Padel Makes Asian Games Debut as the Sport Eyes Olympic Recognition

Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail

Padel, one of the fastest-growing racket sports in the world, has made its debut as a medal sport at the Asian Games in Nagoya, Japan.

The sport, which combines elements of tennis and squash, is attracting increasing international attention and its officials hope the Asian Games appearance will bring it closer to becoming an Olympic sport.

Padel gains popularity worldwide

Padel originated in Latin America and has expanded rapidly over the past decade, particularly across Europe.

The sport is now played in around 170 countries and territories, with tens of millions of people taking part worldwide.

It is usually played in doubles on a smaller court surrounded by glass walls. Players use solid rackets instead of traditional stringed tennis rackets, while the walls can also be used during rallies.

The sport has attracted several well-known athletes, including football stars Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, as well as Formula One driver Max Verstappen.

Growing interest in Japan

Padel remains relatively new in Japan, but its Asian Games debut has generated curiosity among local spectators.

The matches were held at the Higashi Sports Centre in Nagoya, where some fans attended the competition to experience the sport for the first time.

One spectator, Yuko Hiraiwa, said she enjoyed watching padel live and described the matches as dynamic and exciting.

The sport has already featured at the European Games, and its growing presence at major international events is helping organisers promote it to a wider audience.

Officials targeting the Olympics

The International Padel Federation has identified Olympic inclusion as one of its major long-term goals.

Federation official Donatella Del Gaudio said the organisation was working towards that objective while respecting the Olympic process and timeline.

Padel has also developed a professional international tour, with major events attracting large crowds. A recent tournament at the Roland Garros tennis complex in Paris drew more than 80,000 spectators.

A different style of racket sport

Philippines player Joshea Malazarte compared padel to a strategic game because players need to carefully create angles and build points rather than simply relying on powerful shots.

The smaller court and surrounding glass walls make rallies different from traditional tennis, while the doubles format adds another tactical element.

Padel officials also highlight the sport’s accessibility, saying it attracts players across different age groups and has a strong participation rate among women.

Asian Games debut seen as important milestone

The sport received further attention in Nagoya when Japan’s Teruaki Ando and Shinnosuke Nakamura took part in a closely contested match against a Lebanese pair.

The growing interest among spectators has encouraged padel officials, who view its Asian Games debut as an important step in the sport’s international development.

With millions of players worldwide and increasing participation in major competitions, padel organisers are now hoping its continued growth can eventually lead to a place in the Olympic Games.