From tennis pro to padel pioneer, James Andreotti is helping drive one of the fastest-growing sports in the UK. Drawing on more than two decades as a head coach – many of those years spent in Spain – James brings deep insight, infectious energy, and a clear sense of purpose to the world of padel.
“I coached tennis for 23 years, and I loved it,” says James, “but there were always barriers – especially for beginners. It takes months to start rallying properly in tennis. With padel, you can pick up a racket and be playing within an hour. That accessibility is a game-changer.”
After years watching the sport take off in Spain, James saw its potential in the UK – not just as a physical activity, but as a social and community-building force. “In Spain, it’s not just padel – it’s padel and paella, padel and pizza, padel and a pint. It’s about bringing people together, making friends, staying active. That’s the secret to how it’s grown over there – and it’s something we’re embracing here too.”
Padel vs Tennis
James is well placed to explain how padel differs from tennis – not only in format, but in mindset. “Tennis players come in with great instincts around the net and at the back of the court,” he explains. “But they struggle with letting the ball bounce off the glass – because in tennis, you instinctively go for the volley. In padel, using the glass is a key part of the game. You have to unlearn a few things.”
Interestingly, he notes that tennis skills transfer more easily into padel than the other way around. “Padel is all about control, angles and awareness. Tennis is more about finishing shots and power. I’ve avoided picking up a tennis racket since focusing on Padel – because I know it would throw off my technique!”
What makes Padel so appealing?
The sport’s rapid rise isn’t just down to convenience – it’s about how it makes people feel.
“I see four main reasons people take up padel,” James says. “Some want to make friends, others want to get fit or lose weight, some want to compete, and some just want to try something new. And because it’s so easy to pick up, we can immediately guide people towards the experience that suits them best.”
That accessibility also fuels the fun factor. “In tennis doubles, you can go three minutes without hitting a ball. You get cold, overthink. But in padel, it’s fast-paced, interactive, and social. You’re constantly involved. The rallies are short and exciting. People come off court smiling and laughing every time. You don’t always get that in tennis.”
James Andreotti’s tips for padel success
- Think placement, not power: “Padel rewards accuracy and positioning over brute strength. Work on finding the spaces, not blasting the ball.”
- Communicate constantly: “Talk to your partner – especially on shots down the middle. Great teamwork wins points.”
- Learn to love the glass: “Use the walls to your advantage. Let the ball bounce and play it smart. It’s what separates padel from other racket sports.”
- Play to get to the net: “Two up at the net is the strongest position. Build tactics around claiming that space together.
- Embrace the community: “Padel is more than a game. It’s social, welcoming and inclusive. Get involved, stick around after your session, and enjoy the full experience.”
James Andreotti’s advice before you invest in tennis gear
- Racket weight: “For women around 275g and for men roughly 295–300g. This helps prevent tennis elbow, too light or too heavy can lead to problems,” says Andreotti.
- Brand and frame:“I like Head, Wilson, and Tecnifibre for beginners,” says Andreotti. “They’re really well-balanced. I love Babolat too, but their frames are bulkier and packed with power – great for advanced players, less ideal for someone just starting out. I would say for most women go for size 2 and go up one size for men”
- Strings:“The tighter the string, the more control; the looser, the more power. Beginners should use synthetic gut strings – they’re more forgiving. Most pros use polyester, but it’s tough on the arm. Personally, I use polyester for mains and synthetic gut for crosses.”
- String pattern: “A 16×19 pattern (16 vertical, 19 horizontal strings) creates larger gaps, which helps generate topspin – great for beginners. A 18×20 pattern gives more control but less spin potential.”
- Balls: “I’d recommend the Babolat Team or Wilson US Open balls – both are high-quality options for beginners and experienced players alike.”
- Shoes: “For me, it’s adidas all the way. I’ve always loved the Barricade range – they offer great comfort and support, but it’s a personal preference.”
