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●R375 000 in total prize money, making it the biggest cash prize amateur Padel tournament in South Africa●Top international talent to be in action alongside some of South Africa’s best, including trailblazer Jason Blakey Milner●To be hosted at the iconic Thaba Eco Estate Sport Centre, south of Joburg from 23 to 26 November 2023●Provides a unique opportunity for local amateurs to compete against some of the best players in the world●In line with Balwin Sport’s vision of promoting a healthier lifestyle amongst clients, staff, and all South Africans 15 November 2023. Johannesburg. JSE listed Balwin Properties (“Balwin” or “the Group”), a developer that cares about environmentally responsible building practices and the delivery of high-quality apartments to its valued clients, today announced that it will host South Africa’s richest amateur Padel tournaments later this month, with a total cash pool of R375 000. Speaking at the launch, Steve Brookes, CEO of Balwin Properties commented:“Padel has taken South Africa by storm and is one of the fastest-growing sports in the world. The important thing about Padel is that it connects people, regardless of skill and physical ability. “Hosting this tournament not only provides a unique opportunity for amateur players to test their mettle against some of the best local and international contenders in the world but promotes a healthier lifestyle amongst our clients, staff, and all South Africans in general.” Well-known tournament organizer, Sebastian Brokmann confirmed that some of South Africa’s top players will be in action, alongside a strong international field. Local superstar Jason Blakey Milner and Keagan Rooy are a strong South African pair to watch, whilst we expect fireworks from Spanish contenders Dani Martinez and Alvaro Matador. Dutch duo Nikander Damianos and Moos Sporken also have a strong chance to walk away with top honours,” Brokmann commented. Other top SA pairings include dual African qualifier winners, Richard Ashforth and Egmond van Heerden. The pair were recently crowned winners of the A1 Padel Africa tournament held in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, a qualifier for the A1 Padel French Masters that will take place from 4 to 10 December this year. They also featured in the Padel Swiss Masters. Brokmann added that the ladies’ category boasts a deep field of exceptionally talented local pairings, including Karyn Hambridge and Izelle Anderson, Jackie Booth and Lucinda Gibbs as well as Debbie van Aswegen and Marne Roos. Another exciting pairing to keep an eye out for are Anna Wysorczarska & Imaan Hassim. Padel consultant, Tournament Director for the A1 African Qualifiers, and affectionately known as the Voice of Padel locally, Paulo do Carmo, will share the microphone and commentate on the games which will be livestreamed. Qualifying rounds are set to kick off on Thursday, 23 November 2023, with the final play-offs scheduled for Sunday, 26 November 2023. The event is hosted by Balwin Sport at the iconic Thaba Eco Estate Sports Centre, a world-class recreational facility with a 6-Star Green Star-rated Lifestyle Centre. The Sports Centre is family-focused and caters to a host of outdoor activities, including two premium Padel courts, two 5v5 soccer fields, an Olympic standard basketball half court, running and mountain biking trails in pristine nature, as well as a skate park designed by South African Olympiad, Dallas Oberholzer. “Residents of Thaba Eco Estate have automatic Platinum Membership access to all the sports amenities; however, the public can now also enjoy these world-class facilities on a tiered membership package or pay-as-you-play basis,” said Brookes. In addition to the superb sports facilities, residents and members have access to additional offerings at the Lifestyle Centre including a fully equipped Training Science gym, Camelot Spa, restaurant, courier, concierge and laundromat services, a kiddie’s gym and pool. “Padel is the second-largest sport in the world after football, and Africa is its next growth center. Balwin has always led the way in sustainable building practices and lifestyle estates, and I believe that our padel courts will become important differentiators in a tough housing market.“In the coming months, we will be adding to our collection, with six courts each at our flagship Munyaka development, at Izinga Eco Estate in uMhlanga, and at Mooikloof Eco Estate,” Brookes concluded. ENQUIRIES Steve Brookes – Chief Executive Officer Balwin Properties +27 (0) 11 450 2818 , Sebastian Brokmann – Tournament Organiser +27 (0) 72 868 5672, Morne Reinders Articulate Capital Partners +27 (0) 82 480 4541

Thursday 24 August 2023 – Barcelona, Doha – Qatar Sports Investments (QSI), one of the world’s leading sports investment companies – and together with the International Padel Federation (FIP) and the Professional Padel Association the founder of Premier Padel – and Damm, the owner of Setpoint Events which organises the World Padel Tour (WPT), have reached an historic agreement for the acquisition of WPT by QSI. Following this agreement, Premier Padel and WPT will subsequently be unified as a single global professional padel tour – called Premier Padel – governed by the International Padel Federation. The agreement is the culmination of months of negotiation between the parties and will see QSI acquire the business assets of WPT. In addition, the agreement will also see the resolution of outstanding disputes between the parties, including those affecting QSI, FIP and the professional padel players who have competed in both tours. Closing is subject to customary regulatory approvals. Throughout the remainder of the 2023 calendar year, the separate WPT and Premier Padel tours will be played as planned, while the unification of the competitions for the next calendar year – forming a single Premier Padel global tour under the governance of FIP starting in 2024 – is worked on. Celebrating its tenth anniversary this year, World Padel Tour, established in 2013, has served as the pre-eminent tour in the sport. It has featured over 26 men’s and women’s tournaments across 14 countries, boasting 17 global sponsors, television broadcasting rights spanning more than 150 countries, and an impressive social media following of nearly 4 million. Premier Padel – the official professional padel tour governed by FIP and backed by the PPA and the International Padel Players Association (IPPA) – was only launched in 2022 and within its first year has become one of the fastest growing tours in world sport. Over 500 players from around the world competed in Premier Padel tournaments in its first year, played in some of the most iconic venues in sports history, including at Stade Roland-Garros in Paris. Premier Padel has secured multi-year broadcast agreements that cover 180+ countries reaching over 150 million households, while the inaugural 2022 Premier Padel season attracted 22.7 million views on YouTube. Over 110 leading professional female players joined Premier Padel in March this year. Nasser Al-Khelaïfi, Chairman of Qatar Sports Investments and Premier Padel, said: “This is an historic moment for the sport of padel, ultimately seeing the two leading professional padel tours unified as one single global Premier Padel tour under the governance of the International Padel Federation – starting next year. As the fastest-growing sport globally, QSI is proud to be at the heart of driving the development of padel professionally all around the world, always placing the players at the centre of our mission to grow the sport everywhere. We are very excited for this next chapter.” Demetrio Carceller Arce, Damm’s Executive Chairman, said: “The World Padel Tour is now beginning a new stage led by QSI, who will contribute to speeding up the tour’s international growth”. Carceller Arce added: “Damm is proud to have contributed to the development of professional padel, making the World Padel Tour a global benchmark, with over 4 million followers. This has helped padel become the world’s fastest growing sport in recent years, with very positive progress for the entire padel industry”. Luigi Carraro, President of the International Padel Federation, said “As the governing body of padel worldwide, we are delighted to see the coming together of two great tours into one fantastic global circuit. The International Padel Federation thanks Damm for greatly contributing to the sport of padel through the World Padel Tour since its inception in 2013. We now look forward to the next fantastic phase of development and growth of professional padel under Premier Padel, which will benefit the whole padel community, including the national federations and – most importantly – the players and next generation.” The new global Premier Padel tour starting in 2024 will become the leading tour in padel, and one of the most exciting projects in world sport. More details will be announced in due course. Source: Premier Padel PR

If you’re a newcomer to the world of racket sports or simply looking for a fun and engaging sport to try, padel tennis is an excellent choice. Padel tennis has gained significant popularity in South Africa, offering a unique blend of excitement, strategy, and camaraderie. In this beginner’s guide, we will delve into the basics of padel tennis, providing you with the essential knowledge and skills needed to get started on the courts of South Africa. Padel tennis is a racket sport that combines elements of tennis and squash. It is played on a smaller court enclosed by glass walls and wire mesh, allowing the ball to be played off the walls. The game is typically played in doubles, but singles matches are also common. Padel tennis is known for its fast-paced nature, requiring quick reflexes, strategic shot placement, and effective teamwork. To begin your padel tennis journey, you’ll need the right equipment. The basic equipment includes a padel racket, padel balls, and suitable footwear. Padel rackets are smaller and have perforated surfaces with no strings, making them easier to control. Padel balls are similar to tennis balls but have a slightly lower bounce. It’s essential to invest in quality equipment to enhance your performance and enjoyment of the sport. Understanding the rules and scoring system is crucial to play padel tennis effectively. The game follows similar scoring principles to traditional tennis, with sets and games determining the winner. However, padel tennis has unique rules regarding the walls, service, and ball contact, which add a thrilling twist to the game. Familiarize yourself with the rules to ensure a smooth and fair play experience. Mastering fundamental techniques and shots is essential for success in padel tennis. Key techniques include the serve, forehand, backhand, volleys, and lobs. Practice proper grip, footwork, and body positioning to execute shots with precision and power. Learning these techniques will allow you to adapt to different game situations and respond effectively to your opponents. Padel tennis is not just about hitting the ball; it requires strategic thinking and clever shot placement. Understand the importance of teamwork, communication, and court positioning. Develop your tactical skills by learning when to attack, defend, and create openings. Analyze your opponents’ weaknesses and exploit them to gain an advantage. As you gain experience, you’ll develop your own playing style and strategies. South Africa offers a growing number of padel tennis courts across various cities and communities. Research local sports clubs, facilities, and dedicated padel tennis centers in your area. Joining a club or group will provide opportunities for practice, coaching, and friendly matches with fellow enthusiasts. Embrace the social aspect of the sport and connect with the padel tennis community in South Africa. Padel tennis is a captivating sport that combines physicality, strategy, and teamwork. With this beginner’s guide, you now have a solid foundation to start your padel tennis journey in South Africa. Remember to practice regularly, seek guidance from experienced players, and enjoy the process of improving your skills. Embrace the excitement and camaraderie of padel tennis as you explore the courts of South Africa and discover the joy of this thrilling racket sport.

Introducing children to sports at a young age is not only beneficial for their physical well-being but also promotes teamwork, discipline, and social skills. Padel tennis, with its fast-paced and inclusive nature, is an excellent choice for young athletes in South Africa. In this article, we will explore the world of Padel tennis for kids, highlighting its benefits, essential skills, and tips for introducing and nurturing young players in this exciting sport. Padel tennis is a unique racket sport that combines elements of tennis and squash. Played on a smaller court enclosed by glass walls, it offers a safe and controlled environment for children to learn and enjoy the game. Padel tennis utilizes solid paddles and a depressurized tennis ball, making it easier for kids to handle and control. Padel tennis offers a range of benefits for young players. It promotes physical fitness, improves hand-eye coordination, enhances reflexes, and builds cardiovascular endurance. Additionally, this sport fosters social skills, teamwork, and sportsmanship, as it is typically played in doubles format, encouraging communication and collaboration among young players. To excel in Padel tennis, young players should develop specific skills. These include mastering the basic strokes like forehand and backhand, learning footwork and positioning on the court, understanding shot selection, and practicing effective communication with their partner. A combination of technical proficiency and tactical awareness will enable kids to enjoy the game and progress in their abilities. When introducing kids to Padel tennis, it’s essential to provide them with suitable equipment. Padel rackets designed specifically for junior players are available, with a lighter weight and smaller grip size to accommodate their hands. It’s crucial to ensure they wear proper sports shoes and encourage the use of protective eyewear for added safety. To foster a love for Padel tennis in young players, it’s important to create a positive and supportive learning environment. Encourage fun and enjoyment while teaching fundamental skills, emphasize teamwork and fair play, and provide opportunities for friendly competition and participation in local junior tournaments. South Africa offers various Padel tennis facilities and programs catering to young players. Research local clubs, schools, and sports centers that provide coaching and training specifically tailored for kids. These programs often offer introductory lessons, group coaching sessions, and youth leagues to nurture young talent and foster their passion for the sport. Introducing children to Padel tennis can be a rewarding experience, offering them a chance to develop physical skills, foster teamwork, and create lifelong memories on the court. South Africa provides ample opportunities for young players to engage in this exciting sport, with its growing popularity and dedicated programs. By providing a nurturing and positive environment, parents and coaches can inspire kids to embrace Padel tennis, unlocking their potential and setting them on a path to an active and fulfilling sporting journey.

Tennis has long been a popular sport in South Africa, but in recent years, a new contender has emerged: padel tennis. Padel, a racket sport that combines elements of tennis and squash, has been gaining traction across the globe, including in South Africa. This article aims to compare padel tennis and traditional tennis, exploring the key differences and discussing which sport might reign supreme in the South African sports landscape. Traditional tennis often requires a full-size court, making it less accessible to many South Africans. On the other hand, padel tennis courts are smaller and can be adapted to fit within existing facilities. This accessibility factor has contributed to the rapid growth of padel tennis in South Africa, with more courts being built and players of all ages and skill levels embracing the sport. In traditional tennis, the game is played with a variety of strokes, including powerful serves and groundstrokes. Padel tennis, however, features shorter rallies and relies more on strategic shot placement, finesse, and the use of the walls. The smaller court size and the solid walls surrounding the court add an exciting element to padel, encouraging players to be creative in their shot selection. Traditional tennis requires players to cover a larger court, demanding greater physical endurance and agility. Padel tennis, with its smaller court and shorter rallies, is generally considered less physically demanding. This aspect can make padel tennis more accessible to individuals of varying fitness levels. However, both sports carry a risk of injuries, and proper warm-up, technique, and equipment are essential to minimize the chances of injury in both tennis and padel tennis. Padel tennis has gained popularity as a social sport, attracting players of all ages, backgrounds, and skill levels. The doubles format in padel tennis encourages interaction and teamwork, creating a vibrant and inclusive community. Traditional tennis, while also offering opportunities for socialization, may have a more competitive focus in certain contexts. Traditional tennis boasts a well-established professional circuit, with prestigious Grand Slam tournaments and global recognition. Padel tennis, while growing rapidly, is still in the early stages of development regarding its professional structure and recognition. However, with the sport’s increasing popularity and the emergence of international padel tennis events, professional opportunities for South African players may expand in the future. While traditional tennis has a rich history and global prominence, padel tennis is making significant strides in South Africa. Its accessibility, exciting gameplay dynamics, and social appeal have contributed to its growing popularity. Ultimately, the choice between padel tennis and traditional tennis comes down to personal preference, physical abilities, and the desired level of competition. Whether you prefer the classic game of tennis or the fast-paced action of padel tennis, both sports offer unique experiences and opportunities to enjoy the thrill of racket sports in South Africa.

Introduction: Padel tennis is an exciting and rapidly growing sport in South Africa, capturing the attention of sports enthusiasts across the nation. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, there’s always room for improvement in your game. In this article, we will provide you with valuable tips and techniques to help you unlock your potential and enhance your Padel tennis skills in South Africa. From refining your technique to optimizing your strategy, let’s dive in and elevate your game to new heights. To build a solid foundation, it’s crucial to master the fundamental skills of Padel tennis. Focus on your grip, footwork, and body positioning. Experiment with different paddle grips to find the one that feels most comfortable and allows for effective control. Work on your footwork to ensure quick and precise movements, enabling you to reach difficult shots effortlessly. Lastly, maintain a balanced and stable body position, ready to react to any situation on the court. Padel tennis demands exceptional ball control. Practice your ball striking technique to achieve consistent shots. Work on hitting the ball with the sweet spot of your paddle, which will maximize control and power. Regularly engage in drills that focus on accuracy and precision, such as hitting against a wall or partner, to enhance your control over the ball. The serve is a critical aspect of Padel tennis and can significantly impact the outcome of a game. Experiment with different serving techniques, such as the underhand serve or sidearm serve, to find the one that suits your style and provides consistent results. Focus on generating spin and placement to keep your opponent off balance and increase your chances of winning the point. The net is where many crucial points are won or lost in Padel tennis. Develop your net game by practicing volleys and smashes. Learn to anticipate your opponent’s shots and position yourself accordingly. Work on your reaction time and net coverage to intercept and return shots effectively. Developing a strong net game will give you an edge over your opponents and allow you to dictate the pace of the game. Padel tennis is a doubles game that relies heavily on communication and teamwork. Establish clear communication with your partner, using verbal cues and hand signals to coordinate your strategies. Develop an understanding of each other’s strengths and weaknesses to optimize your performance as a team. Effective communication and teamwork will enhance your overall gameplay and lead to better results on the court. Take the time to analyze your matches and identify areas for improvement. Reflect on your strengths and weaknesses, noting patterns and tendencies. Evaluate your shot selection and decision-making during crucial moments. Learning from your matches and identifying areas for growth will allow you to refine your skills and make more informed choices in future games. Improving your Padel tennis game in South Africa is a journey that requires dedication, practice, and a commitment to continual growth. By mastering the basics, developing consistent ball control, enhancing your serve and net game, fostering effective communication and teamwork, and analyzing your matches, you can unlock your potential and elevate your skills to new heights. Embrace these tips and techniques, and watch as your Padel tennis game reaches new levels of excellence on the South African courts.

In recent years, Padel tennis has taken South Africa by storm, captivating players of all ages and skill levels. This exciting racquet sport, which combines elements of tennis and squash, has witnessed a remarkable surge in popularity, becoming a favored choice for sports enthusiasts across the country. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind the rise of Padel tennis in South Africa and delve into its unique appeal to both casual players and competitive athletes. One of the key factors contributing to the rise of Padel tennis in South Africa is its accessibility and inclusivity. Unlike some sports that require extensive training or specific skill sets, Padel tennis is relatively easy to pick up for beginners. The smaller court size and simplified rules make it approachable for players of all ages and fitness levels, providing an enjoyable experience for everyone involved. Padel tennis is not just a sport; it’s also a social activity that fosters camaraderie and brings people together. The sport’s doubles format encourages teamwork and interaction among players, creating a vibrant and welcoming community. Padel clubs and facilities in South Africa have become hubs for social gatherings, where players can connect, compete, and forge lasting friendships. Compared to traditional tennis, Padel tennis has a shorter learning curve, making it an attractive choice for those seeking a fast-paced and exciting game. The smaller court size and solid walls surrounding the playing area allow for quick rallies and strategic gameplay. Novice players can experience the thrill of Padel tennis sooner, which further contributes to its growing popularity in South Africa. Padel tennis is not only a fun sport but also an excellent way to stay fit and active. The game involves continuous movement, agility, and quick reflexes, providing a fantastic cardiovascular workout. Playing Padel tennis helps improve hand-eye coordination, balance, and flexibility. Additionally, the social nature of the sport encourages regular participation, leading to a healthier and more active lifestyle. Another significant factor behind the rise of Padel tennis in South Africa is the increasing availability of dedicated Padel tennis facilities and courts. With the sport’s rising popularity, more clubs and sports centers have started to incorporate Padel tennis into their offerings. This expansion of infrastructure provides players with greater access to courts and opportunities to engage in the sport, driving its growth. Conclusion: Padel tennis has witnessed a remarkable rise in South Africa, captivating players with its accessible nature, social appeal, and fast-paced gameplay. The sport’s inclusivity, quick learning curve, and health benefits have contributed to its increasing popularity across the country. As Padel tennis continues to gain momentum, more individuals are discovering the joy of this dynamic sport, and the thriving community in South Africa ensures that its upward trajectory shows no signs of slowing down. Whether you’re a beginner looking to try something new or a seasoned athlete seeking an exhilarating challenge, Padel tennis offers an exciting and rewarding experience for all.

Padel tennis, a fast-paced and exhilarating sport, has gained significant popularity in South Africa in recent years. To excel in this game, having the right footwear is essential. Padel tennis shoes offer the perfect blend of comfort, stability, and grip, ensuring you can maneuver swiftly on the court. In this article, we will explore three of the best Padel tennis shoes available in South Africa, allowing you to make an informed choice and enhance your performance on the court. When it comes to sports footwear, Adidas is a brand that needs no introduction. The Adidas Adizero Ubersonic 4 is a top-tier option for Padel tennis players. These shoes are designed to provide exceptional stability, support, and speed. The Ubersonic 4 features a lightweight upper, crafted from breathable materials, ensuring optimal airflow and keeping your feet cool during intense matches. The Adituff technology in the toe area offers added protection and durability. The Adiprene+ cushioning provides superior comfort and shock absorption, minimizing the risk of injury. With a durable outsole featuring a modified herringbone pattern, the Ubersonic 4 offers excellent traction and grip on both clay and hard courts. These shoes are a fantastic choice for players seeking a combination of speed, comfort, and agility. Asics, known for their commitment to quality and innovation, presents the Gel Padel Pro 4 SG as a top contender in the Padel tennis shoe market. These shoes are designed to enhance stability and provide excellent cushioning, making them suitable for players of all skill levels. The Gel Padel Pro 4 SG features Asics’ signature Gel cushioning system in the forefoot and rearfoot, absorbing shock and reducing the risk of injuries during quick lateral movements. The synthetic leather and mesh upper offer a supportive yet breathable fit, ensuring optimal foot lockdown. Equipped with a non-marking outsole with a modified herringbone pattern, these shoes provide exceptional traction on various court surfaces. The durability and versatility of the Gel Padel Pro 4 SG make them a reliable choice for Padel tennis enthusiasts. Babolat, a renowned brand in the tennis world, introduces the Jet Padel shoes designed specifically for Padel tennis. These shoes excel in providing lightweight performance, ensuring maximum speed and agility on the court. The Jet Padel shoes boast a one-piece Matryx upper, made from a blend of Kevlar and Polyamide fibers. This construction offers exceptional support, flexibility, and breathability. The KPRS-X cushioning system in the heel enhances shock absorption, providing added protection during intense rallies. Featuring an exclusive Michelin outsole, the Jet Padel shoes deliver outstanding grip and durability. The unique tread pattern ensures optimal traction, allowing you to make quick and precise movements without compromising stability. Investing in a pair of high-quality Padel tennis shoes is crucial for enhancing your performance on the court. The Adidas Adizero Ubersonic 4, Asics Gel Padel Pro 4 SG, and Babolat Jet Padel are three exceptional options available in South Africa. Whether you prioritize speed, stability, or comfort, these shoes offer the perfect blend of features to elevate your Padel tennis game. So, lace up, step onto the court, and let your footwear carry you to victory!

Padel tennis, a fast-growing sport that combines elements of tennis and squash, has been gaining immense popularity in South Africa. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting out, having the right racket can greatly enhance your performance and enjoyment on the court. In this article, we’ll explore five of the best padel tennis rackets available in South Africa, each offering unique features and benefits. Let’s dive in and find the perfect racket to elevate your game! Choosing the right padel tennis racket is essential to enhance your performance and enjoyment on the court. The Babolat Viper Carbon, Head Graphene Touch Delta Hybrid, Nox Luxury L6 Carbon, Adidas Adipower CTRL 2.0, and Dunlop Inferno Elite are all excellent options available in South Africa. Each racket offers unique features designed to cater to different playing styles and skill levels. Whether you prioritize power, control, or a balanced performance, you’ll find a suitable option among these top-notch rackets. So, go ahead and select the racket that suits your preferences, and take your padel tennis game to new heights!

Padel Tennis has gained immense popularity worldwide, including in South Africa. This fast-paced and exciting sport combines elements of tennis and squash, captivating players of all ages and skill levels. If you’re new to Padel Tennis or looking to brush up on the rules, this comprehensive guide will provide you with a solid understanding of how the game is played. With its unique rules and dynamic gameplay, Padel Tennis offers an exhilarating experience for players in South Africa. By understanding the rules outlined in this comprehensive guide, you’ll be well-equipped to step onto the court and enjoy this fantastic sport. So grab your paddle, find a partner, and dive into the exciting world of Padel Tennis! Remember, the best way to become proficient in the sport is through practice and hands-on experience. So get out there, have fun, and enjoy the thrill of Padel Tennis!