High-end department store Harrods introduces Padel equipment brand, reflecting the escalating popularity of the sport.
Padel on the Rise: UK Leads Global Expansion of Popular Racket Sport
Padel, a fast-paced and social racket sport, is gaining momentum both in the United Kingdom and globally. In the UK, the sport is experiencing a surge in popularity, with over 400,000 players by the end of 2024, up from just 89,000 in 2021 [1].
The growth of padel in the UK is evident in the increasing number of padel courts. Planning applications for these courts rose over 113% in 2024, with an estimated 17,000 prime UK sites identified for future development [1]. By the end of 2024, the UK had 760 padel courts, reflecting rapid expansion [3]. Monthly online search interest in padel in the UK rose from 3,600 in 2020 to 40,500 in 2025 — a 1,025% increase [2].
London and the south east account for nearly a third of the 1,000-plus padel courts in the country [3]. Other areas in the country are also becoming more populated by enclosed racket courts for padel. Britain has jumped up the leaderboard to become the third biggest market for padel [4].
Globally, padel is one of the fastest-growing racket sports, with approximately 30 million players worldwide as of 2025, making it the 4th most popular racket sport after badminton, tennis, and table tennis [4]. Most players are concentrated in Europe and Latin America [5]. Key countries with strong padel communities include Spain, Argentina, Italy, Sweden, the UAE, and growing markets like the U.S. and the UK [5].
The sport’s appeal lies in its accessibility, social and inclusive nature, and compact court size, which enables easier and more affordable construction compared to tennis [1][3]. Increasing media coverage of professional padel tournaments also fuels interest and adoption globally [4].
Harrods, a renowned department store, has stocked a padel brand for the first time, with the UK-based apparel brand Pulco being the chosen brand. Joe Middleton, the founder of Pulco, expressed pride about being the first padel apparel brand at Harrods. The Pulco range, showcased in Harrods, ranges from £10 for socks to £480 for a padel pack [2]. Igo Theo Ian of Pulco stated that honoring padel's roots is central to their brand. Pulco's collections are designed in London.
Padel chiefs are planning a Ryder Cup-style event next year, with the best players from Europe taking on the top players from the Americas. This event is due to be held in London, marking a significant milestone for the sport. The collaboration between Pulco and Harrods is also a milestone and expansion for the sport.
References: 1. Padel Growth in the UK 2. Padel at Harrods 3. Number of Padel Courts in the UK 4. Global Padel Statistics 5. Countries with Strong Padel Communities
In the growing realm of sports and sports-related products, Harrods, a prestigious department store, recently stocked a padel brand, fashioned by the UK-based apparel company Pulco, marking the brand's debut in the renowned retailer. simultaneously, the popular racket sport of padel, particularly in the UK, is increasing its reach, with the expansion of padel courts and a rise in the number of participants, making it a potential competitor to traditional sports such as stocks [financial], which are often associated with investment portfolios.
