The International Padel Federation (FIP) confirmed this week that the global padel court count has surpassed 100,000, a milestone that would have seemed impossible five years ago when the number stood at approximately 35,000.
Where the Courts Are
Spain remains the dominant market with an estimated 30,000 courts, followed by Argentina (12,000), Italy (8,000), and Sweden (5,500). The fastest growth rates are in the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and Oceania — markets where padel was virtually unknown before 2020.
New Zealand's contribution is modest but growing: approximately 25 courts across 9 clubs, with several new facilities in planning stages. Australia has moved faster, with over 200 courts already operational.
What's Driving Growth
Three factors consistently appear in market analyses: the social nature of the sport (always doubles), the accessibility (underhand serve, enclosed court reduces intimidation), and the commercial viability for venue operators (padel courts generate higher revenue per square metre than tennis courts).
The last point is particularly significant. A padel court occupies roughly one-third the space of a tennis court but can command similar hourly rates. For sports facility operators, the economics are compelling.