Eva Longoria’s Love for Padel
Eva Longoria was introduced to padel 15 years ago by her husband, media executive José Bastón. Initially slow to pick up the sport, she is now “obsessed” and travels with her paddles, boasting courts at her homes in Los Angeles, Mexico City, and Marbella.
Padel: A Celebrity Trend
Longoria describes padel as accessible fun for everyone, regardless of skill level. The sport has gained popularity among celebrities, with stars like David Beckham and Cristiano Ronaldo embracing it. Comedian Andrew Schulz also mentions it on his podcast, highlighting its growing cultural footprint.
Event and Investment
WME has hosted celebrity tournaments featuring names like Jay Shetty and Diplo, illustrating the sport’s rising status. Longoria has not only engaged in playing but has invested in a padel team and holds stakes in soccer clubs. Her recent venture includes co-owning the Eleven Eleven padel team, competing in the Hexagon Cup.
The Appeal of Padel
Longoria appreciates padel for its social aspects and relative ease compared to traditional tennis. The sport, which was invented in 1969, has expanded globally, especially in Spain, where the majority of courts exist.
Growth in the U.S.
Padel is rapidly gaining traction in the U.S., with an expected rise in courts from 1,000 to 20,000 by 2030. The Pro Padel League launched recently, capturing the attention of investors and enthusiasts alike, signaling a bright future for the sport.
Luxury and Branding
Luxury brands like Rolex and Prada have begun to recognize and incorporate padel into their marketing strategies, which illustrates its mass appeal.
Longoria’s Future in Padel
Despite her busy schedule, Longoria is eager to play more competitively, particularly in tournaments alongside fellow enthusiasts like Tom Holland, whom she admires for his passion for the game.
This narrative exemplifies padel’s booming popularity, especially among the affluent and celebrity circles.
