A big thanks to Belen Montes, whose ideas on empowering female padel were instrumental in shaping this article.
In addition to being one of the world’s fastest-growing sports, padel is a movement being reshaped by the energy and determination of women around the globe. Today, female players, coaches, and entrepreneurs are not only breaking stereotypes but are also redefining the sport’s future.
In Spain, nearly 45% of registered padel players are women, with an impressive annual growth rate of about 25%. This surge is driven by greater visibility in competitions, tailored training programs, and a broader push for gender equality in sports. Across the channel in the United Kingdom, padel is an emerging phenomenon. Recent estimates suggest that between 30% and 35% of players in UK clubs are women. As new facilities open and dedicated events proliferate, the sport creates a dynamic community where female athletes are increasingly taking centre stage.
Strategies to Attract & Empower Female Players
Specialized Training Programs:
Padel clubs can offer classes and coaching sessions tailored specifically for women. Programs led by female coaches foster skill development and inspire confidence among new players. More experienced players can share skills and experiences and offer insight on how to become further involved in the sport.
Exclusive Events & Tournaments:
Organizing competitions and social events designed exclusively for women is an excellent avenue for fostering social connections and ultimately attracting more female players. These initiatives can help build community spirit and encourage more women to participate, providing a welcoming setting where female players become familiar with padel.
Inclusive Marketing & Communication:
Consider adapting your club’s messaging formats to reflect diversity and inclusion. Use visual and verbal content that showcases female athletes in action, emphasizing padel’s fun, social, and empowering aspects.
Enhanced Club Facilities:
Clubs can implement improvements to the design and orientation of infrastructure—comfortable changing rooms, dedicated rest areas, and family-friendly spaces can make the experience more welcoming for female players.
Strategic Partnerships:
Collaborate with brands, influencers, and organizations that champion women in sports. Such partnerships can boost the club’s visibility and credibility in the market and demonstrate a diversity-oriented outlook that seeks to cater to a wide range of athletes.
By capitalizing on this trend and employing these strategies, clubs can build a more inclusive environment, allowing for further growth in women’s padel participation. This strong foundation will lay the groundwork for padel’s future female market and convey how diverse the sport has become.
The Future of Padel Is Female
As the sport continues to grow, the impact of women in padel is becoming more pronounced. They are not only contributing to the evolution of the game but also driving broader social change by challenging gender norms and inspiring future generations. The footprint of women in padel can be a guiding light for other sports in regard to gender perceptions and can set the standard for the widespread participation of female athletes in both professional and amateur sporting settings.
This International Women’s Day let’s celebrate these game changers who are transforming padel worldwide. Their talent, vision, and perseverance are reshaping the landscape of the sport and setting new standards for what’s possible both on and off the court.
