At Padel Smash Academy, we’re passionate about highlighting the pioneers who shape the sport we love. In our recent interview, Cesc and Julian sat down with Pedro Plantier, founder of Cork Padel and widely recognized as the "Father of Padel in Portugal." Pedro shares his incredible journey from a tennis background to establishing Padel as a prominent sport in Portugal and introduces us to the innovative cork-infused rackets that are redefining quality and sustainability in the Padel world.
The Journey to Padel
Pedro’s story began with a deep love for tennis, leading him to pursue sports across England and Europe. But in 2004, when he first encountered Padel in Portugal, it sparked a new passion. What started as a reluctant try transformed into a lifelong commitment. His pioneering efforts included opening some of Portugal’s first Padel courts and organizing national championships. By 2012, he had founded the Portuguese Padel Federation, laying the foundation for the sport’s exponential growth in Portugal.
Revolutionizing Racket Design with Cork
Pedro’s insight into traditional rackets revealed a gap in the industry: quality and durability. With Cork Padel, he aimed to create a racket that minimized vibrations and stood up to rigorous play. Collaborating with his business partner Nicolau, Pedro innovated a unique approach by infusing cork—a highly durable, vibration-absorbing material widely available in Portugal—into the structure of his rackets. This distinctive material not only provides improved racket longevity but also supports players prone to “padel elbow,” a common ailment among enthusiasts.
The Design Process: Art Meets Science
Every Cork Padel racket undergoes an intricate, eight-day crafting process in Portugal. Pedro explains that cork adds a natural, lightweight feel, which enhances control without compromising durability. Cork Padel rackets come in various lines to accommodate players of different skill levels:
- Classic Line – Ideal for beginners, this line is designed for comfort and control.
- Premium Line – With options in hybrid, control, and power shapes, this line targets intermediate players.
- Supreme Line – Aimed at advanced players, this line is crafted with a cork foam for enhanced resilience.
- Extreme Line – Built for professionals, this line offers maximum stiffness, making it a powerhouse for high-intensity play.
Expansion and Partnerships: The Future of Cork Padel
Cork Padel's impact is growing beyond Portugal, with ambitious plans to establish Portugal's largest Padel complex in Lisbon in collaboration with football legend Cristiano Ronaldo. Set to open in 2025, this massive “City of Padel” will feature indoor and outdoor courts and aims to bring the highest level of Padel competition and training to Portugal.
More Than Just Rackets: Expanding the Cork Padel Lifestyle
Beyond rackets, Cork Padel offers an exclusive range of handcrafted leather bags and top-quality sports apparel, sourced and crafted locally in Portugal. Pedro takes pride in every product, ensuring it aligns with Cork Padel's philosophy of quality, sustainability, and Portuguese craftsmanship.
Pedro's commitment to the sport, combined with his dedication to environmentally-conscious production, is inspiring. His story and Cork Padel’s innovative products embody the spirit of Padel, making it accessible, sustainable, and exciting for players worldwide.
Watch the full Interview HERE