Officials pose for a group photo after the press conference.

KUWAIT CITY, Nov 2: The first-ever Padel World Cup for men’s and women’s doubles kicks off today at the Arena courts and Rafa Nadal Academy in Kuwait, featuring the world’s top players under the International Padel Federation (FIP).

A press conference at the Grand Hyatt Hotel, attended by Acting Director-General of the Public Authority for Sport Bashar Abdullah, tournament director Mishal Al-Ansari, and José Luiz, head of the FIP referees committee. The draw for the advanced rounds took place following the conclusion of preliminary matches.

Bashar Abdullah highlighted the Authority’s commitment to supporting young athletes across all sports, praising last year’s international padel tournament in Kuwait for its global success and noting that it led the FIP to entrust Kuwait with hosting the World Cup. He added that Kuwait’s success in organizing international events reflects strong collaboration between the country’s public and private sectors.

Tournament director Mishal Al-Ansari called the event a historic milestone, explaining that the World Cup was first launched in Kuwait and is intended to be held biennially in willing host countries. “Preparations began two years ago, and we aim to demonstrate Kuwait’s capacity to host world-class sports events,” he said.