The world of padel is about to ignite as the Red Bull Rally Pro lands at the Red Bull Rally Padel Arena at TOPCOURT in Melbourne from January 17–19 2025.
This action-packed event will cap off the largest celebration of padel Australia has ever seen, following the Australian and Melbourne Padel Opens earlier this month.
Get ready to witness the world's best players in this adrenaline-charged tournament, with exhibition matches and surprises still to come.
Before you head to the AO's newest precinct, learn about one of the fastest growing sports in the world.
What Is Padel?
Padel, often described as a fusion of tennis and squash, is a dynamic racquet sport that originated in Mexico in the 1960s. Played on a smaller enclosed court, the game emphasises strategy, precision, and teamwork. The unique feature of the padel court is its glass walls, which players can use to rebound shots, adding an extra layer of complexity and excitement to the game.
Typically played in doubles, the sport is gaining global popularity, with nations like Spain and Argentina leading the charge.
Now, Australia is joining the movement with events like the Red Bull Rally Pro, spotlighting this electrifying game.
How Padel Is Scored
The scoring system in padel mirrors that of tennis:
- Points per game: Love (0), 15, 30, 40, and Game. A game must be won by at least two points.
- Games per set: To win a set, a team must secure six games with a two-game advantage.
- Match structure: Most matches are best-of-three sets.
- Tiebreaks: If the score in a set reaches 6-6, a tiebreak is played. The first team to reach 7 points (with a two-point lead) wins the set.
Red Bull Rally Pro Schedule Highlights
The tournament will showcase intense battles between elite pairs, including standout teams like Australia’s own Patrick Rafter and Jonas Björkman, and international stars such as Catherine Rose and Aimee Gibson from Great Britain.
With the competition spanning three days, each packed with thrilling matches, fans can expect a festival of skill and sportsmanship.
Whether you're a seasoned padel fan or a curious newcomer, the Red Bull Rally Pro promises to deliver unmatched entertainment. The event isn't just about the game—it’s about the energy, atmosphere, and community that make padel one of the fastest-growing sports worldwide.
Stay tuned for updates on exhibition matches and head to ausopen.com/RedBull-rally-pro for more details.