Padel Star Arturo Coello Rises to Global Prominence

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Arturo Coello, a 23-year-old Spaniard, has emerged as the world's top-ranked player in the rapidly growing sport of padel. Padel is a mash-up of tennis and squash that has surged in popularity, particularly in Europe, where court construction is rising by triple digits year over year. Coello, who grew up playing soccer before discovering padel, has partnered with Argentina's Agustín 'The Astronaut' Tapia to dominate the professional padel circuit. With his telegenic looks and dominant play, Coello has become the face of the sport, recently signing an endorsement deal with Swiss brand On, the first major footwear contract for a padel player.

Why it matters

Padel's rapid global growth, particularly in Europe, has thrust the sport and its top players like Coello into the spotlight. As padel aims to become an Olympic sport by 2032, Coello's rise to prominence highlights the sport's potential to capture a wider international audience and produce new athletic stars.

The details

Coello, who hails from the Spanish town of Mojados, was a sports omnivore growing up, particularly adept at soccer. But he eventually caught 'padel fever' and dedicated himself to mastering the sport's nuances, building up his cardio, and turning pro. Partnered with Argentina's Agustín 'The Astronaut' Tapia, Coello has emerged as the world's top-ranked padel player, winning at a torrid pace and drawing comparisons to rising tennis star Carlos Alcaraz. Coello's success and growing fame have led him to sign an endorsement deal with Swiss brand On, the first major footwear contract for a padel player.

• Coello started playing padel in his hometown as a teenager.
• Coello turned professional in padel around 5 years ago.
• Coello recently signed an endorsement deal with Swiss brand On.

What they’re saying

What’s next

Padel is aiming to become an Olympic sport by the 2032 Brisbane Games.