The DC Matrix and Mexico Waves take championship titles
Santa Monica’s Barker Hangar held the Pro Padel League’s second event of the 2026 season this past week. This four-day tournament running from Aug. 13 to 16 showcased the sport’s leading professionals. Team matchups for men’s and women’s competitions culminated with Sunday’s podium day, during which the third-place and championship matches decided the tournament’s final standings.
Obsession’s Malcolm Kelner attended the 2026 Pro Padel League Opening Party at Padel Up Century City on Wednesday, August 12th, 2026.Credit: Courtesy of Pro Padel League
With ten teams from the U.S., Canada and Mexico made up of over 40 exceptional players, this second stop of the PPL tour followed a successful season opener in New York City. The Women’s Championship game pitted DC Matrix against the Houston Volts, resulting in a 2-1 set win for DC Matrix players Araceli Martinez Ibanez and Marina Guinart Espana. The Mexico Waves players David Gala and Maximiliano Arce took the Men’s Championship with a 2-1 set win against the Florida Goats.
The L.A. excitement drew stars including Pitch Perfect actress Alexis Knapp, Teen Wolf star Tyler Posey, Obsession’s Malcolm Kelner, Diego Boneta and Jamie Foxx. The tournament will continue in Playa del Carmen and Guadalajara before closing with the City’s Cup Finals in Miami.
Tyler Posey attends the 2026 Pro Padel League Tournament at the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica, CA on Friday, August 14th, 2026.Credit: Courtesy of Pro Padel League
What is Padel?
Padel is a racquet sport invented by Enrique Corcuera in Acapulco, Mexico in 1968. The game combines elements of tennis and squash, designed to be played in doubles on an enclosed court. The mesh or glass-enclosed court and stringless racquets make for a unique combination.
With Padel becoming increasingly popular in the Americas, the PPL showcased the best Padel has to offer to Angelenos. Those interested can keep up with tournament results at propadelleague.com.
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