Pick up a padel as ‘world’s happiest sport’ comes to Southampton with six new courts planned

Padel, a Mexican racket game described by players as ‘the happiest sport’, has now arrived in Southampton.

Hampshire-based operator PadelStars is teaming up with Trojans Rugby Club to bring six courts to the outskirts of the city – two outdoors, open now, and another four indoors coming soon.

“We’re delighted to be working alongside PadelStars to bring you Southampton’s first padel facility,” said Campbell Williams, director and deputy chair of Trojans.

“Padel is fun, sociable and easy to get to grips with. We believe that the sport will attract a huge surge of interest.”

Padel is commonly described as a mix between tennis and squash, as it can also involve the walls which enclose the court.

It’s quickly spread from Mexico across the world and is today enjoyed by the likes of David Beckham, Roger Federer and Eva Longoria.

The Lawn Tennis Association estimates there are now more than 450 padel courts across the UK – a 600 per cent increase since 2019 – with a small but growing number operated by Berkshire-based PadelStars.

“PadelStars is more than just a club, it’s a community,” said CEO Andy Knee.

“With introductory classes, individual and group lessons, open matches, social mix-ins and so much more, PadelStars ensures there’s fun to be had for all, no matter your age, gender or ability.

“For us, there’s no doubt that padel is the world’s happiest sport.”

The brand also operates courts in Bracknell, Bournemouth, Reading, St Albans, Chigwell, Folkestone and Basildon.

• padelstars.co.uk