Mesa has officially stepped onto the stage of one of the world’s fastest-growing sports with the debut of Padel Pals. The racquet sport that’s dazzled players across Europe and Latin America has finally landed in the Valley, bringing with it a rush of fast-paced rallies, glass-wall bank shots, and an unmistakably social energy that has helped padel attract 25 million players worldwide.
At Padel Pals, the sport’s momentum is matched only by the ambition behind the 44,000-square-foot space. The club features seven climate-controlled courts, along with a bar and lounge, co-working spaces, and a playful, open-door atmosphere. Entry is as simple as booking through the Playtomic app.
The concept is the vision of CEO Armando Acevedo, coach and co-founder Carlos Pereyra, and professional boxer Oscar Valdez. Together, they’ve built more than a facility… they’ve built a destination.
“We built a club designed from feedback from players around the world,” Acevedo said. “Mesa stood out for its growth, diversity, and energy; it’s the perfect place to bring an international sport to a community that’s ready for it. Our goal is simple: host professional tournaments with USPA and FIP, train the next generation, and make sure anyone who walks through the door feels like they belong.”
That blend of world-class competition and community spirit is woven throughout the Padel Pals experience. Pereyra’s Padel Academy offers lessons, free community clinics, and structured programs designed to elevate players at every level, while weekly leagues, USPA-sanctioned tournaments, and “Padel Pals Nights” infuse the club with a festive, come-as-you-are vibe.
“The magic of padel is that it makes people feel like athletes again,” Pereyra said. “You can pick up a racket for the first time and be rallying within minutes. It’s fun, it’s social, and it brings people together. At Padel Pals, we’ve created a space where anyone can train hard, play with purpose, and unwind afterward.”
For Valdez, the mission goes beyond the court: “Play. Compete. Belong — that’s our motto,” he said. “This is a place to build friendships, challenge yourself, and experience a sport that’s changing the world.”
As the sport inches closer to potential inclusion in the 2032 Olympic Games, Padel Pals is positioning Arizona as a future training hub. The founders plan to host multiple tournaments within the club’s first year and aim to expand with a second location in Tempe or Scottsdale by early 2026. Padel Pals is open daily from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. Learn more at padel-pals.com.
