Padel-Tennis, also known as Padel or Paddle, is a dynamic racquet sport that has gained tremendous popularity worldwide. But how did this exciting sport come into existence? Let’s take a journey into the history of pádel and explore its remarkable evolution from its humble beginnings to becoming a global phenomenon.
The Origins: Platform Tennis and Paddle Corcuera
Padel’s roots can be traced back to Platform Tennis, a lesser-known variant of enclosed tennis. However, it was Enrique Corcuera who had the vision to adapt elements of Platform Tennis and create what he called “Paddle Corcuera.” In 1969, at his home in Acapulco, Mexico, Enrique transformed his Squash court, introducing modifications to make it more suitable for his new invention. He is rightfully credited as the inventor of Padel.
Enrique’s Spanish friend, Alfonso of Hohenlohe-Langenburg, experienced Padel for the first time at Enrique’s home and was instantly captivated by the sport. In 1974, Alfonso established the first two Padel courts at a tennis club in Marbella, Spain. However, Alfonso made some modifications to Enrique’s original design to make the game more competitive, setting the stage for further iterations and development of Padel over the next two decades in Spain.
The Spread to Argentina and Global Expansion
In 1975, Julio Menditeguy, an Argentinian member of Alfonso’s tennis club in Marbella, shared the same passion for Padel and decided to introduce the sport to Argentina. From there, Padel gradually expanded its reach throughout Spain over the course of 25 years. By the early 2000s, there were over 500 Padel clubs in Spain, with many hotels incorporating Padel courts as a popular sport activity. The sport continued to flourish, and by 2005, Spain boasted more than 1,000 clubs, solidifying its position as the epicenter of Padel.
In 2005, the most significant Padel associations in Spain joined forces to establish the Padel Pro Tour, an international championship played exclusively in Spain. This marked a pivotal moment in professional Padel, attracting elite players and showcasing the sport’s immense potential. The Padel Pro Tour enjoyed success until 2012, setting the stage for the birth of the World Padel Series.
In 2013, the World Padel Series emerged as the preeminent, prestigious, and professional Padel championship worldwide, replacing the Padel Pro Tour. This new championship brought together the best players from around the globe, akin to the ATP and WTA for tennis. The World Padel Series expanded its reach beyond Spain, hosting tournaments in Andorra, Argentina, Monaco, Portugal, the United States, and the United Arab Emirates. It currently maintains the international ranking of the world’s top male and female Padel players, featuring 15-20 tournaments per year, culminating in a grand final Master Series.
Padel’s Phenomenal Growth and Bright Future
Since the early 2010s, Padel has experienced an extraordinary surge in popularity, capturing the hearts of players worldwide. Considered one of the fastest-growing sports globally, its allure and appeal continue to captivate enthusiasts of all ages. With its dynamic gameplay, strategic nuances, and sociable nature, Padel has become a beloved sport embraced by players at recreational and professional levels.
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