Padel, once regarded as a niche sport, has seen a remarkable surge in popularity across the UK, with nearly one million players reported in 2025. Participation levels skyrocketed, more than doubling from 400,000 in 2024 to 860,000 last year, according to LTA figures.

The Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) attributes this phenomenal growth to several factors:

• Accessibility: Beginners can quickly learn to play.
• Increase in courts: More facilities are available.
• Celebrity influence: High-profile figures like Eva Longoria, Lily James, and Cristiano Ronaldo have embraced the sport.

Advocates like Rapper Stormzy and tennis star Andy Murray have also helped boost its profile. Padel combines elements of tennis and squash, featuring underarm serves and a smaller court, making it easier for newcomers to enjoy the game.

Tom Murray, the LTA’s head of padel, remarked on the undeniable growth, highlighting that as more courts are built, more people are drawn to the sport, experiencing its physical and social benefits.

By the end of 2025, the UK boasted 1,553 padel courts across 559 venues, a significant increase from just 69 courts in 2020 when the LTA assumed governance. Despite some local objections regarding noise, the sport's momentum remains strong.

Upcoming events, including the Premier Padel Tour in London and its debut as a medal event at the European Games in Istanbul, further solidify padel's rising status. With 860,000 players and over 10 million expressing interest, the future of padel in the UK looks bright.