Padel statistics: how fast is the sport really growing?
FIP describes padel as one of the world's fastest-growing sports. The figures below are shown with their publication dates and methodology.
The 2026 global snapshot
On 23 June 2026 FIP reported 38 million players across 178 countries and territories, 85,000 courts, 27,000 clubs and 100 affiliated national federations. Player totals are participation estimates, not licence counts.
- 38m
- estimated players, FIP June 2026
- 85,000
- courts worldwide
- 178
- countries and territories
Measuring rapid growth
The comparable 2025 World Padel Report counted more than 35 million players, 24,600+ clubs and 77,300 courts. Clubs grew 16.1%, courts 15.2% and federation registrations 42% year on year.
FIP and Premier Padel describe padel as the 'world's fastest-growing sport'; the published growth figures provide context for that claim.
Spain and Argentina
For Spain, FIP estimated 6.2m+ amateur players, 4,570+ facilities and 17,300+ courts in October 2025. Spain's federation closed 2025 with 117,508 licences—a narrower measure.
Argentina's latest consolidated profile lists roughly 3,100 facilities, 7,000 courts and 1.6m+ amateur players, but its measurement date is April 2024. Federation data listed around 530 affiliated clubs and 8,700 professional licences.
Austria in context
FIP estimated 120 facilities, 327 courts and about 100,000 amateur players for June 2025. Its narrower 2024 federation data listed 105 affiliated clubs, 274 courts, 6,455 licensed players and 248 licensed coaches.
APU separately reported 11,800+ ranking registrations and 300+ courts. Market, federation, licence and platform figures measure different groups and must not be added together.
Try it on court
Put the theory into practice. Find a padel club in Austria or check current court availability.
Reports and methodology
Every number retains its date and source. Amateur-player totals are estimates; licences and affiliated clubs are narrower definitions.
Editorially reviewed on 1 August 2026