Cristiano Ronaldo, the famed football icon, is taking his love for padel to the next level with a hefty investment of 5 million euros. The superstar forward, currently playing for Al Nassr, is set to construct a state-of-the-art padel club named "Città di Padel" (City of Padel) located in Oeiras, just outside of Lisbon. Set to open its doors by 2026, the club aims to transform Portugal's role within the global padel scene.
Ronaldo's ambition for this facility is nothing short of grand. The proposed complex will include 17 courts, with 11 covered, alongside two tournament-sized central courts, complete with restaurant facilities, a gym, and ample parking for 500 vehicles. It's not just another sporting venue; it’s envisioned to be a hub where the passion for padel can thrive.
Ronaldo's foray annals back to his involvement with the Lisbon Racket Centre, one of the nation's most prestigious clubs, which he acquired earlier this year. His move to develop the Oeiras club is supported by the Portuguese Padel Federation, which is eager to boost the sport's profile. The plan is to attract elite players and host major events, aligning Portugal on the world map of padel.
His recent activities highlight Ronaldo’s deep-seated commitment to padel. During the Riyadh Season Premier Padel P1 tournament held this past season, he didn't just watch from the stands; he took on the role of broadcaster, live streaming the finals on his popular YouTube channel. This endeavor attracted over 600,000 viewers spread across more than 130 countries, excluding regions with existing broadcasting agreements.
"This initiative is another significant step in CR7's commitment to the growth of padel and support for Premier Padel," stated the international federation. They emphasized how Ronaldo's immense global presence is pivotal for introducing padel to new fans and inspiring future generations.
Since joining Al Nassr and signing a lucrative contract worth 200 million euros annually until 2026, Ronaldo's ties to Saudi Arabia have strengthened. The financial success of his footballing career provides him with the capital needed to push his sporting interests beyond football.
Last year, Ronaldo had already invested 3 million euros to acquire 50 percent of the Ciudad del Padel de Oeiras development, paired with his full purchase of the Lisboa Racket Centre which boasts around 20 courts for padel, tennis, and pickleball. His commitment suggests Ronaldo wants to establish comprehensive training grounds for aspiring players, resembling how soccer academies function for football.
Ronaldo's presence at the Riyadh Season P1 encapsulated his growing influence within the padel community. He was seen mingling with players and even engaged with the world's top-ranked player, Arturo Coello, during private training sessions. These interactions not only bolster his community ties but also pave the way for collaborations within the sport.
Ronaldo is now set to wear another hat—that of ambassador for padel—positioning himself as not just an athlete but also someone influential within the sports industry. His vision, beyond mere investment, is to utilize his platform to raise awareness and promote padel among fans worldwide. This initiative will undoubtedly leave his mark on the sport, ensuring Portugal’s vibrant contribution is felt on the global stage.
Many analysts believe Ronaldo's entry could significantly boost padel's visibility and popularity, drawing attention from fans and players alike. With Cristiano Ronaldo steering the ship, the future seems promising for the growth of padel—not just within Portugal but across the globe.