This week, padel’s growth is making headlines for more than just rising participation. A new global report puts a price on the sport’s economic impact, Asia overtakes Europe in new club openings, and Britain’s boom faces growing scrutiny. On the court, we revisit the importance of the lob, while former world No. 1 Marta Ortega shares the remarkable discipline behind her dual careers in Padel and medicine.
Here are the stories below!
FIP World Padel Report 2026 Reveals €8.6 Billion Economic Impact
The International Padel Federation’s latest report counts more than 40 million active players and 91,200 courts worldwide, with court numbers growing 20.4% annually. Its new economic study estimates the sport generates €8.6 billion in GDP and supports over 235,000 jobs globally.
Asia Overtakes Europe in New Padel Club Openings
Asia now accounts for 39% of new padel club openings worldwide, surpassing Europe’s 37.1%, according to figures highlighted from the FIP report. The continent also represents 31.7% of new courts, with Indonesia leading a surge that includes Pakistan, India, and China.
Britain’s Padel Boom Sparks Both Enthusiasm and Pushback
Britain’s padel boom is attracting newcomers through its welcoming, social atmosphere, even among those who have never played racket sports. However, rapid expansion is also drawing criticism over participation costs, court noise, and private equity investment, raising questions about the sport’s long-term accessibility.
- Read more on The Straits Times
Why the Lob Remains Padel’s Most Underrated Weapon
While powerful smashes dominate highlights, the lob often determines who controls the rally. Red Bull explores how professionals use this overlooked shot to reclaim the net and create attacking opportunities, highlighting techniques from Delfi Brea, Alejandro Galán, Bea González, and Juan Lebrón.
Marta Ortega’s Remarkable Journey Through Padel and Medicine
Marta Ortega became the youngest World Padel Tour No. 1 in 2019 at just 22, while studying medicine. In a candid interview, the Spanish star reflects on balancing hospital placements, demanding training schedules, and late-night studying, demonstrating the dedication required to pursue two extraordinary careers.
Highlights
Check out these highlights from La Doctora herself!
Britain’s growing pains raise questions about accessibility, the lob reminds us that the sport rewards intelligence as much as power, and Marta Ortega’s journey demonstrates the dedication behind professional success. As padel grows, maintaining that balance between commercial opportunity, community, and sporting excellence may become just as important as building the next thousand courts.
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