Innovating Padel: The Story of Cork Racquets and Pedro Plantier’s Passion for the Game (JOPS04E13)

Innovating Padel: The Story of Cork Racquets and Pedro Plantier’s Passion for the Game (JOPS04E13)

July 15, 2026 · 38 min · Season 4 · Episode 13

About this episode

Pedro Plantier shares his journey from tennis to becoming a key figure in the padel community and discusses the innovative aspects of his brand, Cork.

In this episode of Joy of Padel, we delve into the fascinating journey of Pedro Plantier, founder and CEO of Cork, and a true enthusiast whose passion for sport led him from a professional tennis background to becoming a pioneering force in the world of padel. Pedro Plantier recounts his early days discovering the game in Portugal, his transition from tennis, and the challenges of mastering the unique defensive skills that set padel apart. The conversation focuses on the evolution of technique, especially the critical role of the back wall, and how repetition and perseverance helped Pedro Plantier—and countless students—embrace the nuances that separate padel from other racquet sports. A key theme that emerged is the inclusive and accessible nature of padel, where players of all ages and abilities can compete and find community. The discussion explored how infrastructures, funding, and the club culture in Spain and Portugal have impacted the sport's growth and accessibility. Pedro Plantier also opens up about the creation of his innovative brand, Cork, spotlighting the rigorous process of designing arm-friendly, high-quality racquets using sustainable materials, and building a…

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