In March 2023, Victor Perez Padel partnered with Padel.UZ to open the first padel courts in Uzbekistan. This milestone marked a turning point, not just for both organisations, but for padel across the entire Central Asian region.
The First Padel Courts in Uzbekistan
Padel.UZ secured a landmark location for the first courts. Specifically, they chose the National Sports Centre in the heart of Tashkent, directly beneath the iconic TV Tower, the most prestigious sporting venue in the country. As one of Uzbekistan’s most recognised destinations, the setting gave padel immediate credibility in a brand-new market.
The opening ceremony brought together Alish Alimov, Chairman of the Sambo Association of Uzbekistan, and Aziz Akhmedov, CEO of Padel.UZ. On the occasion, Aziz reflected: “It is a true pleasure to be making history today alongside my colleagues. We are honoured to bring padel to Uzbekistan.”
The Role of Victor Perez Padel
Victor Perez Padel provides specialist business support to padel operators worldwide. The work covers market development, coach education, customer experience, and access to a global network of industry leaders. Uzbekistan presented a unique challenge: a market with zero padel infrastructure and no existing playbook to follow.
As Victor explained at the time: “We are here to bring the padel experience, skills, and knowledge that businesses need to launch, grow, and scale. Supporting Padel.UZ in marking the beginning of padel in Uzbekistan is a true honour.”
Building Coaches, Academies and Operations
Following the launch, VPP focused on building the foundations of a long-term padel ecosystem. Coach certification became the immediate priority. As a result, 80% of all active padel coaches in Uzbekistan now hold a formal certification developed through this programme, a remarkable achievement for a market that started from zero.
Furthermore, three padel centres now operate across the country. Each one runs on the operational systems and academy structure put in place through the VPP partnership. Expansion to additional locations remains on track over the coming years.
A Message from Victor
“My deepest gratitude goes to everyone who trusted me as their mentor throughout this journey. Your commitment to learning and your dedication to the sport have inspired me enormously.
Aziz, thank you for your belief in this project from the very beginning. What you built here will be remembered in the history of padel in Uzbekistan.
To the coaches and players: your progress has been remarkable to witness. Ultimately, seeing you grow, as players, as professionals, and as people — is the greatest reward this work brings. Being your mentor is something I am genuinely proud of.”