Chennai | 7th August 2025
Former India skipper and cricket legend M.S. Dhoni has taken a big step into the world of sports entrepreneurship with the launch of his brand 7Padel. On Thursday, Dhoni inaugurated the first-ever 7Padel Centre in Palavakkam, ECR, Chennai, adjacent to Alphabet School on MGR Salai.
The sprawling 20,000 square feet facility is designed to promote both sport and wellness. It features:
- Three premium padel courts
- One pickleball court
- Swimming pool
- Fully equipped gym
- Recovery room
- On-site cafe
- Sauna facilities
Dhoni was joined by Chennai Super Kings captain Ruturaj Gaikwad at the launch. Speaking at the event, Dhoni expressed his deep connection to Chennai:
“Chennai has always been special to me. The city has given me so much on and off the field, and it feels only right to launch my first padel centre here. Padel is exciting and addictive. More importantly, it’s inclusive and anyone, not just professionals, can try the sport. I want 7Padel to be a place where athletes, families, and fitness lovers all find their space.”
Why Padel?
Padel is one of the fastest-growing sports in the world — a blend of tennis and squash, played on smaller enclosed courts, making it accessible to all age groups. With 7Padel, Dhoni aims to popularise the sport in India, making it a fun, engaging, and community-driven activity.
The Chennai centre will serve as the flagship for future 7Padel expansions across India, offering world-class infrastructure and fostering a growing padel community.
With Dhoni’s passion and vision, 7Padel is set to not only introduce this thrilling sport to India but also create spaces where fitness meets fun.
