

UK Reaches 1,000 Padel Courts as sport’s popularity surges
Padel has hit a major milestone in the UK, with over 1,000 courts now open across 325 venues, according to new figures released by the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA). The announcement marks a dramatic rise in popularity for the fast-paced racket sport.
In 2019, when the LTA took over governance of padel in Britain, there were just 68 courts nationwide. Since then, the sport has seen explosive growth, with annual increases reaching 763 courts by the end of 2024, and now surpassing 1,000 in July 2025.
The courts are spread across the country, with the London and South East region leading at 297 courts, followed by the South & South West (172) and North & West Midlands (179). Scotland and Wales also contribute to the total, with 45 and 34 courts respectively.
The LTA and LTA Tennis Foundation have invested over £6 million into padel’s development, including £4.5 million toward building 80 courts at 42 venues. Plans are underway to create 40 Community Covered Tennis, Padel and Multi-sport Hubs, aimed at increasing year-round access in underserved areas.
Tom Murray, LTA Head of Padel, said the milestone reflects padel’s rapid rise and its growing role in communities. “We now want to focus on the sustained development of the sport, opening it up to more and different people. As well as maintaining our focus on padel infrastructure, key focus points going forward include growing and diversifying the padel coaching workforce, and implementing a performance pathway that supports current British players whilst also paving the way for the next generation” he said.
With over 75% of venues engaged in community outreach, including free sessions and school partnerships, padel is becoming a key part of Britain’s sporting landscape. The 1,000-court milestone signals a new chapter for the sport, with momentum continuing to build across all regions.
