Why padel is the fastest growing sport in the UK right now
Five years ago you could count the number of padel courts in the UK on two hands. Today there are hundreds — and that number is growing every month.
Padel is no longer a niche sport. It's going mainstream, fast. And if you haven't tried it yet, here's why 2026 is the year to start.
What is padel?
Padel is a racket sport played in doubles on an enclosed glass and mesh court, roughly a third of the size of a tennis court. It combines elements of tennis and squash — you can play the ball off the walls, rallies last longer, and the scoring system is the same as tennis.
It's easier to pick up than tennis, more social than squash, and absolutely addictive from the first session.
The numbers don't lie
Padel is the second most played sport in Spain with over 4 million players. In Sweden it's been mainstream for decades. And now it's arrived in the UK in a big way.
Major investment is pouring into UK padel infrastructure — new courts are opening in cities, suburbs and leisure centres across the country. Celebrities and footballers are playing it. The Lawn Tennis Association has backed it. It's no longer a question of whether padel will be big in the UK — it already is.
Why is it so addictive?
A few reasons:
It's social. Padel is always played in doubles. You're always on court with three other people, which makes it one of the most sociable sports you can play. Most people leave their first session having made new friends.
It's accessible. Unlike tennis, you don't need years of practice to have a great rally. The enclosed court means the ball stays in play longer, beginners can compete with more experienced players, and the learning curve is genuinely enjoyable.
It's fast. A padel match is intense. The court is small, the ball moves quickly, and you're constantly reading angles off the walls. It's a brilliant workout without feeling like exercise.
It looks incredible. Let's be honest — padel is a stylish sport. The courts look great, the kit looks great, and there's something deeply satisfying about a perfectly executed lob off the back wall.
Where to play in the UK
The easiest way to find a court near you is via the LTA's court finder at lta.org.uk or by searching "padel courts near me" — you'll likely be surprised how close your nearest court is.
Most venues offer beginner sessions and club nights where you can show up, borrow a racket and try it for the first time. Once you've played once, you'll want your own racket. Trust us.
What do you need to get started?
The beauty of padel is you don't need much. Court shoes with a non-marking sole, comfortable sports kit, and a racket. That's it.
For your first racket, you want something with a good balance of power and control that won't break the bank. The KATANA 1.0 White at £69.99 is built exactly for that — carbon fibre construction, EVA core, and a design that'll make you the most stylish player on any court.
The UK padel scene in 2026
The UK padel community is young, welcoming and growing fast. Tournaments are popping up everywhere — from local club competitions to national events like the Nexus Sports Padel Tournaments where Samurai Padel Co. rackets have been featured.
If you're thinking about trying padel, stop thinking and start playing. The courts are there, the community is ready, and the sport will hook you from the first point.
See you on the court.