Tim Henman backs padel courts at new Wimbledon site

Wimbledon’s expansion plans could include padel courts on the new site across the road, says Tim Henman.

Padel’s popularity has exploded in the past two years, with over 1,600 courts across the country attracting a new set of fans, including a host of celebrities.

The Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) has run the sport since 2019 and insists that tennis’s participation has not been damaged. And such is the belief that the traditional form of the game is not being harmed by its younger, flashier cousin, Wimbledon’s hallowed turf could soon offer room for several padel courts.

“In my opinion, for the community, across the road, with that space, there could definitely be an opportunity [for padel],” Henman said, speaking at Sky Sports’s tennis season launch event at Padium, a padel club in Canary Wharf.

“I think padel’s a great game. I love it, it’s expanding fast and it’s a game that can be played by everyone. I think it’s a lot easier than tennis.

“The main site is a bit restricted but when you talk about the area of land that you’ve got across the road and trying to do things for the community, if that’s what they want then why wouldn’t you?”

Padel may have been born in Mexico over 60 years ago, but by the end of 2026, the UK could have over 600,000 players. With underarm serves, being able to hit off the walls, as well as playing on a smaller court, it is arguably the easiest racket sport to pick up.

The growth, however, has not been without its critics. Clubs have hiked up prices to the fury of their loyal members, while Telegraph Sport has reported on village residents who have revolted against the “intolerable” noise which has been described as “like being on the Somme”.

Henman, though, does not see padel as a threat to tennis. “I don’t think so,” the former British No 1 and Wimbledon semi-finalist added.

“I think [chief executive] Scott Lloyd and the LTA are wise to take it under their umbrella because, if every tennis club is turning every tennis court into padel courts then you’ve got a problem.

“But I see it as another string to the bow of tennis clubs that more people get in there, more people are playing sport, being active, utilising those facilities, having a drink at the bar and having fun at a club.

“I think it’s a good thing and I’m a fan, I’m a supporter.”

For Laura Robson, the former British No 1, the desire for SW19 to introduce padel courts is a personal one, even if she does not believe it is necessary.

“I don’t think Wimbledon is dying for padel courts. If we get the space over the road, there’s so much opportunity to do a million things over there,” she said.

“Selfishly, it’d be very beneficial because I always struggle to get a court, so it’d be very handy.”

Sky Sports will show live coverage from Indian Wells and the Miami Open in March