Cover Located atop the New Wing of 1 Utama Shopping Centre, Ascaro Padel & Social Club’s four glass-walled courts offer a panoramic, almost cinematic view of Kuala Lumpur (Photo: Ascaro Padel & Social Club)

From skyline views to exclusive social hubs, these are the ultimate destinations for the game

Picture this: a game that’s fast-paced but social, competitive but wildly fun, and where the right mix of finesse and flair can make or break your winning streak. That’s padel—the effortlessly chic cousin of tennis—sweeping through elite circles and taking the country by storm. 

While its roots trace back to 1960s Mexico and once a niche sport tucked within the private circles of Europe’s elite, padel has now arrived in Malaysia with a sophisticated twist, attracting tastemakers, high-flying executives, and sports enthusiasts who crave both competition and community. It is a marker of taste, a medium of engagement, a language spoken fluently among those who know.

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If you’re looking for the most stylish spots to hone your backhand, here are must-visit venues. Whichever court you choose, one thing is clear: padel in Malaysia isn’t just another fitness trend—it’s the new status sport. 

So, grab your racket, step onto the court, and serve up a great game.

Ascaro Padel & Social Club

Floating above the New Wing of 1 Utama Shopping Centre, Ascaro Padel & Social Club takes the sport to new heights—literally. With four rooftop courts framed by floor-to-ceiling glass walls, players get a cinematic backdrop of Kuala Lumpur’s skyline as they rally under open skies. But ASCARO is more than a court; it’s a statement. The crowd? A curated mix of entrepreneurs, creatives, and tastemakers who come for the game but stay for the Mediterranean restaurant and bar, where post-match aperitifs are as much a part of the ritual as the game itself. If you are playing for the social cachet, for the curated experience, for the seamless integration of sport and style, then Ascaro is your arena.

Padelground

For those who treat padel as both sport and art, Padelground is the destination of choice. Its high-tech courts offer professional-grade playing surfaces that mirror those found in international tournaments. Whether you’re here to sharpen your technique or indulge in an elegant escape from the daily grind, Padelground delivers with a quiet luxury that speaks to those who know the game is just as much about control as it is about strength. If your obsession runs deep, if padel is not a hobby but a calling, Padelground is where you belong. 

Joy Division Padel

Located in Petaling Jaya, Joy Division Padel isn’t your traditional court. This air-conditioned indoor space is instantly recognisable for its vivid purple courts, a playful departure from the usual greens and blues. Beyond the courts, there’s a Japanese café and bar, a gym, and even recovery facilities like a sauna and ice bath, making it one of the most well-rounded sports hubs in the country. If you crave a game with edge, with culture, with the subtle promise that you are part of something cooler than what the mainstream yet understands, then Joy Division Padel is your place.

One & Only Desaru Coast

As part of its elite sports facilities within Club One at The One & Only Desaru Coast, the world-class padel court here is designed for both casual players and seasoned enthusiasts, with tailored coaching sessions led by Lukman Hakim, a former Malaysian national player. In collaboration with luxury padel and social club Ascaro, the resort provides exclusive perks for players, including access to premium equipment and private lessons. Guests can enjoy matches under the sun or evening sessions under the lights, making it an exceptional padel destination on Malaysia’s scenic coastline.

The Els Club Teluk Datai

The Els Club Teluk Datai, located on Langkawi, has recently expanded its recreational offerings by introducing padel tennis courts. As of January 2025, these courts are open to the public, amidst the club's breathtaking natural surroundings. Players can enjoy matches set against the backdrop of lush rainforests and the serene Andaman Sea. 

Lynette Ow
Editor-in-Chief, Tatler Malaysia
Tatler Asia
Lynette_Ow

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Lynette loves travelling and dancing to Latin music almost as much as she enjoys period films and pastry desserts. She is constantly in search of the perfect nude lipstick and finds her best ideas through walks in nature.

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As the Editor-in-Chief of Tatler Malaysia, Lynette leads the content teams for print, digital and social media platforms of the brand. She has over 20 years experience in media, having been editorial director and editor-in-chief for lifestyle titles such as Cleo, ELLE, Esquire, Men’s Health, and Women’s Health.

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