TLDR:

Padel is experiencing exponential growth in Qatar, with the country becoming a global hub for the sport. The inclusive nature and social component of padel have attracted players of all ages and skill levels. Qatar recently hosted the Ooredoo Qatar Major Premier Padel tournament and has been actively contributing to the sport’s development by organizing international competitions. The country ranks eighth globally and first in Asia for its performance in padel, with numerous Qatari players achieving FIP rankings.

Key Points:

• Padel is growing rapidly in Qatar due to its social component and inclusivity.
• Qatar recently hosted the Ooredoo Qatar Major Premier Padel tournament, the first of four Majors in the international circuit.
• The Qatar Tennis Federation is actively contributing to the sport’s growth through international tournaments.
• In 2023, Qatar had over 1,350 players with national professional licenses and ranks eighth globally in padel.

Padel is experiencing exponential growth in Qatar, propelling the country to the forefront of the global padel scene. According to Edu Franza, Head Coach and Sports Manager at The Dome Padel Club, the sport’s rapid expansion is fuelled by its strong “social component,” creating a sense of community among players of all ages and skill levels. “Qatar is now the centre of padel, it’s the capital of padel in the world, not only here,” he said. He explained that the accessibility and inclusive nature of the sports make it appealing to a wide range of enthusiasts, regardless of their experience or background.

Last two weeks, Qatar hosted the Ooredoo Qatar Major Premier Padel, the first of four Majors in the international tournament circuit. Subsequent competitions are scheduled in Italy (June), Paris (October), and Mexico (November). A survey by the International Padel Federation (FIP) revealed Qatar’s prominence in the sport’s development, particularly in the Middle East and across Asia.

Moreover, according to FIP Research & Data Analysis Department, in 2023, Qatar has over 1,350 players holding national professional licences, alongside tens of thousands of amateur players. Notably, Qatar ranks eighth globally and first in Asia for its performance in padel, with 71 Qatari players achieving FIP rankings. Leading the charge are players like Mohammed Saadon Alkuwari, Abdulla Alhijji, and Jabor Al Mutawa.

The recent addition of Qatar Foundation’s indoor and outdoor padel facilities at Education City and Education City Golf Club further underscores the country’s commitment to promoting the sport’s accessibility and inclusivity. The Dome Padel Club at Education City offers opportunities for both newcomers and seasoned players.