As South African padel continues its rapid rise, who is responsible for steering the sport into its next phase?
The South African Padel Association (SAPA) has a crucial role to play — from creating a united padel community and developing national rankings to opening the door for provincial leagues, national championships and international representation.
Padel ZA caught up with SAPA Executive Committee member Paul Waldburger to find out what happens behind the scenes and why having an independent governing body could be a game-changer for the sport.
From club affiliation and ranking points to FIP and SASCOC recognition, sponsorship and growing the game beyond its current audience, Paul explains SAPA’s vision for taking South African padel to the next level.
With the sport already experiencing unprecedented growth, the question is no longer whether padel is going to get bigger — but how big it can become.