Community Spotlight:
MK Padel
- UK
- Community
- 5-min read
How did you get started in padel, and what’s your story?
I first got into padel around mid-2024 after seeing it constantly pop up on my social media. The sport really caught my attention and I was eager to give it a try, but I initially assumed the nearest courts were all based in central London. To my surprise, I found out that courts had actually been built just 15 minutes from where I live, which made getting started an easy decision.
I come from a high-level squash background and have been competing in tournaments and leagues for around 20 years, having started when I was just 8 years old. That competitive background meant I was immediately drawn to the tactical side of padel, the fast rallies, and the importance of positioning and teamwork. Like most people who try padel for the first time, I was instantly addicted — it combined elements of sports I already loved while offering something completely new. Since then, it’s quickly become a huge passion of mine, both from a competitive and social perspective.
We have to ask – how many football shirts do you own and is there a favourite?!
Honestly, I couldn’t even tell you how many football shirts I own at this point. There’s a running joke in my family that I’ve always had loads of shirts, but no one ever actually saw me wear them. They were basically hidden away for years. Now I’ve finally found the perfect setting to both wear and properly show them off, which feels long overdue.
As for favourites, I’m a Manchester United supporter (unfortunately… haha), so the retro United shirts will always be right up there for me. There’s just something special about the classic designs. I’ve also got a retro Barcelona shirt that’s probably my favourite overall — and it’s still yet to make its debut on the channel, so that one’s coming soon.
What’s the motivation for sharing your journey on social media?
My main motivation for sharing my journey on social media has honestly just been to have fun while doing something I love. I wanted to introduce people to a new sport and show that exercise doesn’t have to be boring or isolating — it can be social, creative, and genuinely enjoyable.
I also wanted to show that there isn’t just one “right” way to play padel. Everyone brings their own personality, background, and style to the court, and that’s something I really believe in. By sharing my journey, I hope to inspire people to play padel in their own way and see the sport as something expressive, inclusive, and fun rather than intimidating.
"I also wanted to show that there isn't just one 'right' way to play padel. Everyone brings their own personality, background, and style to the court."
Favourite part of your padel journey so far and biggest challenge? Favourite clubs?
My favourite part of the journey so far has definitely been meeting new people. Padel has such a unique way of bringing together people from all walks of life, and even before discovering the sport, one of my personal goals was to interact with more people and expand my circle. This game makes that happen so naturally. I also have to mention being able to meet a wide range of celebrities and football icons I grew up watching — it’s pretty surreal. What’s even better is realising that they’re just as competitive and passionate about the game as I am, which makes those connections even more genuine.
Playing at so many cool clubs with strong communities has been another highlight. Each club has its own vibe, and it’s been amazing experiencing that sense of belonging wherever I go — with plenty more still left to explore.
The biggest challenge for me has been a personal one: improving my actual padel ability. I’m someone who can get frustrated when I don’t see results straight away, and padel is full of phenomenal players, which makes the scene incredibly competitive. Learning not to get too upset over losses and instead focus on progress has definitely been a growth point for me.
As for favourite clubs in 2025, Squareone Padel Club, Carbon Padel Club, Rocket Padel Ilford, and Battersea have to be right up there. Not only do they offer incredible padel settings, but they also have some of the friendliest and most welcoming communities in the UK — which, for me, is what the sport is all about.
"The biggest challenge for me has been a personal one: improving my actual padel ability. I'm someone who can frustrated when I don't see results straight away, and padel is full of phenomenal players, which makes the scene incredibly competitive."
What’s next for you, or what are you most excited about for 2026?
Looking ahead to 2026, the main focus for me is to keep doing what I’m doing — enjoying the journey, growing the sport, and continuing to share padel in an authentic way. I’m excited to offer more focused and valuable content for padel enthusiasts, whether that’s around gameplay, creativity on court, or the culture around the sport. I’m also really looking forward to connecting with even more people, including hopefully collaborating with football players and clubs along the way. Another big goal for me is to explore padel clubs around the world, experience different padel communities, and bring those stories back to the channel. There’s so much still to discover, and that’s what excites me most going into 2026.
Interviewed by Jamie Rowe
World Padel Network
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