Thursday, March 13, 2025
SAii Lagoon Maldives, Curio Collection by Hilton, in collaboration with GZ19 Padel Italy, has officially launched the first-ever padel tennis courts in the Maldives, making the dynamic sport accessible to both resort guests and local residents. This milestone event marks a significant expansion of sports tourism in the Maldives, aligning with the country’s efforts to promote active lifestyles and world-class recreational opportunities.
According to the Maldives Ministry of Sports, Fitness, and Recreation, the government is committed to enhancing sports infrastructure and increasing opportunities for Maldivians to engage in international sports. The launch of the GZ19 Padel courts at SAii Lagoon Maldives contributes to this vision, bringing one of the world’s fastest-growing sports to the island nation.
Star-Studded Grand Opening with Global Football Legends
To celebrate the launch, SAii Lagoon Maldives hosted football icons Gianluca Zambrotta and Nélson Dida, who are in residence until March 17, 2025. These renowned international athletes engaged with guests through exclusive demo matches and special appearances.
The grand opening ceremony was attended by Hon. Abdulla Rafiu, Maldives Minister of Sports, Fitness, and Recreation, alongside key figures from the local sports community. Maldivian tennis champions Ms. Naba Nishan and Mr. Iqnaz Mansoor also participated in the event, showcasing the growing enthusiasm for racket sports in the Maldives.
A New Era of Sports in the Maldives
Padel tennis, a hybrid of tennis and squash, is recognized for being fast-paced, social, and easy to learn, making it ideal for players of all skill levels. With its rising popularity worldwide, the addition of GZ19 Padel courts to SAii Lagoon Maldives’ sports and leisure offerings provides guests, locals, and professional athletes with an exceptional sporting experience in an unparalleled tropical setting.
The Maldives Ministry of Tourism continues to support diversified tourism experiences, with a growing focus on sports tourism. The introduction of padel tennis aligns with the country’s goal to expand beyond traditional luxury and diving tourism, creating new attractions that cater to active travelers.
A Hub for Sports and Recreation in the Maldives
Speaking about this milestone, Alexander Traeger, General Manager of SAii Lagoon Maldives and Crossroads Marina, emphasized the importance of sports accessibility for the local community:
“Making padel tennis available to locals is a major step forward in expanding sports culture in the Maldives. This initiative promotes healthier lifestyles and provides opportunities for Maldivians to engage in world-class sports experiences.”
The courts are now open daily until 11:00 PM, allowing players to enjoy a relaxed sunset match or a high-energy evening game under state-of-the-art lighting.
Book Your Padel Tennis Experience
With this first-of-its-kind launch, SAii Lagoon Maldives cements its reputation as a leader in luxury sports tourism, combining hospitality, innovation, and recreation. The GZ19 Padel courts are now open for bookings, welcoming beginners, experienced players, and sports enthusiasts to experience padel tennis the SAiiWay.
