Padel Gains Momentum in South Florida: Hispanic Outreach at the Miami Open Spotlights the Sport’s Rapid Rise.

March 16th 2025

Amid the roar of tennis fans and the electrifying buzz of the Miami Open, another racquet sport quietly made a major statement: Padel. On March 16, an energetic Hispanic outreach clinic took center stage, showcasing the sport’s growing appeal — particularly within the Hispanic community — with a special event hosted by the Racket Sports Professional Association (RSPA).

Leading the charge was Calvin Rivera, Director of Racquet Sports at Lake Nona Golf and Country Club and Chair of the RSPA’s Hispanic American Task Force. Alongside revered Padel ambassador Marcos del Pilar, often dubbed the “Godfather of Padel in the United States,” the clinic aimed to bring together Hispanic coaches and players of tennis, pickleball, and Padel to experience the sport firsthand.

What is Padel?

Padel, though often confused with tennis or racquetball, is a distinct sport with its own flair. “It’s a fun fast pace,” said Rivera. “You’ll see smiles on every player’s face. It’s easy to learn and more about strategy than sheer power.”

Traditionally played in doubles, Padel combines elements of tennis and racquetball but is played on a smaller, enclosed court with glass walls. While it shares some skills with tennis, its pace and style favor precision and teamwork over power.

“Marcos always says it’s not about smashing the ball hard. It’s about control, placement, and keeping the ball in play,” Rivera noted.

A Cultural and Community Connection

The Hispanic community has been at the heart of Padel’s growth. Rivera emphasized, “The most important thing for me is bringing together the Hispanic community. I want to keep promoting the growth of health and wellness within the racquet sports industry.”

Miami, with its vibrant Latin culture and love for racquet sports, provides the perfect stage. “It’s the right place for this movement,” said Rivera. “We’re using this moment to build not just awareness, but a lasting community around Padel.”

Marcos del Pilar looks on during Padel match outside Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium

From Passion to Profession

Padel is not only growing as a recreational activity but also establishing itself professionally in the U.S. Rivera cited Luis Estrada, the top-ranked Padel player in the country and the son of Rivera’s assistant director. Estrada recently relocated to Los Angeles to compete with one of California’s top teams, a sign that careers in Padel are becoming increasingly viable.

Meanwhile, Del Pilar is spearheading a certification program through the RSPA, aiming to professionally train and credential coaches in Padel. “Getting people certified is vital,” said Rivera. “It ensures the game spreads responsibly and sustainably.”

Looking Ahead: RacketX and Beyond

The enthusiasm doesn’t end at the Miami Open. Next up is RacketX, a major racquet sports convention set to take place at the Miami Beach Convention Center. Expected to draw over 5,000 attendees, RacketX will feature on-court activations, tournaments, and educational sessions for both enthusiasts and industry insiders.

“It’s not just a showcase,” said Caroline Rivera of the RSPA. “It’s about community, commerce, and pushing racquet sports — especially Padel — into the future.”

As Padel continues its ascent in South Florida and across the country, one thing is clear: this isn’t just a trend. With its emphasis on fun, accessibility, and community, Padel might just be the next big thing in American sports.

For more information about Padel and the Racket Sports Professional Association, visit www.rspa.org.