Weekly News Roundup: Nike Eyes Tapia as Alcaraz Brings Tennis Star Power to Padel
Your Weekly Dose of Padel News
From Nike’s reported interest in the world’s top player to Carlos Alcaraz drawing crowds at a Padel event in Marbella, this week showed just how much momentum the sport continues to build both on and off the court.
Here are the stories below.
Nike Reported to Have Approached Nox Over World No. 1 Tapia
Nike is reportedly exploring a move into padel and has approached Nox regarding Agustín Tapia, the current world No. 1. Tapia remains under contract with the Spanish brand through 2028, but discussions suggest major global companies are beginning to see padel as a serious commercial opportunity.
The Rafa Nadal Academy Launches the Annual Padel Program, a Unique Pathway to Develop the Players of the Future
The Rafa Nadal Academy has introduced a new Annual Padel Program aimed at developing elite young players through a combination of high-performance training and international education. Led by renowned coach Rodri Ovide, the initiative reflects the growing professionalization of youth padel development worldwide.
- Read more on Rafa Nadal Academy
Get to Know Sandy Farquharson, the Voice of Premier Padel on Red Bull TV
For many international fans, Sandy Farquharson has become one of the most recognizable voices in padel. The former tennis professional and ATP coach now serves as a key figure in Premier Padel broadcasts, helping explain the sport’s speed, tactics, and drama to audiences around the globe.
Carlos Alcaraz at Reserve Cup Marbella Completely Changes the Tennis-Padel Dynamic
Tennis superstar Carlos Alcaraz made a surprise appearance at Reserve Cup Marbella, drawing significant attention from fans and media alike. His courtside visit alongside top padel stars, including Arturo Coello, further highlighted the increasingly close relationship between tennis and padel as both sports continue to grow.
The Draws. Plaza Mayor Is Ready: Coello Aims to Win Again on Home Soil
The Valladolid P2 returns to the iconic Plaza Mayor, where hometown favorite Arturo Coello will attempt to capture a third consecutive title alongside Agustín Tapia. With strong men’s and women’s draws, intriguing quarterfinal projections, and the inclusion of Coello’s younger brother Rodrigo via wildcard, anticipation is high.
Highlights
As Nike reportedly targets Agustín Tapia, here are some of the dazzling moments behind his rise to the top.
From youth development and broadcast personalities to global brands and crossover appearances from tennis royalty, Padel continues to expand its reach in every direction.
Stay tuned to Padel Mecca for more stories shaping the future of the sport.