Padel sport rapidly gaining popularity in Pakistan

Padel is becoming a popular sport in Pakistan, especially among young people and celebrities. This game combines elements of tennis and squash and is usually played in doubles on a smaller, enclosed court. The courts allow players to hit the ball off the walls, adding a new challenge to the game. In Pakistan, the sport is gaining traction, particularly in cities like Karachi. New facilities are being built, but demand for courts is high. Recently, a new padel facility was opened at Bagh-e-Ibn-e-Qasim, supported by local government efforts to promote healthier lifestyles. Mudassar Razak Arain, a leader in the Pakistan Padel Federation, discussed the sport’s growth and challenges. He noted that while padel is attracting attention, many courts are unregistered and primarily focused on profit instead of developing talent. Despite these issues, there is hope as local player Aziz Khan has gained international recognition. The Pakistan Padel Federation plans to host national tournaments starting in April and aims to provide free access to players from less fortunate backgrounds. The federation is also working with the government to improve court standards to host international events. Looking ahead, Arain's team is optimistic about finding and nurturing talented players. Their aim is to eliminate financial obstacles so that young athletes can thrive in the sport. With continued support, they believe Pakistan can become a strong competitor in international padel.