RIYADH (The Thursday Times) — The sport of padel, a dynamic blend of tennis and squash, has captured the attention of Saudi Arabia’s growing sports community. Its rapid rise in popularity reflects not only the Kingdom’s broader ambitions under Vision 2030 but also the universal appeal of a sport that combines social interaction with fitness. Whether in Riyadh or Jeddah, padel clubs have sprung up across the country, providing locals and expats with a fun, accessible way to stay active.
Padel at this year’s 2024 Saudi Games
The Saudi Games 2024 were a pivotal moment for padel in Saudi Arabia, marking the sport’s growing stature on the national stage. The competition, held from October 7 to 17 in Riyadh, attracted top-tier talent from across the Kingdom. Both men’s and women’s teams competed fiercely for a grand prize of SAR 1 million, underlining the significance of the event in promoting competitive padel in the country
The qualifiers leading up to the Saudi Games were a major success, with over 182 men’s teams and 29 women’s teams participating. Ultimately, 10 men’s and 10 women’s teams advanced to the finals, reflecting the tremendous interest and rising skill level within the sport. Notably, Saudi Arabia’s commitment to nurturing Padel talent was demonstrated through various initiatives, including support from the Saudi Padel Committee and partnerships with organisations aimed at promoting the sport.
In 2024, Padel’s growth in Saudi Arabia culminated in not only domestic success but also international recognition, with Saudi teams excelling in regional qualifiers and preparing for global tournaments. As a part of Saudi Vision 2030, padel has become more than just a sport—it is a social and community-driven activity, encouraging a healthy lifestyle while promoting athletic development.
Padel and Vision 2030: A perfect fit
Padel’s growth in Saudi Arabia aligns perfectly with the country’s Vision 2030 initiative, which aims to diversify the economy and promote a healthier lifestyle among its citizens. With a push towards increasing sports participation, the government has encouraged the establishment of more padel courts across major cities. The country’s hosting of international tournaments, like the Premier Padel series, reflects the Kingdom’s commitment to fostering world-class sporting events. The sport’s success at the Riyadh P1 tournament in 2024 further boosted its visibility and sparked an even greater interest in the sport.
Social and accessible: Why padel is popular
Unlike many other sports, padel is incredibly accessible. It’s easy to learn, and most players pick up the basics within half an hour, making it appealing to people of all ages and abilities. What sets padel apart, however, is its social nature. The game is often played in doubles, encouraging interaction and teamwork, which enhances its appeal among both seasoned athletes and casual players.
Saudi Arabia has seen a surge in community-driven padel clubs, where people gather not only to play but also to socialise. After a match, players can relax over coffee or drinks at venues such as Padel Rush in Riyadh. This fusion of sport and socialising has made padel an attractive lifestyle activity for Saudis looking to maintain both fitness and social connections.
Women’s growing involvement in padel
The rise of padel in Saudi Arabia has also been notable for its appeal to women. In alignment with the country’s evolving gender inclusivity policies, more and more women are taking to padel courts, competing in tournaments, and enjoying the sport’s competitive yet social atmosphere. Facilities like Padel Rush have been instrumental in encouraging female participation, offering a welcoming environment and tailored support to players at all levels.
Women in Saudi Arabia are not just playing padel recreationally; many are aspiring to compete at higher levels. Players like Asmar Alshinifi are aiming to elevate their game internationally, with dreams of making a mark on the global stage.
Padel clubs and community
As padel clubs continue to multiply across Saudi Arabia, the sport has grown into a thriving community. Clubs like Padel IN and Valley Padel in Riyadh have become hotspots for both casual and competitive play. Local tournaments are frequently organised, offering players a chance to test their skills and foster camaraderie. The Saudi Padel Committee has also been active in promoting the sport, overseeing the growth of local leagues and preparing Saudi players for international competition.
The sport’s blend of athleticism, fun, and social interaction has cemented its place in the Kingdom’s sports landscape. Whether it’s professional tournaments or weekend matches with friends, padel offers a unique way for Saudis to stay fit while enjoying a vibrant community experience.
