Padel and pickleball are often compared because they look similar at first glance. Both are fast-growing racket sports played on smaller courts, and both are known for long, exciting rallies. However, padel is not a version of pickleball, it’s a completely different sport with its own history, rules, and style of play.

Understanding their differences helps explain why both are gaining popularity worldwide.

What is Padel?

Padel started in 1969 in Acapulco, Mexico, when Enrique Corcuera built a smaller, enclosed tennis court at his home. The sport quickly spread to Spain and Argentina in the 1970s and grew internationally in the 1980s with the introduction of glass courts and official organizations like the International Padel Federation.

Padel combines elements of tennis and squash. It’s typically played in doubles, and players can use the surrounding walls to keep the ball in play, adding strategy and longer rallies.

Court Differences

One of the biggest differences between padel and pickleball is the court design.

Padel courts are enclosed with glass walls and metal fencing. Players can even step outside the court to return shots. The court is larger than a pickleball court but smaller than a tennis court.

Pickleball courts are open and about a quarter the size of a tennis court. They can be set up on existing tennis courts, making them more accessible.

Equipment

Padel rackets (also called paddles) are solid with holes and made from materials like carbon fiber or fiberglass. They are heavier, offering more power and control.

Pickleball paddles are lighter, flat, and usually made from graphite or composite materials, making them easier for beginners to handle.

Ball Type

Padel balls look like tennis balls but have lower pressure, making them less bouncy.

Pickleball balls are lightweight plastic with holes, similar to a wiffle ball, which slows the game down.

Scoring and Gameplay

Padel uses a tennis-style scoring system (15, 30, 40, game) and is played in sets. The ball must bounce on the opponent’s side before hitting the wall.

Pickleball has simpler scoring, usually played to 11 points (win by two). Only the serving team scores, and players must follow the “double bounce rule” before volleys are allowed.

Governing Bodies

Padel is managed globally by the International Padel Federation, which oversees competitions and rankings.

Pickleball is governed by the International Pickleball Federation, established in 2023 and rapidly expanding worldwide.

Both sports are growing quickly and gaining attention in countries like the Philippines. There are ongoing discussions about including them in major events such as the Palarong Pambansa, and both are pushing for future Olympic inclusion.

While padel and pickleball share some similarities, they offer very different playing experiences. Padel focuses on strategy and wall play, while pickleball emphasizes simplicity and accessibility. As both continue to expand globally, their unique strengths will likely attract different types of players.