Padel takes center stage in this exploration of design and style with a focus on one of its newest U.S. power hubs, Xcel Padel. This dynamic racquet sport—a blend of tennis and squash—has surged in popularity across the United States and is even poised to challenge the meteoric rise of pickleball. Its U.S. growth rate currently surpasses that of soccer. Already the fastest-growing racquet sport in the world, padel has seen rapid expansion throughout Europe and Latin America and is now experiencing explosive, triple-digit growth stateside.
In South Florida, the sport has found a luxurious and expansive home at Xcel Padel, which is helping to lead the charge of the sport’s American breakthrough. By opening two of the nation’s largest indoor facilities in West Palm Beach and Westlake, Xcel Padel has positioned itself at the forefront of this movement. Blending elite athletic performance with an elevated social lifestyle, it is redefining how Florida residents engage with and experience this fast-paced, globally celebrated game.
Building a Community
Padel traces its origins to Acapulco, Mexico, where Enrique Corcuera created the game between 1968 and 1969 by modifying his squash court with walls and fencing. In the 1970s, Spanish entrepreneur Alfonso de Hohenlohe introduced padel to Spain, where it quickly became a sensation before spreading to Argentina. Now there are more than 90 countries worldwide playing the sport with an estimated 30 million players.
Part of padel’s global appeal lies in its accessibility: the game is easy to learn and does not demand the same level of athleticism as tennis, making it ideal for players of all ages. Its doubles format also fosters a naturally social environment, helping build community both on and off the court. At Xcel Padel, certified coaches support players at every level. The small enclosed courts along with lighter and slower rackets lead to longer rallies, creating a more engaging and enjoyable experience—especially for beginners. Courts can be reserved for up to 90 minutes at a time, and you do not need a membership to use the club. You can book a court using the Playtonic app and join a dedicated chat group that provides information on classes and other events. The club also connects players, helping to foster friendships and build community. Linda Chambers, VP of Partnerships & Sales, notes, “It’s not just a place to play, it’s really a place where people connect and meet like-minded players. Even if someone comes in on their own, we help to place them into games and clinics and introduce them to others. It’s never been easier to just show up, play, and connect.”
It’s About Design and Style
During a tour of the over 65,000-square-foot West Palm Beach club with Ms. Chambers, she underscores the intentionality behind the design: “We were really attentive to the overall layout and style, making every space feel open and expansive. The beauty is in the wow factor—the ceiling height and, of course, the scale of the facility. But it’s really the height that makes the club special.” That impression is immediate upon entry. The space opens into a vast, airy interior defined by a wide, open-concept design. Interior firms Create + Co and GGGroup Design have crafted an environment that feels both modern and inviting—balancing calm with a subtle sense of energy. There’s no pressure to jump straight into activity, yet an unmistakable excitement builds as you take it all in.
A warm color palette, complemented by bold, patterned black and white feature walls, elevates the space beyond a typical athletic setting. The result is an upscale experience in both design and amenities, without feeling overly formal or exclusive. As Chambers explains, “The goal is to create a space and an experience where everyone feels welcome and included, leaving behind the stereotype of an exclusive club.”
Beyond the Court: Dining, Wellness, and More
Olea & Bloom, is a Mediterranean-inspired cafe concept founded and developed by Philippe Pautesta-Herder, in partnership with Xcel Padel. It is part of Mr. Pautesta-Herder’s broader gastro-padel vision—elevating the food and beverage experience within the padel community with a chef-curated menu paired with premium beverages. Above the bar and lounge, television screens reinforce the club’s sports-focused atmosphere. There’s no time limit on how long you can stay — and with plenty of areas beyond the restaurant to relax or work remotely, you’re welcome to settle in and make yourself at home. Beyond dining, the club features a high-performance gym outfitted with top-tier equipment, along with a spa and recovery suite. Guests have access to dedicated spaces for massage and IV therapy, as well as appointments with an on-site chiropractor. Pilates and yoga classes are also available with club entry for an additional booking fee. At the main entrance, a pro shop carries a range of equipment, accessories, and athletic apparel. Completing the experience are spacious locker rooms designed with comfort in mind, featuring Finnish-style dry saunas, steam rooms, and cold plunge pools. The layout emphasizes openness, with wide locker areas and generously sized showers and bathroom stalls.
The Game is Just the Beginning
While the clubs offer membership tiers of CORE, PRIME, and FOUNDER, they also emphasize inclusivity by allowing non-members to book courts and participate in clinics. Through both flagship facilities, Xcel Padel has not just built courts, it has engineered a new standard for sports-integrated wellness that places South Florida at the center of the global padel movement. Ms. Chambers says, “Our focus is to invite people here, to open doors to padel, educate them about the game the world is falling in love with. That’s why we don’t require membership. Just come in and try.” More information about booking courts or becoming a member can be found here.
