Canada’s Next Big Sport? Padel’s Popularity Soars Amidst a Court Crunch

Padel, a racket sport that blends elements of tennis and squash, is experiencing an unprecedented rise in popularity in Canada. While the sport has long been a dominant force in Europe and Latin America, it is now gaining traction in Canada due to its accessibility, social nature, and fast-paced gamepdnlay.

It's becoming so popular, in fact, that you can even bet on some pro events at bookmakers and casino sites.

Canada’s Court Crisis 

According to the World Padel Report, Canada currently has an estimated 50,000 padel players, yet the country is home to only 29 courts—resulting in an astonishing 1,724 players per court. This significant disparity highlights both the demand for more padel facilities and the sport’s untapped potential in the Canadian market. 

At the beginning of 2024, the world had over 60,000 padel courts, with Europe accounting for more than 42,600 courts—70 percent of the global total, according to the World Padel Report. Padel in Europe is growing equally as fast. 

The Most Padel-Curious Cities in Canada 

Google search trends reveal that interest in padel is strongest in several key Canadian cities over the past year. The top five cities where padel has the highest search volume over the past twelve months are:

1. Morrisburg – This Ontario town tops the list, showing the highest level of interest in padel. Its presence at number one suggests that padel enthusiasm is growing beyond just the major urban centers.
2. Brossard – A suburb of Montreal, Brossard remains a key hub for padel in Quebec, with a growing sports community eager for new facilities.
3. Nicolet – Another Quebec city on the rise, Nicolet’s increasing curiosity about padel reflects the province’s expanding interest in racket sports.
4. Montreal – As one of Canada’s most populous and diverse cities, Montreal continues to see growing engagement with padel, fueled by its active and health-conscious population.
5. Oakville – A part of the Greater Toronto Area, Oakville rounds out the top five, indicating strong interest in padel among Ontario’s sports enthusiasts.

Why Padel is Gaining Traction in Canada

Several factors contribute to padel’s rapid rise in Canada. First, its social and accessible nature makes it appealing to players of all ages and skill levels. Unlike tennis, which requires significant technical skill, padel is easier to learn, leading to a more engaging and enjoyable experience from the first session. Additionally, the sport’s emphasis on doubles play fosters community and camaraderie, further fueling its popularity.

Another key driver is the increasing demand for more courts. With only 29 courts available nationwide, the need for additional facilities is evident. High-profile investors and entrepreneurs are beginning to recognize the potential of padel, leading to the gradual development of clubs and courts across the country.

The Future of Padel in Canada

With tens of thousands of players but limited infrastructure, padel in Canada is at a pivotal moment. As more courts are built and interest continues to rise, the sport has the potential to become a mainstream activity alongside tennis and pickleball. The rise of professional tournaments, increased media coverage, and corporate sponsorships will further elevate its status, positioning Canada as the next big market for padel’s expansion.