Enrique Corcuera inventor of padel and his story in Mexico
Discover how Enrique Corcuera invented padel in 1969 in Acapulco and turned a simple idea into one of the world’s fastest-growing sports.
Andrea
October 1, 2025
The Mexican Who Changed the Game from His Backyard
When we think of great Mexican inventors, we often imagine scientists or engineers. But Enrique Corcuera, the inventor of padel, wasn’t either of those. Still, he achieved something remarkable: he created a new sport right in his own backyard. He became known as the inventor of padel, one of the fastest-growing sports in the world.
Who Was Enrique Corcuera?
Unlike other public figures, Enrique Corcuera never sought fame or fortune. He was a Mexican businessman, who loved the ocean, family gatherings, and sports. In Acapulco, Guerrero, he welcomed his friends and enjoyed playing tennis recreationally.
But there was one problem: he didn’t have enough space to build a traditional tennis court.
The Birth of Padel
In 1969, Corcuera wanted a tennis court at his home, but the land was too small, surrounded by walls and shrubs. Instead of giving up, he decided to create a game adapted to the space.
He had a closed court built with walls at the back and fences on the sides. The game required a tennis ball and solid wooden paddles instead of regular rackets. The rules were simple: the ball could bounce off the walls and remain in play.
The result was a new and easy-to-learn sport. Without realizing it, Enrique Corcuera had invented padel as a practical solution to a limited space.
What Inspired Him?
Rather than a person, it was the desire to spend quality time with family and friends that inspired Corcuera. He wanted an activity that was physical, uncomplicated, and fun for everyone.
Corcuera was not an inventor in the academic sense, but he had vision, creativity, and a passion for connection. What started as a passing idea turned into something great.
How Did It Go Global?
One of Corcuera’s close friends, Spanish aristocrat Alfonso de Hohenlohe, was captivated by the sport when visiting him in Acapulco. Once back in Spain, he built the first padel courts in Marbella and introduced the game to Europe. From there, it spread to the rest of the world.
Meanwhile, Enrique Corcuera stayed away from the spotlight, quietly watching how his sport grew into something big. He never patented the game or claimed royalties. For him, the greatest satisfaction was knowing that something born in his garden was bringing thousands of people together.
Mall Gran México Export
Can you imagine one of your ideas reaching as far as Enrique Corcuera’s did? If you’re a creator, a dreamer, or an entrepreneur, your story can also inspire the world.
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❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Enrique Corcuera and Padel
Where was Enrique Corcuera born?
In Acapulco, Guerrero, Mexico. His exact birth date has not been publicly documented.
Why did he invent padel?
Because he didn’t have enough space for a traditional tennis court, so he came up with a practical alternative.
When was padel invented?
In 1969, at Enrique Corcuera’s home in Acapulco.
What type of rackets were used in the beginning?
Solid wooden paddles, similar to the ones still used today, without strings.
Did Enrique Corcuera patent padel?
No. He never registered the sport. It was a spontaneous creation, never intended for profit.
