel infrastructure are increasing at a rapid rate. All of this, combined with a predicted rise in global participation highlights the significant investment opportunity available.

Here at INUI we provide everything you need from padel court design and installation to padel court lighting. Whether you are a tennis club looking to convert a court into padel or a hotel or leisure centre looking to build a brand new padel court, we have everything you need to bring padel to your customers. Get in touch with our team today and start benefiting from the rising popularity of padel.