Padel History
Padel is more than a competitive sport; it serves as a platform for social connection, personal development, and community building.
The sport was invented in 1969 by Enrique Corcuera in Acapulco, Mexico, and has since evolved into one of the world’s fastest-growing sports. Known for its accessibility and dynamic style of play, padel is enjoyed by people of all ages, backgrounds, and skill levels.
At Padel Kosova, our mission is to systematically develop and promote padel throughout Kosovo and the wider region. We are committed to ensuring equal access to the sport for all segments of society, including youth and adults, women and men, and persons with disabilities.
Our Objectives
Our objectives are to promote padel at all levels, from grassroots participation to elite competition; to establish, regulate, and maintain official rules, standards, and ranking systems; to safeguard the integrity, independence, and core values of the sport; and to act as the official governing and regulatory body through the Kosovo Padel Federation.
Padel fosters unity, respect, and sportsmanship, and Padel Kosova remains dedicated to providing an inclusive, safe, and welcoming environment for all participants.
The Development of Padel in Kosovo
The Kosovo Padel Federation was formally established on 28 August 2021 in the city of Prizren, marking the official beginning of organized padel in Kosovo.
The introduction and early development of padel in the country were led by the Federation’s founding members, Mr. Besim Shulemaja and Mr. Jusuf Kika, whose vision and commitment were instrumental in achieving national recognition for the sport.
A major milestone followed with the inauguration of the first padel center in Kosovo, located in Prishtina, representing a significant step forward in the sport’s institutional and infrastructural development.
Today, the Kosovo Padel Federation holds full membership in the Kosovo Olympic Committee, maintains affiliation with the International Padel Federation (FIP), is a member of Padel Europe, and operates under official licensing from the Ministry of Culture, Youth, and Sport of the Republic of Kosovo.
With strong institutional foundations and growing international recognition, the Kosovo Padel Federation continues to play a leading role in positioning padel as a respected, inclusive, and sustainable sport within Kosovo’s national sports framework.
