🚀 Explosive Growth in Padel Participation in the UK

According to the latest figures released by the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA), over 400,000 adults and juniors played padel at least once in the 12 months leading up to December 2024. This is a staggering rise from 129,000 players at the end of 2023 — marking more than a threefold increase in UK padel participation in just one year.

Even more telling is the doubling of regular players: 51,000 adults are now playing padel at least twice a month, up from 23,000 the year before. These statistics, derived from Sport England’s Active Lives survey, signal a dramatic shift in the popularity of the sport.

Want to join the movement? Discover new padel clubs in your area.

🏟️ UK Padel Court and Venue Expansion

Hand-in-hand with rising participation is a rapid increase in infrastructure. As of February 2025:

  • There are 893 padel courts spread across 300 venues nationwide.
  • That’s up from just 710 courts in late 2024 and 187 courts back in 2021.
  • The compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of UK padel courts stands at an impressive 56% over four years.

This surge is being propelled by strategic investments. The LTA alone has invested over £6 million into padel development, with £4.5 million allocated to build 80 new courts at 42 venues.

Use The Padel Directory to locate new courts near you and get playing today.

🌍 The UK in the Global Padel Market

The global padel market is on track to hit $870 million by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 12.9%. Within this context, the UK padel market currently holds a market value of approximately $17.7 million (as of 2024), with continued year-on-year growth forecasted.

In Europe, padel is now a major player, with over 30% of the global market share, and Britain is quickly catching up to traditional padel powerhouses like Spain and Italy.

🔎 Why Is Padel Growing So Fast in the UK?

✅ Accessibility and Ease of Play

Padel doesn’t require elite athleticism. It’s fun, easy to learn, and accessible for players of all ages and skill levels — which makes it a perfect social sport.

✅ Soaring Awareness

Awareness of padel among UK adults grew to 43% in 2024, up from just 23% in 2023. Over 8 million Brits now express an interest in trying the sport.

Need help getting started? Browse available padel coaches and lessons near you.

📊 Future Outlook: Where Is the UK Padel Market Heading?

The UK padel market forecast is overwhelmingly positive. With:

  • A tripling in participation
  • A major rise in court installations
  • Millions in funding and investment
  • A growing commercial and recreational interest

…it’s clear that padel in Britain is not a passing trend but a sport on the cusp of mainstream integration.

Stay ahead of the game with the latest venue openings, player communities, and events at The Padel Directory.

🏁 Final Thoughts on the UK Padel Market

Whether you’re a player, investor, or simply padel-curious, there’s never been a better time to get involved. The UK padel industry is thriving — and all indicators suggest it will continue to grow exponentially over the next 5 to 10 years.

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