Sunbet Padel Invitational 2026 Comes to Durban with South Africa’s Biggest Celebrity Line-up

Free padel event at Sun Padel Sibaya promises two days of sport, entertainment and celebrity action

The Sunbet Padel Invitational 2026 is heading to Durban for the first time, bringing two days of world-class padel, celebrity competition and fan experiences to Sun Padel Sibaya on 10 and 11 July 2026.

Following a successful inaugural tournament, the second edition of the event is set to showcase one of South Africa’s fastest-growing sports while giving fans the chance to watch sporting legends, media personalities and entertainers compete on court.

South African sports stars and celebrities take to the padel court

This year’s tournament features an impressive celebrity line-up, including former football stars Shaun Bartlett, Mark Fish, Bongani Khumalo, Stanton Fredericks and Darren Keet, alongside cricket personalities Ashwell Prince and other well-known South African personalities including Siv Ngesi, Jonathan Boynton-Lee, Nono Pongolo, Roxy Burger, Claudia Henkel, Stefan Terblanche, Wynand Olivier, Rupert Kaminski, Arno Jordaan, Chad Jones, Tristan Moses, Tansey Coetzee and Sed Pillay.

Padel continues its rapid growth in South Africa

Padel has become one of South Africa’s fastest-growing sports, attracting players of all ages thanks to its social format and accessibility. The Sunbet Padel Invitational celebrates that growth by combining competitive matches with entertainment, wellness and community engagement.

Founder Kriya Gangiah says bringing the tournament to Durban marks an exciting new chapter.

“Coming to the coast for the very first time is a massive milestone for us, and the energy we’re already seeing from the local community is incredible. To have such a legendary group of South African icons joining us on the court in such a beautiful setting is a dream come true for padel fans.”