PADEL IS WITNESSING a rise in popularity across urban India, driven by changing fitness habits, expanding infrastructure and growing corporate interest, according to Nikhil Sachdev, co-founder of PadelPark India.
Speaking to Free Press Journal, Sachdev attributed this growth primarily to a shift in how younger Indians view health and fitness.
“Fitness has become a key part of people’s lifestyles, especially among those in their 20s and late teens. That mindset shift is driving participation across sports, including padel,” he told FPJ.
Sachdev noted that amateur participation in sports such as football, cricket, pickleball and padel has risen significantly, supported by local leagues, tournaments and improved infrastructure.
However, padel’s unique appeal lies in its accessibility. “It is not a very complex sport to start playing. Within one or two sessions, players can get comfortable enough to enjoy a game recreationally. Unlike tennis or golf, it is not highly technical at the entry level,” he said.
This ease of adoption allows even those with limited mobility or sporting background to participate, making it particularly attractive in urban settings.
Affordability hurdle to expanding access
On affordability, Sachdev acknowledged that padel currently leans towards the expensive side. “The pricing is largely a function of location. Operating in prime areas increases costs,” he said.
However, he added that prices are relatively more affordable in cities such as Bengaluru, where operational costs are lower. PadelPark India has also introduced price corrections where feasible.
“As more courts come up and competition increases, prices will stabilise. In residential societies, private clubs and sports facilities, padel is being added to existing infrastructure, which will make it more accessible,” he said.
Sachdev pointed out that playing at established clubs can be inexpensive, though membership costs remain a barrier. He expects affordability to improve over the next one to one-and-a-half years as the sport matures.
To expand access, PadelPark India has partnered with McDonald’s for academy programmes aimed at grassroots development. “We are offering introductory courses, including free sessions, and exploring locations beyond prime areas to make the sport more accessible,” he said.
He also highlighted the role of former India cricket captain MS Dhoni, an investor in the company, in expanding the sport’s reach. “Through school networks and state infrastructure, padel can become far more affordable and widespread,” Sachdev said.
Sachdev emphasised the importance of building a strong ecosystem comprising courts, academies and tournaments.
PadelPark India has organised over 25 tournaments in the past year, with participation growing rapidly. “Our first tournament had about 10 to 12 teams. A recent event in Mumbai saw 160 teams and around 300 players over three days,” he said.
Sponsor support
He added that tournaments are now being held frequently, with increasing participation and sponsorship from major brands, including automobile companies, banks and financial institutions. “Corporate interest is rising because padel offers access to a wider and more engaged audience compared to traditional sports like golf and tennis,” he said.
