Marcos del Pilar, a former tennis player turned Padel enthusiast, is making waves in the United States as the Commissioner and Co-founder of the Professional Padel League (PPL). In a recent interview, with host Minter Dial at the Joy of Padel Podcast, sponsored by PADEL1969, del Pilar shared his journey into Padel, his vision for the sport’s growth, and the exciting developments in the PPL.
Marcos del Pilar’s first encounter with Padel
Del Pilar’s padel adventure began in Madrid, Spain, where he reluctantly added Padel courts to his tennis facility. The decision proved transformative, doubling the facility’s income within six months. This experience fueled del Pilar’s passion for Padel and his commitment to spreading the sport globally.
Padel’s development in the USA
The PPL, launched in 2023, has already achieved significant milestones. The league secured TV deals reaching over 220 million households in the US, bringing Padel to a mainstream audience. For the 2024 season, the Pro Padel League has added three new teams – New York Atlantic, Orlando (with Daddy Yankee), and Houston – with plans for two more.
Click here to watch the episode for more on Pilar’s business acumen and consultancy for Padel in the Americas.
Marcos del Pilar’s career goal
Del Pilar’s approach to Padel extends beyond playing to encompass business strategy and player development. He also stresses the importance of education for coaches, not just in teaching techniques but in spreading the culture of Padel. He believes coaches should focus not only on technical skills but also on creating a positive atmosphere and understanding the business model behind the sport. “We are in the emotions industry,” del Pilar says, stressing the importance of creating memorable experiences for players. He’s committed to building an “army of ambassadors” to grow the sport sustainably in the long term.
Padel’s future in the U.S.
Looking ahead, del Pilar is excited about the future of Padel in the US. With the PPL’s growth, increased TV exposure, and a focus on player development, he believes the sport is poised for significant expansion. As Padel continues to gain traction, del Pilar remains committed to his vision of inspiring the world through this exciting sport.
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