New padel courts have opened at SAii Lagoon Maldives, within the Crossroads leisure complex, offering both tourists and locals the opportunity to get their game on. Olivia Palamountain reports

New padel tennis courts have opened at Crossroads Maldives, adding to the recreational offerings at the five-star multi-island leisure destination.

The state-of-the-art GZ19 padel courts have been installed at SAii Lagoon Maldives, Curio Collection by Hilton, which is part of the Crossroads Maldives complex. The courts are set against the backdrop of the Indian Ocean, offering both visitors and local residents the opportunity to play the increasingly popular sport in a tropical setting.

Padel tennis, which combines elements of tennis and squash, is played on an enclosed court with solid rackets and a low-bouncing ball. The sport has seen rapid growth globally due to its accessibility for players of all ages and skill levels. "Making padel tennis accessible to the Maldives community is a significant milestone, not only in expanding the sports culture and promoting healthy lifestyle choices, but also in creating more opportunities for the local community to engage in world-class athletic experiences," says Alexander Traeger, general manager of SAii Lagoon Maldives, Curio Collection by Hilton and Crossroads Marina.The courts are open daily until 11pm, allowing for both daytime play and evening matches under lights. The resort hopes the new facility will appeal to both beginners and experienced players.

The addition marks a development for sports tourism in the Maldives, traditionally known more for its water-based activities and luxury relaxation offerings.With the introduction of these facilities, SAii Lagoon Maldives at Crossroads aims to strengthen its position as a hub for sports and leisure, combining luxury hospitality with innovative recreational offerings.