Padel ball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the world today, captivating millions with its unique blend of tennis and squash. But despite its meteoric rise in popularity, fans often ask: Is padel ball in the Olympics? The short answer is no—but the story behind why, and what the future holds, is far more compelling.

Introduction to Padel Ball

Originating in Mexico in the 1960s, padel is a racket sport played on an enclosed court smaller than a tennis court. Unlike tennis, padel is almost always played in doubles, using solid rackets and a low-compression ball that bounces differently than a standard tennis ball.

Over the past decade, padel has surged in popularity across Europe, Latin America, and the Middle East. With around 25 million players worldwide and more than 90 countries embracing the game, it has become a recreational and competitive favorite.

So, why isn’t it in the Olympics yet?

What Is an Olympic Sport?

For any sport to be considered for the Olympic Games, it must meet several criteria set by the International Olympic Committee (IOC). These include:

• Widespread international presence

• Organized governance through a global federation

• Adherence to the Olympic Charter, including anti-doping rules and ethics

Moreover, the IOC typically finalizes the lineup of sports 7 years before the games take place. That means for inclusion in Brisbane 2032, decisions will likely be made by 2025.

Is Padel Ball in the Olympics Right Now?

No, as of 2025, padel is not part of the Olympic program for Paris 2024 or Los Angeles 2028. While it has received increasing recognition—most notably as part of the Association of IOC Recognized International Sports Federations (ARISF)—this is not the same as full Olympic status.

That said, this ARISF affiliation is a key milestone. It means that padel meets the foundational governance standards required by the IOC and is eligible for future consideration.

Reasons Padel Ball Is Not in the Olympics

There are several reasons padel has not yet reached Olympic status:

1. Geographic Participation Thresholds Not Met

To qualify, men’s participation must span 75 countries on four continents, and women’s across 40 countries on three continents. Padel is close but hasn't fully achieved these numbers.

2. Late Start for Paris and LA

The IOC deadlines for Paris 2024 and LA 2028 had already passed before padel’s growth accelerated in recent years.

3. Governance Still Maturing

While the FIP is now well-structured, earlier inconsistencies in its global presence and coordination delayed its Olympic momentum.

The Role of the International Padel Federation (FIP)

The FIP has been instrumental in padel's global spread and is now leading the charge for Olympic inclusion. Their initiative, known as the “Olympic Project”, focuses on:

• Building padel’s global participation numbers

• Aligning competitions with Olympic standards

• Collaborating with national Olympic committees

Under its current president, Luigi Carraro, the FIP has prioritized transparency, youth development, and international unity—all crucial for Olympic acceptance.

Global Growth and Popularity of Padel

Countries like Spain, Argentina, Sweden, and even Qatar have embraced padel, constructing courts, developing leagues, and promoting tournaments. Padel is even being picked up by high-profile athletes and celebrities, fueling public interest.

According to several market research reports, padel is on track to become the most played racket sport in Europe by 2030.

The Path Toward Brisbane 2032

Brisbane 2032 could be padel’s golden ticket. If the FIP meets participation thresholds and presents a compelling case to the IOC, the sport could make its Olympic debut.

The timeline is tight—padel must satisfy all criteria by around 2025—but optimism remains high, especially as countries like the UK and USA expand their padel infrastructure.

Could Padel Survive Without the Olympics?

Absolutely. While Olympic status would provide added prestige and funding, padel has already carved out a powerful niche on its own. With the rise of professional tours such as the Premier Padel and World Padel Tour, the sport boasts a dedicated global fanbase, growing youth participation, and high-level competition.

In fact, many fans on platforms like Reddit argue that padel doesn’t need the Olympics to thrive. It’s developing a strong identity independent of traditional sporting frameworks, especially in Europe and Latin America.

How the Olympics Could Benefit Padel

Though not essential to its survival, Olympic inclusion would offer padel several advantages:

• Increased global exposure – especially in underrepresented regions like North America and Asia.

• Access to funding – from governments and private sponsors motivated by Olympic potential.

• Boost in infrastructure – including school programs, public courts, and youth academies.

• Legitimacy in sports policy – leading to further professionalization and media coverage.

Other Sports Recently Added to the Olympics

Understanding how other niche sports joined the Olympics sheds light on padel’s potential path. Consider these:

Each of these sports built strong global networks and highlighted cultural relevance. Padel is now following a similar trajectory—if it continues on this path, Olympic recognition is well within reach.

Common Myths About Padel and the Olympics

❌ “Padel is just tennis with walls”

Wrong. While it shares similarities, padel has distinct rules, strategies, and court dynamics.

❌ “The IOC has already rejected padel”

False. The sport hasn’t been rejected; it simply hasn't met inclusion criteria—yet.

❌ “It’s only played in Europe and Latin America”

Not anymore. The sport is growing fast in the U.S., Asia, and the Middle East, with new courts opening every month.

What the Future Holds for Padel Ball

Padel’s future is bright. With passionate athletes, booming interest, and the structure now in place, it has the momentum needed to become an Olympic sport—perhaps as early as Brisbane 2032.

But even if it doesn’t make that cut, its global rise won’t stop. The sport is on a path of continuous expansion, and inclusion in schools, clubs, and televised tournaments only adds to its staying power.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is padel ball in the Olympics right now?

No, padel is not currently part of the Olympic Games.

2. When could padel be added to the Olympics?

The earliest possible inclusion is Brisbane 2032, but criteria must be met by around 2025.

3. What organization oversees padel internationally?

The International Padel Federation (FIP) manages the sport on a global scale.

4. How is padel different from tennis?

Padel is played on a smaller court, often with walls, using solid rackets and a lower-bounce ball. It's also typically played in doubles.

5. Which countries play padel the most?

Spain, Argentina, Sweden, Italy, and now growing rapidly in the UK, USA, and Middle East.

6. Will Olympic inclusion affect the sport’s popularity?

Yes, it would likely boost visibility, funding, and youth participation globally.

Conclusion

So, is padel ball in the Olympics? Not yet—but it's closer than ever. With a solid governing body, increasing global reach, and a growing fan base, the sport is making all the right moves. If it can check the remaining boxes, Olympic inclusion is not just a dream—it’s a likely reality.

Until then, the padel community continues to thrive, fueled by passion, innovation, and a love for the game.

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