Is Padel the Next Big Sport in India According to Mahesh Bhupathi?
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Synopsis
Mahesh Bhupathi, a tennis legend, shares insights on the rapid growth of padel in India, emphasizing its potential and the upcoming World Padel League, which promises to bring excitement to sports fans. Discover how this emerging sport can reshape career opportunities in the industry.
Key Takeaways
- Padel is rapidly gaining popularity in India.
- Mahesh Bhupathi's involvement is pivotal for the sport's growth.
- The World Padel League is set to enhance the sport's profile.
- Padel presents new career opportunities for sports professionals.
- India is on the brink of a padel revolution.
New Delhi, Aug 12 (NationPress) Mahesh Bhupathi, a name that resonates with Indian tennis success, has been instrumental in elevating the country’s presence on the international tennis stage. Now, the 12-time Grand Slam doubles champion is applying his knowledge and vision to a rapidly emerging racket sport - padel. With the World Padel League (WPL), Bhupathi is optimistic that the sport is on the brink of significant growth.
"Padel is currently one of the most rapidly developing sports in India. In recent years, there has been remarkable growth, with numerous tennis players adopting it as a secondary sport. However, I think we are just at the beginning, and there is ample room for expansion," he shared with IANS.
For Bhupathi, relocating the WPL from Dubai to India represents more than just a premier event; it’s about propelling this growth forward. “One of our primary objectives is to help facilitate this journey. We are also collaborating closely with the Federation to plan additional events surrounding it. Ideally, in 5–10 years, we will witness the full potential of this sport,” he stated.
While the Indian audience is still familiarizing themselves with padel, the sport already features a well-organized international schedule. “Many are unaware, but padel has four major tournaments,” Bhupathi highlighted. “They host the Qatar Major, Italy Premier Padel Major, Paris Premier Padel Major, and Mexico Premier Padel Major. Similar to tennis, it has a complete tour, and players are gaining popularity. For Indian fans, experiencing this caliber of competition is rare, making the WPL a thrilling opportunity.”
Bhupathi envisions padel as a sport that can create new career opportunities, not only for athletes but for all sports professionals. “In any sport, establishing a career requires starting young and dedicating effort. Most tennis coaches are former players, and the same transition will occur with padel; one needs to play the sport at a competitive level to coach effectively,” he elaborated. “Currently, many tennis coaches in India are also instructing padel and pickleball, so job prospects will naturally emerge, which is beneficial for the entire ecosystem.”
The third season of the World Padel League will take place at Mumbai’s Nesco from August 12 to 16. Following the enthusiastic response from the second season, the league will introduce two additional teams, enhancing its competitiveness with six teams and 36 elite players.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the transformative potential of padel in India. With Mahesh Bhupathi's involvement and the establishment of the WPL, the sport is poised for significant growth. This initiative not only promotes athleticism but also fosters new career avenues, ensuring that India remains at the forefront of global sports.
NationPress
20/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is padel?
Padel is a racket sport that combines elements of tennis and squash, played in doubles on an enclosed court.
How is padel growing in India?
Padel is experiencing remarkable growth in India, with more players, including tennis professionals, taking an interest in the sport.
What is the World Padel League?
The World Padel League is an international competition that showcases top padel players from around the globe, enhancing the sport's visibility and popularity.
When is the World Padel League taking place in India?
The third season of the World Padel League will occur in Mumbai from August 12 to 16.
What career opportunities does padel offer?
Padel opens various career paths for players, coaches, and sports professionals, creating a robust ecosystem for growth and development.
