The rise of padel in Italy has taken many by surprise, silencing skeptics who once dismissed it as a fleeting trend. With over 700 new courts established in 2024 alone and a projected total exceeding 10,000 by year’s end, this sport is carving out a significant presence in the country. Adding to its growing credibility is the endorsement of a celebrated figure in tennis: Adriano Panatta, who has emerged as a notable advocate for the sport.
Recently, Panatta graced the Allianz Cloud to witness the Oysho Milano Premier Padel P1 finals, where he observed elite athletes showcasing their skills. His experience only deepened his appreciation for the game. As he described, “I play at the net and enjoy the volleys. The most amusing aspect for us tennis players is that when the ball goes past you in tennis, the point is lost, but here, it’s a fresh start.” His insights reflect a seasoned player’s perspective, revealing the unique aspects that set padel apart from tennis.
The contrasts between the two sports are numerous, yet Panatta identifies some similarities that bridge the gap. “Yes, especially the volley. It’s very similar. But using the walls truly makes a difference,” he remarked. Even at 75, Panatta continues to play at the Adriano Panatta Racquet Club in Treviso, where he expresses joy in the game despite the realities of aging. “I have a lot of fun, even if I get annoyed when someone lobs over me (he laughs). It happens often because I don’t move like I used to, but I still enjoy it.”
In padel, the format is strictly doubles, and if Panatta were to pick a partner, it certainly wouldn’t be Paolo Bertolucci, who recently stirred controversy with remarks about Jannik Sinner. Panatta seizes the opportunity to tease, saying, “He doesn’t even play billiards anymore; I see him sitting in front of the TV at night, watching soap operas and sipping warm broth.”
When it comes to potential tennis players who could excel in padel, Panatta is selective. “There are few who know how to play well at the net. I could see legends like McEnroe, Becker, Noah, and Edberg fitting in nicely.” Meanwhile, Sara Errani made her mark in June at the Bnl Italy Major Premier Padel in Rome, where top international athletes competed. Her involvement has been a significant boost for padel, a sport that has long faced skepticism, particularly from tennis purists.
The journey of padel to global prominence began over 50 years ago, in 1969, when Enrique Corcuera built the first padel court in Acapulco, Mexico, laying down the rules for the game. He likely never anticipated the widespread success it would achieve decades later. The current scenario is a testament to padel’s explosive growth, far exceeding expectations within just a few years. While the sport has gained traction in Italy only recently, the numbers speak for themselves. And have you heard about pickleball? We’ve delved into this “new” phenomenon in another article.
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Jason R. Parker is a curious and creative writer who excels at turning complex topics into simple, practical advice to improve everyday life. With extensive experience in writing lifestyle tips, he helps readers navigate daily challenges, from time management to mental health. He believes that every day is a new opportunity to learn and grow.
