Weekly News Roundup: Prada’s Racket Debut, Ronaldo in Riyadh, and More!
Catch the Latest Buzz!
Padel’s explosive growth shows no signs of slowing down. This week, we’re seeing major moves—from luxury brands launching high-end rackets to top athletes rallying for better pay. Plus, Cristiano Ronaldo joins the list of global icons backing the sport. Let’s break down the biggest headlines in the world of Padel.
How to Play Padel on a Budget
Padel’s rising popularity doesn’t mean you have to spend a fortune to enjoy the sport. In the UK, more than 500 courts are available, with many offering affordable pay-and-play options. Group lessons provide a cost-effective way to learn the game, while off-peak court bookings can save players significant money. Additionally, buying second-hand or older-model Padel rackets and taking advantage of bulk booking discounts can help enthusiasts get involved without breaking the bank.
- Read more on The Sun
The Changing Landscape of Player Compensation
Athlete pay remains a hot topic across sports, and Padel is no exception. Tensions persist while players successfully transitioned from the World Padel Tour to Premier Padel for better compensation. A recent boycott of the Gijón tournament underscores ongoing disputes over prize money, tournament duration, and player opportunities. Similar struggles are seen in emerging sports like women's football, where financial growth and sustainability remain delicate balancing acts.
- Read more on Footboom
Prada Enters the Padel Market with Luxury Racket
Luxury fashion house Prada has officially joined the Padel world with the launch of its Re-Nylon Padel Racket. The all-black racket, featuring Prada’s signature red emblem, comes with a case made from recycled ocean plastics, blending sustainability with high fashion. Priced at $1,700, this stylish yet functional racket positions Padel as an increasingly aspirational sport.
- Read more on Tennis Tonic
STIGA Sports Releases Kid-Friendly Padel Racket
With more young players picking up Padel, STIGA Sports has launched a new lightweight, kid-friendly Padel racket. Designed with a smaller grip and balanced weight distribution, it aims to help children develop proper technique while making the game more accessible. Bright colors and eye-catching designs add to the appeal, encouraging more kids to engage with the sport.
- Read more on Padel Tennis Tonic
Cristiano Ronaldo Attends Premier Padel Tournament in Riyadh
Global football icon Cristiano Ronaldo was spotted courtside at the Riyadh Season Premier Padel P1 tournament, closely following the action and celebrating a victory by fellow Portuguese players. He joins a growing list of international sports stars showing interest in Padel, including Neymar Jr., Zlatan Ibrahimović, Novak Djokovic, and Max Verstappen. With such high-profile attention, the sport's momentum is only increasing.
- Read more on Arab News
Video of the Week
Watch this star-studded Quaterfinal of Riyadh Premier Padel! (MEN)
Padel continues to make waves, blending luxury, accessibility, and star power in this week’s biggest stories. From Prada and Bulgari stepping onto the scene with high-end rackets to STIGA introducing kid-friendly gear, the sport is evolving for players of all levels.
🔥 Which headline caught your attention this week? Drop your thoughts in the comments!