Padel with Pride: UK’s Fastest-Growing LGBTQ+ Friendly Sport

London’s padel scene isn't just booming—it’s becoming a beacon of inclusivity. This dynamic racket sport, a mix of tennis and squash, has surged in popularity across the UK, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community. From local meet-ups to international competitions, padel is sending a clear message: everyone is welcome on the court.

Pride and Padel: A Perfect Match for Inclusivity

Padel’s rapid rise in the UK is partly due to its inherent social nature. Played as doubles on compact courts, it promotes interaction among players of various ages, genders, and skill levels. This welcoming environment naturally attracts LGBTQ+ players looking for a friendly, inclusive space.

The UK’s tennis governing body (LTA) and organizations like Pride in Tennis have embraced padel, hosting inclusive events such as the Pride Month Padel Social at Padel Box Bermondsey. This ease of participation—facilitated by popular booking platforms like Playtomic—has significantly lowered barriers to entry.

Representation Matters: LGBTQ+ Visibility in Sport

Historically, LGBTQ+ athletes often felt excluded from traditional sports environments. LGBTQ+ friendly sports groups change this narrative by providing spaces where individuals can play openly and authentically. Padel, as a relatively new sport in the UK, offers an opportunity to foster inclusivity from the ground up, free of historical stereotypes.

Jonathan MacBride, founder of Scotland’s first LGBTQ+ padel group, highlights that these groups create supportive communities, turning players into lifelong friends. Inclusive sports spaces aren't just about the sport—they improve overall well-being by fostering connections and confidence.

Spotlight on All-Out Padel: London's First LGBTQ+ Padel Club

Founded in 2023, All-Out Padel quickly became London’s flagship LGBTQ+ padel club. Founder Lance Shacknofsky initiated the club after realizing the demand for inclusive sports spaces. Partnering with Rocks Lane in Chiswick, All-Out Padel hosts monthly sessions welcoming players of all levels.

Lance emphasizes the club's inclusive ethos: “We’re gay, but it’s not the most important thing. Anyone can play and is welcome to join our group.” Monthly socials mix casual play with socializing, fostering friendships alongside competition. The club has even partnered with Pride in Tennis for special events, further cementing its community role.

Growing LGBTQ+ Padel Communities Across the UK

London isn’t alone in embracing LGBTQ+ padel. Edinburgh’s LGBTQ+ padel social has flourished since the pandemic, supported by LEAP Sports Scotland. This inclusive club has significantly impacted participants' physical and mental health, demonstrating how padel can spark positive life changes.

In Dublin, Sporting Pride introduced a dedicated padel course for LGBTQ+ women and non-binary people. By addressing intersectional needs, such tailored programs broaden participation and inclusion.

From Local Courts to International Stages

LGBTQ+ UK padel players are also making their mark internationally. At EuroGames Vienna 2024, teams from All-Out Padel and Stratford Padel Club secured multiple medals, proudly representing the UK's inclusive padel community.

Looking ahead, padel will debut at the Gay Games 2026 in Valencia. This inclusion underscores padel's growing global profile, offering UK players a chance to compete internationally as proud LGBTQ+ athletes.

Getting Involved: How to Join the Inclusive Padel Scene

Inspired to join? Here’s how:

• Find Local LGBTQ+ Groups: Join clubs like All-Out Padel or follow groups like Padel Pride on Instagram to discover events.
• Attend Pride Sports Events: Pride Month often features open days and tournaments hosted by groups like Pride in Tennis.
• Just Play: Most UK padel clubs foster welcoming environments, so simply booking a court with friends can be a great start. Find available courts across all booking platforms with Playskan.

Game, Set, Inclusion: Padel’s Pride Movement

The intersection of Pride and padel in London highlights sport's power to build community and promote inclusivity. Whether you’re new to the sport or a seasoned player, padel courts across the UK welcome everyone. Grab a racket, wear your Pride gear, and experience the joy of inclusive play—because in padel, Love All truly means everyone is welcome.