A ‘full-scale’ inauguration, from leisure to spectacle
The format was clear: open the doors and let players get a feel for it. According to Télé MB, the first games started as early as 9 AM, with sustained attendance throughout the morning.
- A ‘full-scale’ inauguration, from leisure to spectacle
- A project relaunched after a permit denial in 2024
- What Padel Dour offers: the amenities that attract both casual players and competitors
- From “gala match” to real competition: what the club aims to establish in 2026
- A direct impact for padel players in Borinage: access, regularity, community
- Key takeaways
- Sources and useful links
The most telling sign: according to Télé MB, the reservation quota was reached for the amateur slots offered during this opening day.
The outlet also notes that two gala matches were organized to launch the venue with a more competitive tone, featuring two categories:
- A Women’s P500
- A Men’s P1000
Without dwelling on scores (that wasn’t the objective), these matches primarily served to test the organization and facilities under real conditions.
A project relaunched after a permit denial in 2024
The success of the launch should not overshadow the journey. According to Télé MB, an initial permit had been denied in 2024, notably for acoustic reasons related to the possibility of outdoor courts. The project was then reworked, which delayed the opening, but without stopping the project’s ambitions.
The chosen solution relies on an indoor complex, a choice that generally facilitates sound management and offers more consistent play (fewer weather hazards, continuous activity, more stable comfort).
What Padel Dour offers: the amenities that attract both casual players and competitors
The center immediately positions itself as a multi-sport complex, while keeping padel at its core. The announced infrastructure is substantial: 7 padel courts and 2 pickleball courts, all under one roof. The club summarizes its offerings in one sentence on its website: “Come play on 2 pickleball courts and 7 padel courts, including a central court worthy of the biggest tournaments.”
Beyond the number of courts, a few concrete details give an idea of the venue’s size:
- 2,300 m² announced, with 9 m ceiling height.
- A 250 m² relaxation area, designed to enhance the post-match experience.
- A mobile application (iOS/Android) to book, create, or join games and follow tournaments.
- An announced pro shop with a “Padel Nuestro” partnership for equipment.
Another important element: the clubhouse and terrace are presented as an extension of club life. A detail that matters, because padel is also built on community: people play, chat, and organize the next game.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 9 indoor courts in total (7 padel + 2 pickleball), enough to limit the “fully booked at 6 PM” effect. |
| Central court | A featured court for entertainment, tournaments, and high-stakes matches. |
| Club life | A friendly clubhouse/terrace area to foster community before and after matches. |
| Services | Booking via app and offerings focused on lessons, tournaments, and events. |
From “gala match” to real competition: what the club aims to establish in 2026
It’s no small matter to schedule matches announced as a Women’s P500 and a Men’s P1000 during an inauguration: it serves as a showcase, but also as a full-scale test. Organization, pace, public reception, rotation management… everything is measured immediately. And it’s often in these details that a center’s credibility is built when it wants to enter the tournament calendar.
Key points to monitor in the coming months
- The center’s place in the regional calendar (tournaments, themed evenings, internal leagues).
- The balance between “leisure” slots and competitions, especially during peak hours.
- The development of support services: lessons, training camps, and pathways for competitors.
A direct impact for padel players in Borinage: access, regularity, community
A new center isn’t just about “more courts.” In an area where evening slots fill up quickly, the impact is measured by very concrete things: being able to play during the week, finding partners, running training groups, and hosting tournaments without blocking the club for days.
In Dour, the indoor model also changes daily life: fewer postponements, fewer cancelled sessions, and more regular play. Enough to encourage the transition from casual play to competition, but also to retain those who are discovering the sport and seeking a simple, clear, and friendly environment.
Key takeaways
- The Padel Dour center opened on January 11, 2026, with significant attendance from the morning.
- The inauguration was marked by two gala matches: Women’s P500 and Men’s P1000.
- The project came to fruition after a permit denial in 2024, linked notably to acoustic issues.
- The complex relies on a substantial indoor offering and a true club life to meet local demand.
