SOUTH AFRICA – The Sunbet Padel Invitational, a first for South Africa, is set to debut in February 2025.
Spearheaded by media personality Kriya Gangiah and backed by Sunbet, this two-day event promises an exhilarating mix of competitive padel, celebrity participation, and corporate networking.
Padel, a sport experiencing rapid growth in South Africa, has captured the interest of players nationwide.
From the construction of the first padel court in late 2020 to a remarkable rise to over 400 courts by April 2024, its popularity is evident. Playtomic, a leading booking platform, reports more than 100,000 South Africans have embraced the sport.
“The growth of padel has been phenomenal,” Gangiah shared. “It’s exciting to see a community emerge around this sport. With the Sunbet Padel Invitational, we aim to bring this excitement to new regions and fans, giving everyone a chance to experience the thrill of padel alongside their favorite celebrities.”
The inaugural tournament will take place on February 22-23, 2025, at Time Square’s Africa Padel Brooklyn in Pretoria. Confirmed celebrity participants include former rugby star Schalk Brits, cricketer Ashwell Prince, and sports presenter Mika Abrahams, among others.
The event welcomes both intermediate and advanced players to compete with and against these icons, offering a unique sports experience.
Ben Allworth, Sunbet’s VIP Manager, expressed the brand’s enthusiasm for this endeavor. “We’re excited to partner in this groundbreaking event. It’s a fantastic opportunity to engage with South Africa’s sporting community while delivering a premium experience to fans and businesses alike.”
Following its Pretoria debut, the tournament will tour premier destinations across South Africa. The aim is to spotlight padel in regions where the sport is still gaining traction, further solidifying its presence in the country.
Corporate partnerships and sponsorships are key to the Invitational’s success. BooYaa Living Golf and other prominent brands have already pledged their support.
Such events not only promote the sport but also contribute to the broader economy by driving tourism, job creation, and local spending.
Global trends in high-end sports
Padel’s rise mirrors trends seen in golf, another high-end sport that significantly influences hospitality and tourism.
The global padel market, valued at US$327 million in 2022, is projected to grow by nearly 10% annually through 2027. Similarly, golf tourism is booming, with its market expected to surpass US$41 billion by 2030.
Events like the Sunbet Padel Invitational showcase the economic and social impact of sports, blending recreation with business opportunities.
As Gangiah aptly put it, “This is more than just a game—it’s a chance to bring people together and celebrate the spirit of sport.”
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