Selling Point - The Global Rise of Padel

Padel, once a niche past time has exploded in popularity in the last decade, becoming one of the fastest growing sports in Spain and beyond. Europe itself has witnessed a 240% increase in padel courts over the past three years, reflecting the sport’s surging popularity.

Known for its social nature and accessibility, padel courts have sprung up in urban centres, luxury resorts and residential developments across the world as people of all levels are looking to get in on the action.

As well as just a fun activity to do with friends, padel can be a useful symbol to understand the priorities of modern life. It has an emphasis on community, health and leisure, prime considerations for people and HNWI across the world.

The Rise of Padel

Globally, there are 30 million players of padel with 60,000 courts in 130 countries. This is a huge rise in the last decade for a sport that was only founded in Mexico in 1969.It quickly spread to Argentina and Spain, where it has now become the second most popular sport (after football). In fact, Spain leads the charge, with an estimated 5.5 million padel players as of early 2024, making it the country with the highest number of participants. So why is the sport so popular? There are many reasons, but the ones most often cited are that it offers a unique blend of athleticism, strategy and social interaction. It is also accessible for beginners but still provides a challenging experience for seasoned athletes.

Padel and luxury real estate

Buyers are increasingly drawn to properties that not only offer comfort and style but also cater to active and social lifestyles. Padel courts, whether private or communal, have become a desirable amenity, elevating the appeal of high-end homes, following the past trend of private basketball courts. Developers and property owners recognize the added value these facilities bring, often using them as a unique selling point in competitive markets and to meet the rising demand for quality leisure spaces.

In prime locations such as Marbella, Ibiza, and Barcelona, luxury villas and gated communities are incorporating padel courts as part of their recreational offerings. For HNWI, the presence of a padel court is a statement of prestige, convenience, and commitment to a balanced lifestyle, as well as a place to network.

Properties in Spain with Padel Courts

Mareseme, Catalonia – this 5 bed rustic house in Catalonia features onsite padel and tennis courts

Barcelona, Catalonia – this new development in Diagonal Mar, Barcelona features a padel court

Malaga, Costa del Sol – Located in the prestigious Higuerón Resort featuring 10 restaurants, outdoor facilities including padel, tennis and basketball