Padel is a fast-paced, accessible racquet sport that combines elements of tennis and squash, played on an enclosed court about a third of the size of a tennis court. The game is usually played in doubles and emphasizes strategy, teamwork, and quick reflexes, making it fun for players of all ages and skill levels. Originating in Mexico and rapidly gaining popularity worldwide, padel is now one of the fastest-growing sports in Europe and Latin America—and it’s beginning to make a major impact in Africa, too.
Padel’s blend of physical activity, strategy, and social interaction makes it a highly enjoyable sport that can be picked up quickly. With the emphasis on technique and strategy rather than power, padel is well-suited for mixed play among men, women, and youth, fostering a diverse community of players who enjoy both the game and the camaraderie it inspires.
Padel is often described as a mix between tennis and squash, typically played in doubles on an enclosed court. The court is surrounded by walls made of glass and metallic mesh, and it’s roughly one-third the size of a standard tennis court, measuring 20 meters in length and 10 meters in width.
Padel racquets are short, stringless, and have a solid, elastic surface with holes, making them different from traditional tennis racquets. The ball used in padel is a low-compression tennis ball, making it slower and easier to control.
A padel court measures 20 meters by 10 meters, with back walls and partial side walls made of glass or other solid materials, and the rest of the court enclosed with metallic mesh up to 4 meters high. The lines on the court include:
Padel scoring is similar to tennis, following the point progression of 15, 30, 40, and game. Each match is typically played as best of three sets, with players needing six games to win a set.
With continued support from players, organizations, and sponsors, padel is poised to become a mainstay of Kenya’s sports scene. HPTP’s vision is to make Kenya a recognized hub for padel in Africa, developing pathways for athletes to compete internationally, while also building a local community that celebrates health, competition, and teamwork.
Whether you’re a seasoned player or a beginner looking to try something new, High Performance Tennis and Padel (HPTP) invites you to experience padel at one of our premier facilities. Join us for a training session, participate in a tournament, or simply enjoy the game with friends and family in Kenya’s growing padel community.
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