Weekly News Roundup: From Cutting-Edge Gear to Iconic Venues
Padel heats up - new gear, stars, and iconic stages!
This week’s roundup spotlights Padel’s Paris debut, Switzerland’s expansion, and celebrity-led teams. Explore the latest in pro gear and global tournaments elevating this dynamic sport.
Explained: What Is Padel & Why Has It Become So Popular Across the World
Invented by a couple on holiday in 1969, Padel has evolved into a sport with over 25 million active players in 110 countries. This tennis-squash hybrid combines elements that appeal to people of all ages and fitness levels. Prominent fans like David Beckham, Serena Williams, and even French President Emmanuel Macron highlight its appeal. Today, with growing visibility in countries like Spain and the U.S., Padel has reached new heights in mainstream sports culture.
Switzerland Embraces Padel Boom: Once Played, Always Played
In Switzerland, Padel is gaining a dedicated fan base with over 100 locations nationwide and plans for more. The sport’s simplicity, dynamic play, and easy learning curve have fueled its growth, with local clubs reporting a surge in tournaments and participants. Padelwerk, a popular Swiss network, has expanded rapidly, while locations in Bern and beyond work to meet rising demand. With Padel now widely recognized, Switzerland’s Padel Federation President Rico Jacober sees it as a staple sport rather than a fleeting trend.
Solution Swift FF 2 from ASICS: The Most Complete Padel Shoes
ASICS, a leader in sports footwear, has unveiled its Solution Swift FF 2 shoes, designed specifically for Padel. These lightweight, flexible shoes focus on agility and comfort, providing players with the stability needed for Padel’s intense movements. With innovative features like SPEEDTRUSS and a herringbone sole for quick turns, ASICS has created a shoe that enhances both performance and safety. Additionally, the brand has made strides in sustainability, using recycled materials in less critical areas.
Padel Games to Be Played in Front of the Eiffel Tower in Paris
From November 2024 to May 2025, the Betclic Remontada Padel competition will light up Paris with games staged against the iconic Eiffel Tower. This event, featuring 12 qualifying stages, VIP matches, and open challenges, aims to introduce the sport to a broader audience in a spectacular setting. This initiative is part of Paris’s push to promote Padel as an inclusive, family-friendly sport, allowing players of all skill levels to enjoy the game in a unique venue.
Formula 1’s Pierre Gasly Joins Padel’s Hexagon Cup 2025
French Formula 1 driver Pierre Gasly is the latest celebrity to dive into Padel, joining businessman Loïc Féry in launching a team for the Hexagon Cup 2025. Gasly joins other high-profile owners, including Messi, Rafa Nadal, and Andy Murray, in this high-stakes team competition. Hosted in Madrid, the Hexagon Cup unites top players in an innovative team format, with fans anticipating exciting matchups led by some of the world’s most renowned athletes.
-Read more on Inside the Games
Video of the Week
Check out this highlight reel from Day 7 of Greenwez Paris Major Premier Padel
(WOMEN CHAMPIONSHIP)
Padel’s rise is undeniable, from high-profile tournaments in iconic cities to star-studded partnerships and innovative gear shaping the game. Stay tuned with Padel Mecca for the latest updates on this global sensation!