Spain drives padel tourism, showcasing global leadership

“Spain has decades of expertise and leads padel globally”

In an exclusive interview with Travelmole, both Robert and Escofet looked at the further development of padel in Spain. They both highlighted Spain’s strategy to leverage padel’s rapid global rise—combining climate advantages, strong infrastructure, and government backing—to make the country a premier destination for both players and investors.

How does Spain position padel within its overall sports tourism offering? Has it become a major asset to attract international visitors?
Albert Escofet – We’re actively promoting padel because it’s booming worldwide. Spain has decades of expertise and leads the sport globally. Our cluster’s goal is to help our members—clubs and academies—expand their businesses and attract people to Spain.

How popular is padel in Spain today?
Antonio Robert – Estimates vary, but roughly five million people play. There are between 20,000 and 25,000 courts and thousands of clubs nationwide.

Is it true that 80% of padel players in Spain are international visitors?
Antonio Robert – Not exactly. Many people try padel here in Spain. And then they launch their clubs back home. Our strength is to attract people trying first padel in Spain. They have experienced it, enjoyed it, and are good ambassadors for the destination. Even if they have their club in their own country.

Which Spanish destinations stand out for padel?
Albert Escofet – Madrid, Barcelona, and Marbella are top spots thanks to their year-round mild climate. Valencia and Alicante are also growing, along with the Juan Carlos Ferrero Academy.

Does Spain’s national tourism board actively support padel?
Albert Escofet – Yes. They organize events like this one in Paris and allocate budgets to grow the platform we’re building. We also collaborate with ICEX, Spain’s trade and investment agency, to showcase padel at international travel fairs—from London to Casablanca—helping businesses to build the brand.

Are there international marquee tournaments similar to a “Tour de France” for padel ?
Albert Escofet – The international circuit holds two major annual events in Spain—one in Madrid, which just wrapped up, and another in Barcelona each December.

Given hotter weather due to climate change, does indoor play a major asset to padel growth ?
Albert Escofet – Absolutely. The ability to play indoors makes expansion easier even in warmer climates.

Is Asia the next frontier for the sport?
Antonio Robert – It’s already happening. Padel is expanding in Indonesia, Malaysia, and Australia, with interest growing in Japan and China as well.

Within Europe, which countries follow Spain in popularity?
Antonio Robert– Italy is next, followed by France, where momentum is building.