Padel tennis: how the world's fastest-growing sport serves up fun and exercise

“That gap between novice and beginner is bridged quite quickly and inexpensively, without too much coaching. And that then leads to people wanting to play again.”

Deirdre McArdle and friends playing Padel Tennis in Carrigtwohill. L-R: Annette Quinn, Deirdre McArdle, Brenda Day and Meadhbh Campbell after their first set. Picture: Noel Sweeney

Padel tennis is the fastest-growing sport globally. Over 30 million people play the game worldwide, and the number is growing at a rate of approximately five million per year.

Here in Ireland, its popularity is also on the rise. Although there aren’t exact figures, the governing body, Padel Federation of Ireland, says the number of players is in the “considerable thousands”.