What started more than five decades ago as a backyard sport in Mexico has today become one of the fastest-growing sports in the world. Padel was first introduced in 1969 when Enrique Corcuera built a walled court on his private property, combining elements of tennis and squash in a unique and engaging way. Initially embraced by elites in Spain and Argentina, the game gradually spread, and in recent years, its rise has been nothing short of extraordinary.
The 2010s marked a turning point. As more facilities were built and the game’s social and accessible nature attracted newcomers, padel quickly transitioned from niche activity to mainstream recreational favorite across Europe and beyond.
A Market That’s Gaining Momentum Worldwide
Padel has grown far beyond its recreational roots and is now viewed as a significant commercial and sporting force. According to the International Padel Federation (FIP), the sport is played in over 130 countries, with more than 600,000 registered players and 87 national federations. The estimated global community of casual and competitive players now stands at around 30 million.
With over 16,000 courts, Spain is the undisputed leader in padel infrastructure, followed by Italy, Argentina, and Sweden. In total, the world now boasts more than 70,000 courts, mostly concentrated in Europe, but expanding fast across the globe.
The Global Padel Report 2024 (Playtomic & PwC) predicts that the international market for padel clubs alone could reach €6 billion by 2026, with continued growth between 8–10% annually until at least 2032.
The Road Ahead: Global Expansion and Olympic Potential
Padel is no longer just a sport — it’s a lifestyle, a business opportunity, and soon, possibly, an Olympic discipline. With a bid underway for inclusion in the 2032 Olympic Games, the sport is gaining new levels of credibility and international appeal. Emerging markets such as the United States, India, the Middle East, and Asia are experiencing growing demand for courts, events, and gear.
What This Means for Acenta Group
As the padel wave continues to build, Acenta Group is firmly positioned at its crest. With a comprehensive presence across the industry — from court installation to retail, and from tournament organization to brand partnerships — Acenta is helping shape the sport’s next chapter.
Recent highlights include:
- A 5-year exclusive partnership with Interpadel in Norway, covering 14 clubs and all equipment sales via our platform sportofpadel.com.
- A major infrastructure agreement with Padel 100 in Ireland, involving the delivery of at least 50 new courts, with further expansion already in the works.
- A newly signed exclusive sales agent agreement with premium padel brand Cuera, solidifying Acenta’s role as a key product distributor in Europe.
- A growing international sales network, including a dedicated team in the UK and regional representation in the Balkans.
Acenta is also the creator of the Acenta Padel Tour, a tournament series designed to give amateur players a professional-level experience. Having already launched in Sweden and Norway, the concept is set to expand across Europe this autumn.
Padel’s global potential is massive — and Acenta is ready to deliver on it. With a long-term strategy rooted in quality, innovation, and sustainable growth, we’re not just participating in the sport’s rise. We’re helping lead it.