Padel vs. Pickleball: A Rivalry or a Rising Tide for Racket Sports?

For years, pickleball has dominated headlines as the fastest-growing sport in America. With its low barrier to entry, social appeal, and accessibility, it has expanded at a rapid pace. But there’s a new challenger on the court—padel—and it’s reportedly growing even faster worldwide.

So, is padel a threat to pickleball? Or could these two booming racket sports thrive alongside each other? Let’s break it down.

Padel’s Explosive Growth

Padel has seen unprecedented global expansion, particularly in Europe and Latin America. Padel’s presence in the United States is growing rapidly as well:

Global Padel Boom

• There are now 30 million padel players worldwide, with 60,000 courts across 130 countries as of early 2025.
• The padel sports market, valued at $225 million in 2024, is projected to more than double to $493 million by 2032 (compound annual growth rate or CAGR of 10.3%).
• Spain leads with 5.5 million padel players, while Italy will reach 10,000 courts by 2025.

Padel’s Expansion in the U.S.

• The number of padel clubs and courts in the U.S. doubled from 2023 to 2024, now totaling over 70 clubs and 400 courts.
• By 2029, the number of padel courts in the U.S. could grow to 15,000, signaling massive investment in infrastructure.
• Major U.S. cities are embracing padel, with new clubs opening in California, Florida, Texas, and New York.

The growth is undeniable. But how does it compare to pickleball’s rise?

Pickleball’s Continued Dominance

While padel’s global growth is impressive, pickleball remains the king of racket sports in the U.S.

Pickleball’s U.S. & Global Growth

• As of 2024, there were 19.8 million pickleball players in the U.S.—a 45.8% increase from the previous year.
• The sport has grown 311% over the last three years, making it the fastest-growing sport in America for four straight years.
• The pickleball market is projected to grow from $1.5 billion (2023) to $4.4 billion by 2033, with a CAGR of 11.3%.

Pickleball Courts & Facilities

• The U.S. has over 16,210 pickleball facilities and a staggering 70,641 courts as of 2025.
• Florida leads with 1,228 courts, followed closely by California with 1,223.
• Pickleball tournaments surged 300% in 2024, with USA Pickleball hosting 142 events.

Padel vs. Pickleball: How Do They Compare?

While both sports share a social, doubles-friendly format, there are key differences:

Some padel enthusiasts claim that “Pickleball is a hobby, padel is a sport,” stirring debate among players.

Is Padel a Threat to Pickleball?

While padel is exploding worldwide, pickleball is still the dominant force in the U.S. However, padel’s rapid growth and major investments could challenge pickleball’s reign in certain markets.

That said, these two sports don’t have to be rivals. The growing demand for racket sports means more infrastructure, more courts, and more players discovering both games.

The Future of Racket Sports

As both padel and pickleball continue to grow, it’s clear that the racket sports landscape is evolving. Here’s what we might expect in the coming years:

Coexistence and Cross-Pollination

Rather than direct competition, we may see these sports complement each other. Many players might enjoy both, leading to cross-pollination of skills and strategies. Facilities could offer both sports, catering to a wider range of preferences and skill levels.

Innovation in Equipment and Technology

The growth of both sports could drive innovation in paddle and ball technology. We might see advancements in materials, design, and even smart technology integration to enhance player performance and experience.

Increased Media Attention and Professional Circuits

As both sports gain popularity, we can expect more televised events, professional tournaments, and lucrative sponsorship deals. This increased visibility could further fuel growth and attract more players to both sports.

Community Building and Social Impact

Both padel and pickleball have strong social components. As they grow, we might see more community-driven initiatives, social clubs, and even charitable events centered around these sports, further embedding them in local cultures.

Understanding the Appeal: A Beginner’s Perspective

For those new to racket sports or curious about the padel vs. pickleball phenomenon, it’s important to understand the unique appeal of each game:

Pickleball: The Accessible Crowd-Pleaser

Pickleball’s charm lies in its simplicity and accessibility. With a smaller court and slower-paced ball, it’s easier for beginners to pick up quickly. The social nature of the game, often played in doubles, makes it a hit at community centers and retirement communities. It’s a sport that bridges generations, allowing grandparents to play alongside grandchildren.

Padel: The Dynamic Newcomer

Padel offers a unique twist on traditional racket sports. The enclosed court with glass walls adds an exciting dimension to gameplay, allowing for creative shots and strategic use of the environment. It’s often described as a mix between tennis and squash, offering a fast-paced, dynamic experience that can be addictive for players of all levels.

Why Both Sports Are Gaining Traction

• Low Impact: Both sports are easier on the joints compared to tennis, making them accessible to a wider age range.
• Social Aspect: The doubles format in both sports encourages social interaction and teamwork.
• Quick Learning Curve: While mastery takes time, beginners can enjoy playing relatively quickly in both sports.
• Fitness Benefits: Both offer excellent cardiovascular workouts without the high-intensity impact of some other sports.

Conclusion: A Rising Tide for Racket Sports

The growth of padel and pickleball represents more than just a competition between two sports. It signifies a broader resurgence of interest in racket sports, potentially benefiting the entire industry. As these sports continue to evolve and attract new players, they’re likely to inspire innovations, community engagement, and a renewed passion for active, social recreation.

Whether you’re a die-hard pickleball fan, a padel enthusiast, or someone curious about trying something new, the expanding world of racket sports offers exciting opportunities for players of all ages and skill levels. As both sports continue to grow and develop, they’re not just competing for players – they’re creating a larger, more diverse community of racket sport enthusiasts.

In the end, the padel vs. pickleball discussion isn’t about choosing one over the other. It’s about celebrating the growing options available to sports enthusiasts and recognizing the positive impact these games can have on fitness, community, and quality of life. Whether you prefer the strategic dinking of pickleball or the dynamic wall play of padel, there’s never been a better time to pick up a paddle and join the fun.