Le World Padel Tour bows out after ten years of good and loyal service. A look back at the highlights of the circuit financed by Estrella Damm.

The beginnings and rise of the WPT

Le World Padel Tour (WPT) began in 2013, marking a revolution in the world of padel. This initiative, supported by the Damm group, succeeded the Padel Per tour, introducing a more structured and ambitious professional circuit. From its first steps, the WPT has put in place an impressive calendar of 18 tournaments, with a very popular Master Final.

This structure not only increased the visibility of the sport, but also attracted new talent, raising the level of competition. The WPT quickly gained popularity, attracting big-name sponsors and television audiences, which contributed to its exponential growth and international expansion. The circuit was a catalyst for padel, transforming a relatively unknown sport into a global phenomenon, with players becoming stars and matches broadcast around the world.

Key moments, records and internationalization

Each WPT season has been marked by unforgettable moments. In 2014, the separation of Juan Martín Díaz and Fernando Belasteguín, after 13 years of domination, opened the way to new rivalries and energized the circuit.

In 2016, the WPT revolutionized its communication, partnering with television networks to reach a wider audience. The pandemic-hit year of 2020 still saw the WPT organize 11 tournaments, affirming its commitment to the sport and its athletes. These moments not only strengthened the WPT's reputation, but also helped elevate padel to the status of a globally recognized professional sport. Record attendances and exceptional performances by players helped establish the WPT as an essential circuit in the world of sport.

The internationalization of World Padel Tour has been a key part of its growth strategy. By expanding its footprint beyond Spain’s borders, the WPT has strengthened padel’s presence on the world stage. Tournaments have been held all over the place, reaching new audiences and generating growing interest in the sport.

The final chapter: the Barcelona Master Final 2023

The 2023 Boss Barcelona Master Final was a historic event, marking the end of the WPT. This tournament established a attendance record with 15 spectators, testifying to the growing popularity of padel. This tournament was a high-level sporting spectacle, but also a celebration of everything the WPT has achieved over the last decade, marking the end of an era and the beginning of a new one. It served as a platform for emotional farewells and memorable performances, cementing its place in the history of padel.

Boss Master Final WPT record spectators

Legacy and the future

The WPT leaves behind a legacy of professionalism, innovation and passion for padel. Its integration into Premier Padel, under the aegis of the International Federation of Padel, ushers in a new era for the sport. Players old and new, as well as fans around the world, will remember the WPT as a golden era of professional padel. The circuit has been a springboard for many talents and has played a key role in popularizing padel around the world.

The WPT has not only contributed to the evolution of the game, but has also set high standards for tournament organization, media coverage and sports marketing. Its influence will be felt in the years to come as padel continues to grow in popularity and prestige.

Thanks and recognition

The players expressed their gratitude to the circuit, acknowledging the impact the WPT has had on their careers and the sport in general. The WPT will not only be remembered for its tournaments and records, but also for shaping the careers of many players and contributing to the global rise of padel. The circuit, although often criticized, has been a springboard for many talents and has played a key role in popularizing padel around the world. Players, coaches, fans and sponsors have all played a role in the success of the WPT, and their contributions will continue to influence the sport in the years to come.

Le World Padel Tour ends, but its spirit and influence will live on in the hearts of players and fans alike. Padel continues to evolve, and the WPT will remain a crucial chapter in its history, a testament to its rise from a niche sport to a global discipline.

Team Padel Mag

The team Padel Magazine has been trying to offer you the best of padel since 2013, but also surveys and analyses to try to understand the world of padel. From the game to the politics of our sport, Padel Magazine is at your service.

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