Padel, a sport that’s quickly gaining global momentum, is making its mark in India. This hybrid of tennis and squash, attracting major names like Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, and Rafael Nadal, is now establishing a presence in Kerala. The sport, valued at over $2 billion worldwide, has seen significant investments from the likes of Qatar Sports Investments, owners of Paris Saint-Germain, who acquired the World Padel Tour last year. This move led to the establishment of a unified Premier Padel tour, further solidifying the sport’s global reach.
Kerala has embraced the sport with the inauguration of its first court, ‘Padel High,’ in Kochi. This event, graced by MP Hibi Eden, marks a significant step for the sport in the state. The arrival of Padel in Kerala coincides with the sport’s growing popularity in India. Tournaments with prize money ranging from Rs 2 lakh to Rs 5 lakh are already taking place, with plans for larger events with prize pools of Rs 20 lakh and Rs 50 lakh in the near future. This emphasis on prize money demonstrates the sport’s ambition to become a viable career path for Indian athletes.
Alan Healy, founder and CEO of Padel India, sees immense potential for the sport in India, particularly considering its history of doubles racquet sports. He believes that India can become a powerhouse in padel, drawing on its rich sporting heritage. The sport’s growth in India is also reflected in the number of courts, which has reached approximately 150. The Indian Padel Federation (IPF), established in 2017, is working towards gaining recognition from the Sports Ministry. With badminton coach P. Gopichand serving as an advisor, the IPF is aiming for official recognition by the end of this year.
The arrival of Padel in Kerala is a testament to the sport’s burgeoning popularity in India. With substantial investments, growing participation, and a clear roadmap for the future, Padel is well-positioned to become a prominent force in Indian sports.
