Building Padel’s Third Space: Memberships, Community, and Growth with Diego Campos (JOPS04E06)

In this episode of JOY OF PADEL, Minter Dial welcomes Diego Campos, a seasoned padel player, investor, and key figure in the explosive growth of padel in the United States. Based in Miami but originally from Mexico City—where padel finds its roots—Diego Campos brings both personal passion and deep strategic insight to the conversation. The exchange traces Diego Campos's journey from competitive tennis to falling in love with padel, sharing the transition’s challenges and unique joys. Together, the pair explore how Miami’s padel landscape has evolved from two humble clubs to a vibrant scene, and why padel’s blend of fun, competition, and community continues to win converts around the world. With Diego Campos also at the helm of Sunrise Capital, a pioneering sports investment fund specializing in padel, the discussion delves into what it takes to scale clubs in the US market, how to build “third spaces” that attract and retain players, and why focusing on amateur leagues and high-quality coaching is key to sustaining growth. He unpacks the business side of padel—including the role of brand, membership models, and infrastructure—and reveals why US cities are primed for the next wave of padel development. The episode doesn’t shy away from the on-court action either. Diego Campos shares his favorite shots, his experiences playing with legends, and personal stories of joy that epitomize what makes padel so infectious. Whether you’re dreaming of opening your own club, seeking smart ways to invest in sports, or simply love a great game of padel, this episode is packed with first-hand anecdotes, practical wisdom, and a contagious enthusiasm for the sport’s bright future. Tune in as JOY OF PADEL serves up a dynamic conversation with one of the sport’s most passionate advocates, offering fresh perspectives and actionable ideas for everyone fascinated by the rise of padel. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices