By Muhammad Shafique Raja
ISLAMABAD, Jun 22 (APP): As the sun dips behind the Margalla Hills and floodlights flicker on across the courts of the Padel Pit in Sector E-11, Islamabad, the rhythmic thud of ball against glass echoes across the summer air, marking the rise of a new sporting wave in Pakistan.
The sport of padel, a dynamic hybrid of tennis and squash, is quietly gaining traction across Pakistan. While cricket continues to reign supreme, padel is rapidly carving out its niche, particularly in urban hubs like Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad and Rawalpindi. With purpose-built courts, late-night playing hours and youth increasingly seeking alternatives to screen-heavy lifestyles, the sport is becoming a magnet for both recreational players and emerging athletes.
“We’re seeing growing interest every week,” said Saad Ghayaz, co-owner of Padel Pit. “People are realizing that padel is not only fun but also accessible to a wide range of fitness levels. It’s fast-paced, social and perfect for this generation.”
Osama, co-owner of another club, Padel Deck at G.T Road near DHA 2 Islamabad added: “The beauty of padel is how quickly you can pick it up, and yet it’s deep enough to keep you hooked. Whether it’s school students or professionals, we’re seeing people flood in from all age groups.”
Among the sport’s rising stars in the capital are national tennis players Huzaima Abdul Rehman and Rafay Aimal, who have swiftly made a mark on Pakistan’s padel scene. Both regularly train at Padel Deck.
Huzaima, crowned Player of the Tournament in the recent PADEL IN Open (Men A Category), is one of the brightest prospects.
“It’s not just a sport. It’s a mindset,” he said. “Padel teaches you to think on your feet, adapt quickly, and stay mentally sharp.”
“The environment at Padel Deck has played a key role in my development. I’ve had the chance to train with skilled players, improve my strategy, and stay consistent with my fitness.”
“For me, it’s more than competing; it’s about building a strong mental and emotional framework through sport.”
Beyond the capital, Lahore is also experiencing a padel awakening. Abid and Abdullah, both experienced tennis players, are now among the driving forces behind padel’s local growth.
“It’s fast, exciting and tests your reflexes in a different way. More importantly, it brings people together in a very interactive settin,” he remarked.
Abid, who also works as a coach in Lahore, is particularly focused on building harmony between the two sports.
“We’re trying to create a healthy balance between padel and tennis,” he noted. “They complement each other — tennis gives you foundational skills, while padel sharpens your agility and teamwork.”
“We’ve already seen several tennis players make the shift to padel or incorporate both into their routines. This crossover is crucial for growing a versatile athlete base in Pakistan.”
The sport’s formal structure is also taking shape, thanks to the efforts of Mudassar Arain, the Chief Executive Officer spearheading the Pakistan Padel Federation.
“In October last year, we received affiliation from the International Padel Federation, and we’re also linked with the Asian Padel Federation,” Mudassar shared. “Recognition by the Pakistan Sports Board is in its final stages as about 90% of the process is complete,” he claimed.
According to him, several players, including Aziz Khan from Peshawar, have already begun competing internationally. “These early breakthroughs show that we have what it takes to compete on the global stage.”
Mudassar also highlighted the explosive domestic growth. “We now have over 100 clubs in Lahore, more than 60 in Karachi, and a similar number operating across the twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad,” he said. “We’ve begun a national registration process to streamline player databases and enhance our club network.”
With such exponential expansion, the infrastructure is quickly catching up to the sport’s enthusiasm. Lights stay on well past midnight at clubs like Padel Pit and the facility at DHA with matches often stretching till 3:00 am or even 4:00 am. This flexible timing allows students and professionals alike to participate after work or school, offering a wholesome alternative to screen time and sedentary habits.
This point is emphasized by psychologist Fozia Kamran, who sees a deeper societal benefit behind padel’s growing popularity.
“We are seeing an increasing number of young people who are sleep-deprived and socially isolated due to excessive screen use,” she said. “Sports like padel offer a healthy, social and structured outlet.”
“Beyond fitness, it improves mood, focus and social engagement. It’s not just about movement; it’s about creating a positive routine.”
The international trend is also feeding local ambitions. The International Padel Federation notes a global surge in club construction and player registration, especially in Spain, Sweden, UAE and Argentina. There’s even growing talk of padel being featured in future multi-sport events, including the Olympics.
In Pakistan, the same momentum is palpable. Inter-city leagues, talent hunts, and international exchange programmes are already in the planning phase.
“There’s real momentum here,” Mudassar said.
“With the right structure and community, Pakistan can become a strong contender in the Asian and even global padel circuit,” he maintained.
With every smash, volley and cheer echoing off the padel courts into the summer nights, one thing is certain: Padel in Pakistan is not just a trend — it’s the next big thing in sports.