From Padel to Pickleball: the New Obsession Among Racket Sport Players

For years, padel has dominated the courts—and the WhatsApp chats. Tournaments, rankings, epic rally videos... it became a lifestyle. But recently, a strange new word started showing up in conversations: pickleball.

At first, people were skeptical. Then curious. And now? Plenty of padel players are splitting their time between both sports.

So what’s so special about pickleball?

At first glance, it looks like a simpler version of tennis—or maybe a mix between ping pong and padel. But once you pick up a paddle and step on the court, it’s clear: pickleball has its own identity.

It’s easier on the body, but still dynamic. More accessible, yet surprisingly strategic. And perhaps its biggest strength: it’s fun from the very first game.

A natural next step for padel players

If you already play padel, you’ll feel right at home on a pickleball court. Your movement, court awareness and reflexes will help—but the game will still challenge you in new ways.

In pickleball, power isn’t everything. It’s about control, patience and smart shot placement. And that’s what many padel players love about it: you’re still competing, but in a completely different style.

A growing community

Interestingly, many of Portugal’s early pickleball fans aren’t coming from tennis—they’re coming from padel. These are players looking for variety, recovering from injuries, or simply curious to try something new.

And they’re finding a sport that’s addictive, social and welcoming. Abroad—especially in the US—it’s already a huge phenomenon. In Portugal, it’s still new, but more clubs are building courts and more players are joining in every week.

Now is the time

If you love racket sports, pickleball isn’t a trend—it’s an opportunity. A chance to play more, learn fast, and be part of a new movement right from the start.

What you’ll find: fast-paced games, lots of fun, constant improvement—and less strain on the body, which means you can play more often.

Tieplayer is already on board

At Tieplayer, we live and breathe racket sports. And we believe pickleball is here to stay. That’s why we’re already working to help the sport grow in Portugal, alongside players, coaches and clubs.

With tools like Tieplayer, Tiecoach, and Tiemanager, we’re supporting clubs that want to offer pickleball—and players who want to play more.

Looking for places to play pickleball in Portugal?
Or managing a club and thinking about introducing the sport?
Get in touch with Tiesports — let’s grow the game together.