Pickleball and Padel are both relatively new sports that have gained popularity in recent years.
Pickleball was invented in 1965 and has grown in popularity, particularly in the United States and Canada. It is now played in over 20 countries worldwide. Pickleball is played in over 5,000 locations in the US.
Padel, on the other hand, was invented in Mexico in the late 1960s and gained significant popularity in Spain and other Spanish-speaking countries. Now also becoming very popular in Europe and Middle East in recent years. Padel is played in over 90 countries around the world, 51 National Federations and 18 Millions Active Players and 300K Federated Players. PADEL strives to become WORLDWIDE & EXHIBITION SPORT in the Olympics of 2024.
Number of courts 2022 in Europe: around 30000, projection for by 2025: 55.000 – 66.000 Courts.
Both Pickleball and Padel are great sports and can be a lot of fun to play. However, which one offers more fun can depend on individual and personal preferences and what you are looking for in a sport and the playing styles.
Pickleball is a paddle sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong. It is typically played on a smaller court with a lower net and a paddle that is larger than a ping-pong paddle but smaller than a tennis racket. Pickleball can be played both indoors and outdoors and can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels. It’s a fast-paced game that requires quick reflexes, good hand-eye coordination, and strategy.
Court Size: 13,4 x 6,1 m (44 x 20 feet)
Netting: 86 cm tall in the center of the net
Padel is a racket sport that is similar to tennis and squash. It is typically played on an enclosed court that is smaller than a tennis court and surrounded by glass walls. Padel is played with a racket, which is similar to a tennis racket but with holes in it. The ball used in Padel is also similar to a tennis ball but slightly smaller and with less pressure. Padel is a great sport for both beginners and advanced players, and it is mainly played in doubles, making it a fun social activity. Padel is known for its emphasis on teamwork, communication, and quick reflexes.
Court Size: 20 x 10 m (68 x 35 feet)
Netting: 88 cm tall in the center of the net
Ultimately, the level of fun you have playing either pickleball or padel will depend on your personal preferences and what you are looking for in a sport.
If you enjoy fast-paced, strategic games that require quick reflexes, then pickleball might be the sport for you.
If you prefer a slower-paced, more social game that still requires some skill and strategy, then padel might be a better fit.
See also: What is padel?
