Padel History: Origins and Evolution
Learn about the fascinating history of padel from its origins in Mexico to its worldwide expansion.
Origins in Mexico
Acapulco, 1969
Padel was born at Enrique Corcuera's house in Las Brisas, Acapulco. Corcuera wanted to create a sport that could be played in a smaller space than tennis, adapting the rules to include walls as part of the game.
First Court
20m x 10m with 3m high walls
First Rackets
Made of solid wood, without strings
Basic Rules
Underhand serve, wall use, mandatory doubles
Expansion to Spain
1974
First court in Spain
Prince Alfonso de Hohenlohe builds the first padel court at Marbella Club, introducing the sport to Spain.
1975
First Federation
The Spanish Padel Federation is created, establishing the first official rules of the sport.
1991
First World Championship
The first Padel World Championship is held in Madrid, with participation from 8 countries.
Sport Evolution
1990s Decade
- Racket improvements: carbon fiber and EVA foam
- Indoor courts for winter play
- First professional tournaments
2000s Decade
- Expansion to Argentina and Brazil
- Creation of World Padel Tour
- First television broadcasts
Worldwide Growth
With active federations
Worldwide
Installed globally
Estimated annual value
Padel Today
Expanding Sport
Padel is one of the fastest-growing sports in the world, with a global community that continues to grow every day.