Timeline: 50 Years of Argentine Padel
Padel Is Invented
Enrique Corcuera invents padel in Acapulco, Mexico, building the first court at his home. He creates the basic rules that still define the sport today.
Padel Arrives in Argentina
Argentine businessman Julio Menditeguy brings padel to Buenos Aires after discovering it during travels. The first courts are built at private clubs and country estates.
The Club Boom
Padel explodes in popularity across Argentina. Hundreds of clubs build courts, and the sport becomes accessible to all social classes. Argentina surpasses 2 million players.
Professionalization Begins
The first professional padel circuits emerge. Argentine players begin competing internationally. The Argentine Padel Association standardizes rules and rankings.
Belasteguin Era Begins
Fernando Belasteguin reaches world #1 for the first time. He will hold this position for an unprecedented 16 consecutive years, becoming the greatest player in padel history.