Johannesburg was buzzing as the inaugural Sunbet Padel Invitational took over Africa Padel in Brooklyn, Pretoria.
Celebrities and sports stars flocked to the courts, as they were all eager to participate in the ultimate padel tournament.
PADEL IN SOUTH AFRICA
The event showcased padel, the world’s fastest-growing sport, and it proved to be a smash hit with players and spectators alike, according to EWN.
The celebrity guest list read like a who’s who of South African entertainment and sport. Amanda Dlamini graced the event, with Arno Jordan also showing off his skills.
Ashwell Prince swapped his cricket bat for a padel racquet, while Bongani Khumalo was also spotted in attendance.
The list goes on, including Charl Mc Leod, Claudia Henkel, and Iana Strydom.
CELEBS JOIN IN THE PADEL FUN
Jonathan Boyton-Lee also joined the fun, with Juandré Kruger and Kuhle ‘Kooks’ Sonkosi added to the star power.
Layla Arrison, Mark Fish, and Michael Morton were also seen on the courts.
Mika Abrahams, Monique Kruger, and Morné Steyn brought their competitive spirits, while Pat Lambie, Rob Forbes, and Roxy Burger also participated.
Rumandi Potgieter, Sasha Martinengo, and Schalk Brits rounded out the impressive lineup, while Shaun Bartlett, Siv Ngesi, and Stanton Fredericks also made appearances.
Vanes-Mari du Toit and Wynand Olivier completed the celebrity roster, according to Carve.
SOUTH AFRICA’S SPORTING CALENDAR
Jacaranda FM’s Thabiso Khambule and Danny Painter added to the atmosphere.
Carla Mackenzie, Bolele Polisa, and Leah Jazz were also in attendance, with even Paul Adams making time to come and enjoy the Padel.
Their presence confirmed the tournament’s status, making it an exciting addition to South Africa’s sporting calendar.
The event perfectly mixed sport, celebrity engagement, and community celebration. The competition was fierce, as Ryan Westerhof and Ludwig Gostmann from Benoni emerged victorious.
PADEL WINNERS
They battled it out in a nail-biting final against Jonathan Boynton-Lee and Siv Ngesi, and winners took home the main title, according to Tourism News Africa.
Sasha Martinengo and Claudia Henkel proved their padel prowess in tier two, as they defeated Arno Jordaan and Wynand Olivier. They showcased impressive skills and teamwork.
Kriya Gangiah, the founder, expressed her delight.
“The inaugural Sunbet Padel Invitational was a truly star-studded affair,” she said. “We are incredibly grateful to all the celebrities who took part.”
She added, “Their participation not only elevated the competition but also brought immense energy and passion.”
PADEL’S GROWING APPEAL IN SOUTH AFRICA
Gangiah believes this highlights padel’s growing appeal in South Africa. “I couldn’t be prouder of our team and partners for delivering an event that exceeded all expectations.”
The Sunbet Padel Invitational received support from major brands, like Heineken, Jacaranda FM, Hi-Tec, and Nordicdots.
Padel’s popularity is soaring in South Africa, and this tournament highlighted the sport’s inclusive nature.
A NEW FUN SPORT
Celebrities and everyday players came together and shared a love for the game. The event generated a buzz. More people are now keen to pick up a racquet and try padel for themselves.
The success of the Sunbet Padel Invitational sets the stage for future events. Expect even more stars to flock to the courts. Padel is here to stay, and South Africa is embracing it with open arms.
WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT THE GROWING POPULARITY OF PADEL IN SOUTH AFRICA?
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