In an engaging conversation on the Joy of Padel podcast, British #2 padel player and Pro Padel League champion Tia Norton reveals her remarkable journey in the sport, with host, Minter Dial, from her early beginnings to her recent triumph in North America.
Tia Norton’s Padel story
Known initially as “Poker Face” for her emotionless demeanor on the court, Norton’s Padel journey began at age 12 when a former tennis coach invited her to try the sport at a club in Birmingham.
Within weeks of her first game, she was selected for GB team trials and competed in the Mexico World Championships for the junior team, reaching the quarterfinals. Her dedication to the sport led to an intensive schedule of flying to Spain every weekend – departing Friday after school, training Saturday and Sunday, and returning Monday morning just in time for classes.
Why choose Padel over tennis?
When asked about choosing Padel over tennis, Norton explains it came down to pure enjoyment. “In tennis, there was a lot of cheating, parents getting involved when I was at tournaments,” she recalls, “ultimately, I was a kid who just wanted to enjoy some sport.” Eight years later, that decision has clearly paid off.
Tia Norton’s Padel adventures
The episode features several entertaining stories, including a memorable match during the Pro Padel League in America. Playing against the Miami team, Norton and her partner repeatedly hit an opponent, so many times that the player created a post-match video compilation set to “Hit Me Baby One More Time.”
The highlight of Norton’s career thus far came with her Vegas team’s victory in the Pro Padel League. Despite not knowing her teammates before the competition, five weeks of living and training together in Tampa forged an unbreakable bond. “Our team owner said from the beginning that all he wanted us to do throughout the duration of that event was to play with our hearts,” Norton shares, “And there we did it; we ended up winning.”
Tia Norton’s Joy in Padel
Throughout the conversation, Norton offers insights into her game, including her signature backhand drop shot, which she describes as her “signature shot to a tee.” She draws inspiration from top players like Marta Ortega, whom she met at age 13-14, and Agustín Tapia, whose creative shot-making particularly resonates with her own style of play.
Looking to the future, Norton remains ambitious: “Everyone’s dream is to be the best in the world,” she says, hoping that she can inspire the next generation to pick up a racket. Currently competing on the FIP tour with Stephanie Weterings, Norton continues to develop her game while contributing to Padel’s growing popularity.
Please tune in to hear the full conversation, including Norton’s thoughts on the technical aspects of Padel, her most embarrassing on-court moment, and the valuable life lessons she’s learned through the sport.
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