Padel is still younger in the US than tennis or pickleball, but it is moving from niche club sport to measurable participation category. The clearest signal is not one celebrity court or one city launch. It is the combination of player tracking, new clubs and more states getting proper facilities.
Last updated: 22 June 2026. US figures are changing quickly, so this article uses dated USPA and FIP checks rather than pretending every local market is at the same stage.
Quick answer
The United States Padel Association reported in 2026 that padel had surpassed 1 million US players, citing SFIA tracking. FIP also reported that, by early 2025 estimates, the US had more than 650 courts across 175 clubs in 31 states. That is still small beside established American racket sports, but it explains why clubs are taking padel seriously.
Why clubs are expanding
- It gives tennis and pickleball players something adjacent: padel feels familiar enough to try, but different enough to justify a new booking.
- It suits social programming: doubles, open play and club ladders make it easier to build a community around repeat sessions.
- It can work in urban markets: enclosed courts and premium booking models suit cities where sport, socialising and fitness overlap.
- It now has better data: USPA's 1 million player claim and SFIA inclusion make the sport easier for clubs and investors to discuss in real numbers.
Where the US is strongest
FIP's early-2025 snapshot pointed to Florida as the fastest-growing state by clubs and playing facilities, followed by Texas, California and New York. That does not mean every city has easy access. It means the strongest markets are starting to look like proper clusters rather than isolated courts.
What US beginners should expect
Availability can be patchy. In some cities you may find dedicated padel clubs, coaching and open-play sessions. Elsewhere, the nearest option may still be a private facility or a venue with limited court time. Check booking access, racket hire, parking, indoor or outdoor conditions and beginner sessions before you commit.
What UK readers can learn from the US boom
The US story is a reminder that padel grows fastest when court supply, coaching and community arrive together. A court alone gets people curious. A session that helps them meet 3 players at the same level gets them back next week.
Kit for new players
If you are coming from tennis or pickleball, do not assume your existing habits transfer perfectly. Padel rewards control, positioning and use of the walls. Start with a forgiving racket, then upgrade once your timing settles. Darts Connect keeps padel kit in the racquet sports range, including padel rackets and padel clothing.
Sources and caveats
USPA and FIP figures were checked on 22 June 2026. They describe national growth, not guaranteed local availability. Always check the specific club, booking platform or venue before travelling.
FAQs
Is padel bigger than pickleball in the US?
No. Pickleball is much more established in the US. Padel is growing from a smaller base, which is why percentage growth and new-club stories can sound dramatic.
How many people play padel in the US?
USPA reported that padel had surpassed 1 million US players, citing SFIA tracking. That figure was checked on 22 June 2026.
How many padel courts are in the US?
FIP reported early-2025 estimates of more than 650 courts across 175 clubs in 31 states. The number is likely to keep moving, so check current club listings for live availability.
Why are private clubs interested?
Padel gives clubs a social, bookable, doubles-led racket sport that can attract tennis players, pickleball players and fitness-led beginners without needing the same footprint as full tennis expansion.
Can beginners play padel straight away?
Usually, yes. The first session is approachable, but lessons help because wall play, court position and shot choice are different from tennis and pickleball.
