SPORT — In the midst of the rise of various sports trends, Tennis Paddle or Padel has emerged as a new favorite that attracts attention. This sport combines elements of tennis and squash, offering a unique and enjoyable playing experience.
For beginners, Tennis Paddle may sound foreign. This article will thoroughly discuss this sport, starting from its history, how to play, to its increasingly global appeal.
Tennis Paddle, first appeared in Acapulco, Mexico in 1969.
This sport is the creation of Enrique Corcuera who modified his squash court and combined it with tennis elements called “Paddle Corcuera”. Over time, this game developed and became popular in Spain, until it finally became global. Now, Tennis Paddle has an international federation and is played in various countries.
Tennis Paddle is played on a 20 x 10 meter field, surrounded by glass and wire walls. Players are divided into two pairs, facing each other separated by a net. The racket used has a flat surface with small holes, and the ball is similar to a low-pressure tennis ball.
The game begins with a diagonal serve, like in tennis. The ball must be hit once before it passes the net, and may bounce once on the opponent’s court before being returned. Uniquely, a Tennis Paddle ball that bounces off the wall is still considered valid in the game, making the game more exciting.
In Indonesia, Tennis Paddle is still a relatively new sport, but its popularity continues to increase. More and more Tennis Paddle communities and clubs are emerging, showing the high enthusiasm of the community.