As Mumbai’s playgrounds shrink and open spaces become increasingly scarce, padel is finding room to flourish. Played on compact enclosed courts, the fast-paced racquet sport is attracting young professionals, fitness enthusiasts and groups seeking an activity that blends sport, socialising and leisure.
Urban Design Research Institute’s Prerna Yadav says accessibility in sports is necessary when the city already faces land constraints. Being both an outdoor and indoor sport has made finding locations for padel courts less difficult. A court has been set up in Powai’s Hiranandani district, inside the Business Park, while Lower Parel’s Phoenix Palladium has become India’s largest integrated rooftop racquet sport hub. Padel’s rise has also brought attention to the cost of playing the sport. Court rentals, memberships and equipment can put it beyond the reach of large sections of Mumbai’s population.