A new padel court has just opened in the Erzsébet Liget park in New Szeged (Újszeged), as part of the expansion of the Újszeged Tennis Center – where Nobel laureate Albert Szent-Györgyi himself used to play. Today, the center serves as the training ground for members of the SZTE-Sportmánia tennis team, who are currently preparing for upcoming championships and tournaments.
“The University of Szeged’s Sports Center offers nearly 60 different sports each semester to students as part of the mandatory physical education program. In this context, padel is a new form of exercise that’s expected to generate considerable interest in the near future. From a sports science perspective, it could even open up opportunities for research – including potential studies that compare padel with tennis,” said Dr. Margaréta Tokodi, Director of the SZTE Sports Center. “The new court provides fresh opportunities for both students and staff.”
Padel is a dynamic and sociable racket sport that combines the best of tennis and squash. Played on an enclosed court with solid paddles and a ball similar to a tennis ball, it offers fast-paced action alongside an easy learning curve. Most beginners can pick up the basics within 30 minutes and start enjoying the game right away. What sets padel apart is its emphasis on strategy and technique rather than raw power – points are typically won through smart, tactical play. Its accessible nature and built-in social element make it ideal for players of all ages and skill levels.
“For now, padel is an additional activity in the park that anyone can try,” explained István Hajnal, Head of the Sportmánia Public Benefit Association and coach of the SZTE‑Sportmánia team. “This year, the court is available at an introductory price for everyone; from next year, members of the SZTE community will continue to benefit from this discounted rate. The game itself is fast-paced and physically engaging, yet it also fosters a strong sense of community – since at least four players are needed, or more if they rotate in. It’s basically a hybrid of tennis and squash, though it leans more toward tennis. The 20 × 10-meter court is enclosed by walls, which can – and should – be used during play. The scoring system mirrors that of tennis, the ball is nearly identical to a tennis ball, and the racket is smaller and solid. Notably, this is the first padel court of its kind in Újszeged.”
Original Hungarian article by Ferenc Lévai
Photos by SZTE-Sportmánia
