SYDNEY – Gucci and Waldorf Astoria have teamed up with the International Padel Federation and Padel Australia for the first major showcase of the world’s fastest rising racquet sport in the country.
On Saturday and Sunday, the Padel Invitational will be staged on a custom-built glass court on the Northern Broadwalk of the Sydney Opera House.
Presented by UBS and heavily promoted by Tennis Australia, the event will see international padel stars such as former world No.1’s Juan Martin Diaz, Alejandra Salazar and Maxi Sánchez competing in exhibition matches.
Other highlights include a Celebrity 1 Point Padel tournament featuring Australian celebrities such as former tennis world No. 1 Pat Rafter; 16-time Grand Slam doubles champion Todd Woodbridge; ‘Dune: Prophesy’, ‘Heartbreak High’ and ‘Off Campus’ actor Josh Heuston; and model Bambi Northwood-Blyth.
“Creating a padel event at the Sydney Opera House is a powerful way to showcase the sport on an iconic stage and with Brisbane 2032 on the horizon, builds momentum towards our long-term Olympic ambition,” said Luigi Carraro, president of the International Padel Federation.
