Key takeaways
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Former tennis world No.1 Pat Rafter will lead the first Padel Invitational presented by UBS
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A purpose-built court with views of Sydney Harbour Bridge will host the event on 15–16 August
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The field includes established stars Juan Martin Diaz, Alejandra Salazar, Maxi Sanchez, alongside emerging players such as Pablo Garci and Mar Munuera
Rafter shares his enthusiasm for padel
As a member of the Aussie Crocs national padel team, Pat Rafter welcomed the opportunity to present the sport at one of Sydney’s most recognisable venues. “Padel is unlike anything else I’ve played. It’s fast, dynamic, incredibly entertaining to watch and fun and social to play,” he said. “To be able to showcase the sport at the Sydney Opera House is pretty special.”
Global stars joined by rising players
Exhibition matches featuring leading international players will form part of the Invitational. The lineup is headed by former world No.1s Juan Martin Diaz, Alejandra Salazar and Maxi Sanchez, with world No.11 Pablo Garci and reigning junior world champion Mar Munuera among the younger competitors.
The federation outlines its vision
International Padel Federation president Luigi Carraro highlighted the event’s significance. “Creating a padel event at the Sydney Opera House is a powerful way to showcase the sport on an iconic stage, and with Brisbane 2032 on the horizon, build momentum towards our long-term Olympic ambition,” he said.
Stars enter the 1 Point Padel event
Saturday 15 August will feature the Celebrity 1 Point Padel tournament, a competition inspired by the AO 1 Point Slam. Rafter is set to partner fellow Davis Cup champion Todd Woodbridge, with actor Josh Heuston and comedy duo The Inspired Unemployed also taking part.
Elite matches, entertainment and cultural celebration will come together at the inaugural Padel Invitational, representing a landmark moment for padel in Australia.
