The NextGen of padel debuts in Bahrain at the ISF Gymnasiade 2024

A new milestone for padel on its path to joining major sporting events. Today, October 23, the ISF Gymnasiade 2024 kicks off in Manama, Bahrain. This event, organized by the International School Sport Federation, which operates under the International Olympic Committee, will run until October 31. The ISF Gymnasiade will bring together more than 3,600 students from 71 countries worldwide, competing in 26 different sports disciplines. For the first time, padel will be one of them, with around 50 athletes representing the following countries: Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Chile, United Arab Emirates, Iran, Mexico, and Hungary. This debut marks a new point of contact between padel and the Olympic dream.

Beyond competition, the event embodies a convergence of youth, talent, and a spirit of cooperation. These are values strongly promoted by the International Padel Federation (FIP) and national federations, which view the NextGen as a pillar for building the future of padel. The debut of the “parejas” is scheduled for Friday morning, with matches continuing until Tuesday, October 29. All sports disciplines will observe a single rest day on Sunday, October 27, for the Cultural Day, during which athletes will explore the sights and culture of Bahrain. Additionally, the Nations Night will take place, where each delegation will have its own stand to present their country. This is a unique opportunity for exchange and sharing among young athletes, in line with the principles and values of Olympic sports, while padel enjoys another prominent platform to captivate audiences and attract new enthusiasts from all corners of the world.