padel tennis what is it
Padel tennis is a dynamic racquet sport that combines elements of tennis and squash, played on an enclosed court roughly one-third the size of a tennis court. This innovative sport, which originated in Mexico during the 1960s, features unique characteristics that make it both accessible and engaging. The court is surrounded by walls of glass and metallic mesh, allowing players to incorporate these surfaces into their gameplay strategy. Players use special padel racquets, which are solid and perforated, shorter than traditional tennis racquets, and typically made from composite materials like carbon fiber or fiberglass. The game follows a scoring system similar to tennis but incorporates distinct rules regarding wall play and serving techniques. The court dimensions are standardized at 20 meters long by 10 meters wide, with walls typically reaching 4 meters in height. The sport requires less physical intensity than traditional tennis while maintaining a high level of strategic gameplay, making it suitable for players of all ages and skill levels. Modern padel facilities often feature advanced lighting systems, specialized court surfaces, and professional-grade wall materials to enhance the playing experience.