Source Credit: Arab News
Padel stars from across the world have taken notice of the recent Premier Padel tournament in Riyadh and expressed optimism about the sport's future in Saudi Arabia and elsewhere. The competition began on February 8, 2025, and featured some of the world's top players, demonstrating Saudi Arabia's increasing sway over the world padel sport.
The Saudi Padel Committee Federation was founded in August 2021 and began operations at the end of that year, promoting the sport across Saudi Arabia. In 2022, it became an affiliate of the International Padel Federation.
In order to represent the nation abroad, this has required organizing local competitions (more than 100 in 2024), building national teams for all age categories, and forming local teams. There are now 95 referees and 39 licensed coaches.
The establishment of the Saudi Padel League and the signature of a collaboration agreement between the Saudi Padel Committee and the Saudi Federation for University Sports in Riyadh in September 2024 were significant turning points in 2024.
The agreement intends to increase the number of participants and promote padel at Saudi colleges.
Prominent players Franco Stupaczuk, Martin Di Nenno, and Paula Josemaria said they were thrilled to be playing in Saudi Arabia, citing the nation's dedication to making padel a popular sport. "The facilities here are fantastic, and the enthusiasm from fans is incredible," stated Stupaczuk. "I believe that with continued investment and support, padel will thrive in this region."
Players have several chances to demonstrate their abilities on a global platform because of the event's 25 tournaments held over the course of the year. It is anticipated that the Riyadh tournament would establish the tone for the remainder of the season and raise padel's profile in Asia.
In addition to increasing local involvement, experts think Saudi Arabia's strategic relationships and investments will establish the nation as a Middle Eastern center for padel competitions. Saudi Arabia's efforts have been acknowledged by the International Padel Federation (FIP), which has noted the country's potential to become a premier location for padel courts and competitions.
