The Hangout: Padel fever hits SA as global stars are ready to shine at SA Invitational

You might be surprised to learn that padel didn’t actually begin in Spain, as many people assume. By people I mean me and I also thought it’s probably only been around for maybe five or ten years. Yes, I know I need to brush up on my sports knowledge a bit. In fact, the sport was born in Mexico in 1969, thanks to the inventive Enrique Corcuera, who decided to blend elements of tennis and squash into something completely new. Spain quickly embraced it in the 1970s, but curiously, South Africa only really caught the padel bug around three years ago. Since then, the sport has taken off like wildfire across the country.

South Africa is also about to host one of its biggest padel events yet. The 360 Padel/Gayle- SA Invitational is coming to the beautiful DP World Wanderers Stadium this August, bringing none other than World Number One champions Arturo Coello and Agustín Tapia to our shores. This star-studded event promises to be nothing short of spectacular.

Earlier this month, an exclusive media launch for the South African Padel Invitational gathered press and insiders for a sneak peek into what fans can expect. There was plenty of buzz around the sport’s growth, with conversations centred on making padel more accessible across all communities and even early whispers of female international champions potentially joining future tournaments.

Adding to the excitement is a bold new team-based format that will shake things up. Twelve top players will be split into two squads: Team Lebron and Team Galán, each led by the superstar captains themselves. Over the course of three thrilling days, spectators will be treated to electrifying matches as players are reshuffled for each game. Expect surprising partnerships, fierce rivalries and world-class action at every turn.

“This isn’t just a tournament - it’s a celebration of padel’s arrival on the African mainstage,” says Sarfraz Bismilla, spokesperson for the South African Invitational. “We’re bringing the world’s biggest names to one of the most iconic venues in the country and giving local fans an unforgettable experience.”

Match Highlights Not to be Missed:

• Friday: Galán vs Lebron – The opening night’s match of the day
• Saturday: Coello vs Tapia – A fierce rivalry redefined
• Sunday: Galán and Coello vs Tapia and Lebron – The ultimate showdown

Whether you’re a padel enthusiast or just a little curious, this is one event you won’t want to miss. Grab your tickets and more info at www.ticketpro.co.za and prepare for a weekend of pure sporting magic.