Pop Tennis vs. Padel: What's the Difference?

Pop Tennis and Padel are two racquet sports that are often confused with each other. However, there are some key differences between the two.

What is Pop Tennis?

Pop Tennis (originally known as Paddle Tennis) was created in 1898 in the United States by Reverend Frank Beal. It was rebranded to POP Tennis in 2014 by Ken Lindner and introduced to New Zealand about 10 years ago at the Riverside Sports Club in Mt Wellington.

Pop Tennis is a cross between tennis and paddle tennis. It’s played on a smaller court measuring 15.24 meters long by 6.09 meters wide. The paddles are smaller and lighter than standard tennis rackets, and the game uses low-compression tennis balls marked with a green dot.

What is Padel?

Padel is a racket sport that originated in Mexico during the 1960s. It’s played on a 20-meter by 10-meter court with glass or metal walls. These walls are part of the game and are used strategically to bounce the ball back into play.

Padel rackets are solid and perforated, made from materials like fiberglass or carbon fiber. The balls are similar in appearance to tennis balls but have lower pressure for better control and a slower bounce.

Similarities Between Pop Tennis and Padel

• Both use solid padel rackets.
• Scoring is the same as traditional tennis.
• Both are accessible and beginner-friendly.

Key Differences

• Court Size: Pop Tennis courts are smaller, making the game faster-paced. Padel courts are larger and include playable walls.
• Wall Usage: Padel incorporates the walls into gameplay. Pop Tennis does not.

Which Should You Play in NZ?

Both are fantastic racquet sports that offer a fun way to stay active with family or friends. If you're in New Zealand and waiting for more Padel courts to open up, Pop Tennis is a great way to build your skills and enjoy similar gameplay.

The Riverside Tennis Club in Auckland has hosted Pop Tennis nights for years, using Padel rackets like the ones sold at ThePadelShop.co.nz. Whether you're training for Padel or enjoying Pop Tennis, check out our full range of padel gear from Nox, Sane, Babolat, and more, perfect if you're looking to buy a padel racket or upgrade your setup in NZ.