The Pro Padel League, a professional padel league operating across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, announced it has raised $15 million in a Series A funding round led by Charlotte Hornets co-chairman and governor Rick Schnall.
This latest raise follows a $10 million seed round completed in March 2025, marking the league’s second major capital infusion within a year as it looks to accelerate growth.
The new funding will be used to expand team infrastructure, invest in player development, and scale the league’s event footprint across North America. The league currently features 10 teams and is positioning itself as a leading platform for both men’s and women’s professional padel competition.
Additional investors in the round include Left Lane Capital, an existing backer known for investments in emerging sports leagues, along with Andrew Schwartzberg and Jason Tillis.
The Pro Padel League has also been building commercial momentum through partnerships with brands such as Frederique Constant and Franklin Sports. Franchise valuations have reportedly exceeded $10 million for several teams, with investors including athletes and sports executives such as Francis Tiafoe, Maarten Paes, Nacho Figueras, and Edward Rogers.
As part of its broader development strategy, the league recently launched PPL II, a secondary league focused on developing future talent. The initiative includes more than $350,000 in guaranteed compensation and prize money.
Looking ahead, the 2026 season will feature five events across North America, beginning in New York City in July and concluding with the City’s Cup championship in Miami in December.
Padel continues to see rapid global adoption, with approximately 35 million players across more than 110 countries. In the United States alone, projections estimate up to 15 million players and 20,000 courts by 2030, underscoring the sport’s growth trajectory.
KEY QUOTES:
“Padel’s growth continues to accelerate here in the U.S. and globally. We’re grateful to Rick Schnall, Left Lane Capital, and all of our investors for believing in our vision for the PPL and the sport’s long-term potential. This investment will help elevate our league, teams, and players, as we deliver world-class events featuring the best padel athletes in the world.”
Mike Dorfman, CEO of Pro Padel League
“Padel is one of the fastest-growing sports in the world, and the Pro Padel League is uniquely positioned to lead that continued expansion in the U.S. The PPL’s momentum, world-class talent, and innovative team model create a powerful, scalable platform. We’re excited to support PPL as it grows the sport, builds passionate fan communities, and establishes itself as a premier sports property.”
Rick Schnall, Co-Chairman and Governor of the Charlotte Hornets
