Padel Tennis Gains Momentum in Thailand Ahead of Asian Games

During the second 'Meet the Press' session held at Rajamangala Stadium on August 26, 2026, the Thai Sports Journalists Association discussed Thailand's preparations for the 20th Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, scheduled for September 19 to October 4.

Among the sports highlighted was padel, a discipline making its debut at the Asian Games. Supalak Chairoj, President of the Padel Association of Thailand, reported that the sport is experiencing significant growth within the country. According to the association, the number of padel courts in Thailand has tripled compared to the previous year. Notably, this expansion is most prominent in popular tourist provinces, suggesting that visitors and residents alike are increasingly adopting the sport.

Thailand plans to send two pairs of male athletes to compete in the upcoming Asian Games. Furthermore, the association noted that padel is slated to be included in the 2027 SEA Games. While the sport's popularity is rising in tourism-heavy regions, it remains to be seen how this infrastructure growth will influence future sports tourism trends in Thailand. The association continues to monitor the development of facilities as the country prepares for its international sporting commitments.