padel

Padel, the racquet sport championed by stars such as Lionel Messi and Carlos Alcaraz, has taken a significant step toward joining the Olympic programme. The fast-growing sport, already popular in Spain and Latin America and expanding worldwide, is being promoted by high-profile backers as officials push its case for future Olympic recognition and inclusion.

Padel is experiencing rapid growth in Germany, driven by low barriers to entry and a fast-rising number of courts. Observers are asking whether the racquet sport can displace tennis and become a true mass-participation pastime. A look at Spain, where padel is already a national favourite, shows the sport's potential — though commentators note the path to similar popularity in Germany remains long.