Padel was created by Mexican millionaire Enrique Corcuera, who wanted to treat his children to an alternative to tennis in the grounds of his home. He therefore dreamt up a game which would be easier to learn and more accessible for everyone, especially beginners. Padel has the same scoring system as tennis, but smaller courts, and different rules, strikes and techniques.

The first padel court made its appearance in 1969 in Acapulco, Mexico. This new racket sport soon encountered rising popularity, appealing to Mexicans for its simplicity and enjoyment. Shortly afterwards, it was introduced in Spain where it was met with real enthusiasm. Allowing for outdoor play all year round, the Mediterranean climate undoubtedly played a large part in its surging development.

Padel also gained more visibility thanks to personalities from the world of sport who began to play and promote it. Today, padel is one of the sports most played in Spain, with thousands of clubs now open and tournaments held each year. Success which crossed the borders into other countries, especially in Europe, where national federations have been set up to promote the game on the international scene. Padel even became part of the World Games event in 2005.

In Monaco, dedicated infrastructures were quickly set in place to meet rising demand from fans, including a partnership between the Padel Monégasque association and Tennis Padel Soleil of neighbouring Beausoleil. The latter, the largest padel club on the Côte d’Azur, proposes five courts, two of them covered for year-round play under all weather conditions, a centre court with stands for 300 spectators, and highly qualified instructors.

The world’s best players, together with other sportsmen and personalities, come here for training and to play with club members. Who also benefit from a premium gym, a magnificent club-house, and a restaurant to add further enjoyment to their sporting activities. Regular tournaments are also organized for both amateurs and professionals. In June 2022, the world’s best players confronted each other on the terraces of Beausoleil and on the spectacular centre court installed specially for the occasion at the rear of the Casino de Monte-Carlo for the CMB Monaco Master, one of the most prestigious padel events worldwide. Held for the third consecutive year in the Principality, it offered spectators a glimpse of HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco and Circuit President Fabrice Pastor during the finals, won by Leo Augsburger and Alex Chozas of Argentina, Marina Guinart and Araceli Martinez of Spain.