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Padel players in Kenya have sharpened their skills and techniques following an intensive three-day training camp led by globally acclaimed coach Fede Vivas Ribas , with support from Air France.

Padel, a dynamic racket sport that originated in Mexico, is gaining traction worldwide, boasting over 25 million active players across 90 countries. Played on an enclosed court with walls, the sport combines elements of tennis and squash, featuring unique rules and techniques that make it both exciting and accessible to players of all ages.

According to the International Padel Federation (FIP), the sport is now valued at €2 billion (approximately Sh267 billion) globally.

The training camp, dubbed the ‘Nairobi Padel Stage,’ offered Kenyan players a rare opportunity to refine their game under the tutelage of one of the sport’s most respected figures.

With over two decades of experience, Ribas holds the prestigious First Grade of Padel Master Trainer certification from Adidas International and has served as the coaching director of the Royal Padel Academy.

His visit marks a significant milestone for Kenya’s burgeoning padel scene, inspiring local players and boosting the sport’s profile.

“I am pleased by the enthusiasm and potential of Kenyan players, and I am confident that with proper training and support, the country could emerge as a leading padel destination in Africa,” noted Ribas.

Air France’s involvement underscores the airline’s commitment to using sports as a tool for fostering community and cross-cultural exchange.

“We are proud to contribute to the development of padel in Kenya by bringing international expertise to local players. This initiative aligns with our mission to connect global communities and support their aspirations,” said Hildabeta Amiani, Air France-KLM county sales manager for Kenya.

Padel Kenya, the club that facilitated the training, has played a pivotal role in the sport’s growth since its inception in March 2023. The organisation has overseen an expansion from three courts to approximately 45, with its community growing to 2,500 members.