Padel’s quest for Olympic status has reached a major turning point. The sport has received formal recognition from the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA), which has confirmed that it will be a discipline in upcoming Asian Games. The legitimacy and exposure of padel on the global scene have significantly increased as a result of this ruling.
An Increased Presence at Multisport Competitions
Padel’s recent participation in other significant multisport competitions led to the OCA’s endorsement. It participated in the 2022 South American Games, the 2023 European Games, and is expected to compete in the 2026 Mediterranean Games. These additions demonstrate how popular the sport is among a wide range of athletes and how it is spreading across countries.
Quick Growth Throughout Asia
The sport has experienced rapid expansion under the direction of the International Padel Federation (FIP) and its regional affiliate, Padel Asia. With a steady increase in involvement, there are currently over 4,600 courts scattered throughout 30 Asian countries. Padel’s global reach is demonstrated by the fact that FIP today represents almost 100 national federations globally.
A Direct Route to Olympic Inclusion
To promote padel and guarantee its inclusion in upcoming Olympic programs, FIP is still collaborating closely with international organizations. According to Luigi Carraro, President of the International Padel Federation, “we are proud of this achievement and remain focused on building strong partnerships that will help padel reach the Olympic stage.”