Weekly News Roundup: A Historic Leap Forward
A Defining Week for the Sport
Could padel become America’s next pickleball? This week, the sport strengthened its global momentum as entrepreneurs doubled down on investments, the Asian Games opened a new chapter for Asia, Nike made its long-awaited move into Padel, and Paquito Navarro’s viral shot sparked one of the week’s biggest rule debates.
Here are the stories below.
Padel’s U.S. boom attracts major entrepreneurs
Padel is rapidly gaining ground across the United States, drawing investment from entrepreneurs outside the sporting world who see the game as the country’s next major racquet sport. As clubs continue to open and professional competitions attract new funding and broadcast exposure, industry leaders believe Padel is well positioned to follow the explosive path previously taken by pickleball.
Crew Clothing expands commitment to UK Padel
British lifestyle brand Crew Clothing has expanded its partnership with the Pro Am Padel Tour, becoming the Official and Exclusive Performance Apparel Partner for the 2026 season. The collaboration reflects the company’s growing investment in one of the UK’s fastest-growing sports while supporting both elite competition and wider community participation through its Crew Sport performance range.
Asian Games inclusion signals a new era
World Padel League Co-Founder Mahesh Bhupathi believes Padel’s inclusion in the Asian Games marks a defining moment for the sport across Asia. The milestone is expected to encourage greater government support, infrastructure development, and grassroots participation while strengthening padel’s long-term ambition of becoming an Olympic sport.
Nike reveals its first-ever Padel rackets
Nike has officially unveiled its first padel racket collection during the exclusive NOCTA Manor 2026 event, introducing the Command, Attack, and Balance models. The launch signals the brand’s planned entry into the padel market in 2027 and further demonstrates the sport’s growing commercial appeal among the world’s biggest athletic brands.
Paquito Navarro showcases his trademark creativity in exhibition match
Paquito Navarro once again demonstrated his flair for the spectacular after producing a remarkable shot during an exhibition match. While the play was not legal under official padel rules, the lighthearted moment sparked discussion among fans about the sport’s regulations and highlighted the entertainment value exhibition events continue to bring.
Highlights
To celebrate Padel's inclusion in the Asian Games, relive the highlights from the 2025 Asia Padel Cup Final!
Padel continues to capture attention far beyond its traditional markets. All of us are looking forward to the Asian Games showcasing some world-class Padel Action!
Stay connected with Padel Mecca for next week’s biggest stories shaping the sport around the world.