Sports Stars And Celebrities Spotted at the Inaugural Padel Invitational
Sports Stars And Celebrities Spotted at the Inaugural Padel Invitational
This past weekend, Africa Padel in Brooklyn, Pretoria, set the stage for a landmark event as the inaugural Padel Invitational brought together a star-studded lineup of local celebrities and padel enthusiasts together for the ultimate padel tournament.
The two-day event, celebrating the fastest-growing sport in the world, attracted not only dedicated players but also a host of well-known personalities from across South Africa.
Among the celebrity attendees were Amanda Dlamini, Arno Jordan, Ashwell Prince, Bongani Khumalo, Charl Mc Leod, Claudia Henkel, Iana Strydom, Jonathan Boyton-Lee, Juandré Kruger, Kuhle “Kooks” Sonkosi, Layla Arrison, Mark Fish, Michael Morton, Mika Abrahams, Monique Kruger, Morné Steyn, Pat Lambie, Rob Forbes, Roxy Burger, Rumandi Potgieter, Sasha Martinengo, Schalk Brits, Shaun Bartlett, Siv Ngesi, Stanton Fredericks, Vanes-Mari du Toit, and Wynand Olivier.
Additional celebrities spotted at the event included Jacaranda FM’s Thabiso Khambule and Danny Painter, Carla Mackenzie, Bolele Polisa, Leah Jazz,and Paul Adams.
Their presence cemented the tournament as an exciting new addition to the South African sporting calendar, highlighting the growing popularity of padel and the event’s unique blend of sport, celebrity engagement, and community celebration.
In a thrilling conclusion to the tournament, Ryan Westerhof and Ludwig Gostmann from Benoni emerged as the champions of the main title after a nail-biting final match against Jonathan Boynton-Lee and Siv Ngesi.
Meanwhile, tier two winners Sasha Martinengo and Claudia Henkel showcased their impressive skills and teamwork, proving they’re a padel force to be reckoned with after beating Arno Jordaan and Wynand Olivier.
Founder Kriya Gangiah is both thankful and thrilled at the event’s success.
“We are incredibly grateful to all the celebrities who took part and helped make this event a massive success,”
she says.
“Their participation not only elevated the competition but also brought immense energy and passion, highlighting the growing appeal of padel in South Africa. I couldn’t be prouder of our team and partners for delivering an event that exceeded all expectations.”
