Free mixing of genders, time mismanagement, neglect of family obligations, and the environment of padel venues, which often includes music, are not in adherence with Islam, the Jamiatul Ulama KZN — Council of Muslim Theologians said in its November 12 newsletter to the Muslim community.
“While there may be benefits, the presence of these harms cannot be overlooked,” the council said.
But the South African Muslim Network said there was no prohibition of the sport and it is all about “finding a balance”.
Padel venues often foster a relaxed, social environment where men and women play together. This, according to the council, runs counter to Islamic guidelines on modesty and gender interaction. “For Muslims, maintaining modesty and respectful interaction in recreational settings is important. This mixing is seen as a potential distraction and deviation from Quranic injunctions,” the council said.
Sports addiction often stems from the universal human drive to avoid pain and seek pleasure. The act of playing may provide a sense of achievement, an escape from stress, or a mood boost, but over-reliance can disrupt a balanced life
— Nazia Osman, clinical psychologist
The Jamiatul Ulama KZN criticised the sport for its time demands, including travel to venues, lengthy matches and post-game socialising. “Islam encourages efficient time use and productive pursuits, emphasising activities that contribute to personal growth, family welfare and society. Recreation has its place in Islam but excessive time spent on it, particularly when it detracts from other responsibilities, can be problematic,” it said.
The council added that prioritising padel over obligations such as work, prayer and family could lead to an imbalance in life priorities, and frequent participation in padel could strain relationships.
“Islam encourages moderation and mindfulness; hence, Muslims are called to evaluate both the positive and negative aspects of any activity. For Muslims, the challenge lies in finding ways to engage in recreational activities without compromising Islamic principles. This might involve setting boundaries around time spent, choosing venues that respect Islamic values, or organising such activities with like-minded individuals in environments that have zero exposure to distractions. With thoughtful choices, it is possible to participate in recreational activities.”
The Jamiatul Ulama KZN did not respond to queries.
However, South African Muslim Network chair Dr Faisal Suliman said there was no prohibition on the sport.
“Clearly, like many other sports, there are boundaries that need to be had. However, to have sports played, including padel, in a way that respects the laws of addressing free mixing and with music is fine. So whether it's tennis, cycling, squash, cricket, football, these are permissible providing that Islamic rules are met.”
He said in Islam, it was a sin to abuse your body, therefore sport and being fit were highly encouraged.
“An excess amount of anything, absolutely anything, is discouraged. So whether it's a sport, whether it's a cultural activity or anything else, if it is taking you away from family responsibilities or stopping you from praying in the mosque, then that clearly is wrong.
Meanwhile, there are hundreds of social media posts from padel players from communities around the globe seeking help for what they call “padel addiction”.
Durban-based clinical psychologist Nazia Osman told the Sunday Times people could become addicted to sports or physical activities, even though the concept may initially seem counterintuitive, given the positive associations with exercise.
“While sports and physical activity are widely recognised for their physical and mental health benefits, over-involvement can cross into harmful territory when an individual spends excessive time playing or thinking about the sport,” she said.
“Time dedicated to sports should never lead to neglect of familial, social, or professional responsibilities. Sports addiction often stems from the universal human drive to avoid pain and seek pleasure. The act of playing may provide a sense of achievement, an escape from stress, or a mood boost but over-reliance on this outlet can disrupt a balanced life.”
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