In a bustling gym in Cape Town, cheers erupted as the women’s doubles finals of a charity padel competition concluded.
The sport, often described as a fusion of squash and tennis, is steadily gaining traction across South Africa.
A Sport with a Cause
The competition, held in Paarden Eiland, was not just about winning; it was about making a difference. Kathleen Barker, a representative of Padel4Good—the charity behind the event—explains its mission. 
“Padel4Good is a non-profit organization that unites people to raise funds for various charities in South Africa,” she shares. “Sport has always been a unifying force, and now padel is joining rugby as another way to bring communities together while supporting those in need.”
The event crowned Karen van Huyssteen and Danelle Pieterse as champions. Reflecting on her win, Van Huyssteen expressed her gratitude: “It’s always a pleasure to play and support the amazing charity work Padel4Good does.”
Padel Clubs on the Rise
Five years ago, few South Africans had even heard of padel. Today, there are 206 padel clubs nationwide, boasting over 600 courts, according to the International Padel Federation (FIP). Africa Padel’s Claremont branch in Cape Town is a prime example of this growth.
The COVID-19 pandemic played a pivotal role in accelerating the sport’s popularity. Luke Potter, a founder of the South African Padel Association, highlights its impact: “During lockdowns, when tennis and squash courts were inaccessible, indoor padel courts became a sanctuary for racquet sport enthusiasts. This surge in interest significantly boosted the sport’s visibility.”
Accessible and Social
Padel’s growing popularity stems from its accessibility and social nature. “It’s a blend of squash and tennis, with elements like volleying and lobs,” says Bridget Visee, a padel coach.
“It’s easy for beginners to pick up, making it enjoyable for all skill levels. For those seeking to improve, there’s always room for more training.”
Sarah Power, a player who has been training under Visee for the past year, encapsulates the sport’s appeal: “It’s a fantastic workout and an incredibly social activity. You get to exercise and connect with others at the same time.”
A Bright Future for Padel in South Africa
Elian Wiener, director of Virgin Active Padel Club, sees the sport’s expansion as just the beginning. “Padel is still in its infancy here, but the numbers are impressive. With over 100,000 players already, we’re expecting significant growth as clubs expand beyond metro areas to smaller towns and rural communities,” he notes.
Wiener also emphasizes its inclusivity. “Initially, padel attracted wealthier South Africans in metropolitan areas. Now, we’re seeing a broader socio-economic range of players, which is essential for the sport’s long-term success.”
Global Growth Reflected Locally
South Africa’s padel boom mirrors its international trajectory. Between 2021 and 2024, the number of padel courts worldwide grew by an astonishing 240%, according to FIP. This global momentum is evident in the rapid proliferation of courts and players across South Africa.
As the sport continues to evolve, it’s clear that padel offers more than just physical activity. It’s fostering community connections, promoting inclusivity, and supporting charitable causes. With its unique combination of fun, fitness, and social engagement, padel is carving a lasting legacy in South Africa.
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