Pakistan is ready to make its debut on the global padel stage by hosting its first-ever international tournament. From October 30 to November 2, the APPT Grand Slam will be held at Legends Arena in Karachi, welcoming top players from across Asia. This marks a significant moment in the country’s rapid padel development, just two years after the launch of its first courts.
Infrastructure and ambition fuel growth
Since the introduction of padel at Legends Arena, the sport has grown at an extraordinary pace. Pakistan now has more than 350 courts, with Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, and Faisalabad emerging as key hubs. Despite this expansion, padel in Pakistan has remained largely unnoticed internationally, even though its infrastructure rivals that of countries like the United States.
Jahangir Khan supports padel’s rise
Squash legend Jahangir Khan, chairman of Legends Arena, has played a central role in promoting padel across the country. He views the APPT Grand Slam as a vital opportunity to showcase the sport and elevate its profile.
“When we started two years ago, there was a lot of interest in padel, but the level wasn’t very high because everyone was just learning. Now, after two years, I see a completely different standard,” said Khan.
“Hosting an international tournament here at Legends Arena will be a boost for the younger generation, especially those who take this sport seriously. It will also give our players the chance to see where they stand. I’m confident that in the future, we might have some of the top players coming from here.”
APPT shines a spotlight on Asia
The Asia Pacific Padel Tour, launched in 2023, has quickly expanded with 34 events scheduled this year. Its arrival in Pakistan reflects growing interest in the region and a commitment to developing padel in new markets.
APPT CEO Carlos Carrillo praised the venue and its organizers: “We are excited to come to Pakistan for the first time and bring international competition to the country. It’s a pleasure to do so in collaboration with Legends Arena, one of the best venues we’ll visit this season.”
Karachi welcomes elite talent
Talal Shah Khan, CEO of Total Sports and Legends Arena, highlighted the importance of the event for Pakistan’s padel community.
“Bringing the Asia Pacific Padel Tour Grand Slam to Karachi is a proud moment for all of us at Legends Arena and for Pakistan’s growing padel community,” he said.
“This event is more than just a tournament—it’s a clear statement that Pakistan has arrived on the global padel map. After Team Pakistan’s debut at the Asia Pacific Padel Cup in Kuala Lumpur and our participation at the Singapore Masters, hosting an international event of this scale at home marks the next big step in our journey.”
Tournament format and registration
The APPT Grand Slam will feature professional men’s and women’s competitions, as well as amateur events in men’s, women’s, and mixed categories. The total prize pool is US$13,000. Amateur players have until October 20, 2025, to register through the official tournament website.
