The padel boom in France: heading for the South-East, Paris and Bordeaux

According to the audit of Playtomic / PwC Strategy&, with an annual growth of 31% between 2022 and 2025, padel confirms its spectacular growth in France. The country now has 3 lots (unapproved and approved tracks), according to cross-referenced data from Playtomic and court manufacturers. A dynamic that places France among the European driving forces behind the development of the discipline.

The Southeast leads

The most dynamic region is undoubtedly the South-East of France, with areas like Montpellier, Marseille or the French Riviera (Nice, Cannes, Toulon) in the lead. This area combines several favorable factors: mild weather, a strong network of tennis clubs already in place, and tourist appeal.

Behind, the Parisian region and Southwest (especially Bordeaux) confirm their rise in power, in an urban logic or structured sports entrepreneurship.

A discipline driven by similarities with tennis

The development of padel in France is partly explained by its technical proximity to tennisTraditional clubs were the first to integrate padel courts into their infrastructure, capitalizing on an audience already fond of racket sports. This transition facilitated the reconversion of tennis players to padel, with largely transferable skills.

Powerful ambassadors

The phenomenon is also driven by emblematic figures, like Zinedine Zidane ou Tony Parker, both involved in club projects. These personalities contribute to the popularization of padel, attracting both media, sponsors and occasional practitioners.

Roland-Garros as a global showcase

The reception of the Premier Padel Paris Major in the mythical enclosure of Roland Garros plays a decisive role in the visibility of the discipline. The event, which receives international media coverage, gives padel credibility to the general public and reassures investors.

Franck Binisti

Franck Binisti discovered padel at the Club des Pyramides in 2009 in the Paris region. Since then, padel has been part of his life. You often see him touring France to cover major French padel events.