If you’ve noticed more people trading their gym routines for glass-walled courts and racquets without strings, you’re not imagining it. Padel—the fast-paced, doubles-only racquet sport that blends tennis with squash—has taken hold of Malaysians, and it’s turning heads in all the right places.

Like pickleball, it’s easy to pick up, wildly addictive, and—most importantly—deeply social. But where pickleball leans casual, padel brings a touch of flair and finesse: think quicker footwork, sharper angles, and a more stamina-forward workout. It’s no wonder both are becoming staples among the well-travelled and well-connected.

A Game That’s as Fun as It Looks

Originating in Mexico in the late 1960s, padel quickly became a sensation in Spain and across Latin America before sweeping through Europe. Something of a cross between tennis and squash, it is played on a smaller court than tennis, enclosed by glass and mesh walls that the ball can bounce off—adding an extra layer of strategy, spectacle and spatial awareness.

But beyond gameplay, the real appeal lies in how easy it is to jump in. There’s no need for a blistering serve or years of technique.

Just grab three friends, learn the basics, and you’re rallying within minutes. It’s fast, reactive, and endlessly entertaining—making it ideal for mixed-skill groups and social matches after hours.

Malaysia’s Padel Phenomenon

Across Kuala Lumpur and Selangor, padel courts are popping up in urban enclaves already known for their lifestyle leanings.

Padel Centres like Ace Padel in Kepong, The Padelground in Desa ParkCity, Padel X in Mont Kiara, and even as far as Padel Perak in Ipoh, are drawing a crowd that’s part fitness-focused, part scene-savvy.

The crowd? A mix of professionals, creatives, and well-followed faces who turn match days into content opportunities. In fact, there are lots of clubs and communities dedicated to the sport like My Padel Community and All About Padel It’s not unusual to see local influencers hosting weekend doubles, or post-game drinks extending well into the evening; padel is proving itself as more than just a trend—it’s becoming a social currency.

What about Pickleball?

While padel and pickleball often get mentioned in the same breath, they speak to slightly different energies. Pickleball, with its slower pace and wider accessibility, has found a solid footing in family-friendly communities and among older players. Padel, on the other hand, has a certain edge—livelier, faster, more cinematic.

For urbanites looking to blend cardio with community, padel offers a perfect middle ground. The doubles format encourages conversation and chemistry, while the smaller court keeps the action tight and engaging.

Add Padel to Your Weekend Ritual

As interest in experience-led wellness continues to grow, padel has carved out its space as the sport that ticks every box. It’s active, accessible, and undeniably stylish. Whether you’re in it for the sweat, the strategy, or the social scene, padel fits seamlessly into modern city living.

So if you’re looking to swap your next brunch or yoga class for something a little more spirited, it might be time to book a padel session. Just don’t forget your sunglasses—both for the game, and the photo ops after.