padel

Padel is a racquet sport typically played in doubles on a small enclosed court. The court measures 20 meters by 10 meters and is bounded by transparent glass walls and metal mesh. The game uses a solid, stringless racket with a perforated surface and a low‑compression ball similar to a tennis ball but with slightly lower internal pressure.

Play revolves around using the walls as part of the rally: after the ball bounces on the floor, it may rebound off the walls, and the ball can be played off the walls on the return. A ball may bounce only once on the court before returning; faults include the ball going out of play, a double bounce, or illegal contact with the net.

Padel is usually played as doubles. Scoring follows the tennis system (0, 15, 30, 40) with deuce and advantage. Matches are typically best of three sets, with a set usually played to six games and a two‑game margin; many events use a tiebreak at 6–6.

Origin and governance: Padel originated in Mexico in 1969, popularized in Spain and Argentina, and has since spread globally. The sport is governed internationally by the International Padel Federation (FIP), which coordinates rules and equipment. Professional play is organized on circuits such as the World Padel Tour (WPT) and through national leagues.

Popularity and venues: Padel is common in clubs and dedicated facilities and has seen rapid growth in Europe, the Middle East, and the Americas, driven by its fast pace, tactical play, and social appeal.