The highly-anticipated Sunbet Padel Invitational, founded by media personality Kriya Gangiah in partnership with Sunbet, is set to debut on 22–23 February 2025 at Africa Padel Brooklyn in Pretoria. Featuring an exciting mix of sport, celebrity interaction, and corporate engagement, this first-of-its-kind event will showcase the growing popularity of padel in South Africa.

The Sunbet Padel Invitational offers everyday padel enthusiasts the extraordinary opportunity to compete alongside a star-studded roster of South African sports icons, media personalities, and celebrities.  As the inaugural invitational draws nearer, the celebrities who have confirmed their spot include:

• Amanda Dlamini
• Arno Jordan
• Ashwell Prince
• Bongani Khumalo
• Charl McLeod
• Claudia Henkel
• Gcobani Bobo
• Hanns Spangenberg
• Jonathan Boynton-Lee
• Juandré Kruger
• Kuhle “Kooks” Sonkosi
• Layla Arrison
• Mark Fish
• Michael Morton
• Mika Abrahams
• Monique Kruger
• Morné Steyn
• Pat Lambie
• Paul Adams
• Roxy Burger
• Rudy Paige
• Sasha Martinengo
• Schalk Brits
• Shaun Bartlett
• Siv Ngesi
• Stanton Fredericks
• Teko Modise
• Vanes Mari du Toit
• Vernon Philander
• Wynand Olivier

Speaking about the impressive line-up, Kriya Gangiah, founder of the Sunbet Padel Invitational, says “I’m absolutely thrilled to announce such an incredible roster of celebrities and sports legends for our inaugural event. The Sunbet Padel Invitational is all about bringing people together—whether you’re a seasoned player or new to the sport, there’s something here for everyone. We can’t wait to kick off the event and share this exciting experience with fans across South Africa.”

The Sunbet Padel Invitational will feature intermediate and advanced padel matches over two days, with plans to expand the event to South Africa’s top holiday destinations, giving fans nationwide the chance to engage with the sport and their favourite stars.

Enthusiasts eager to join the invitational can secure their spot by booking at https://padelinvitational.co.za/shop/. Spectators are welcome to attend the event free of charge, but tickets must be reserved online in advance.

The event is proudly supported by BooYaa Living Golf, Heineken, Jacaranda FM, Hi-Tec and Nordicdots.