In the world of padel in the USA, few names carry as much historical weight as Mike May. Recently, the Racket Sports Professionals Association Texas Division (formerly USPTA) recognized this legacy by awarding May the Service Industry Excellence Award, an honor reserved for individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation, and a tireless commitment to the industry.
A Trailblazer for Padel
While padel is currently experiencing a massive “boom” across North America, Mike May was championing the sport when most Americans hadn’t even heard its name. His journey began in 1993 when he was recruited for the first-ever U.S. Men’s Padel Team. Shortly after, he became the first certified padel professional in U.S. history.
May’s influence on the sport is foundational:
- Former USPA President: He served as the President of the United States Padel Association (USPA) for over 20 years (1998–2019), establishing the association as the NGB for padel in the USA and laying the foundation for today’s growth.
- Professional Legacy: May has competed in 13 Padel World Championships, representing the USA on the global stage from 1994 through 2018.
- Club Leadership: As the long-time Director of Racquet Sports at the prestigious Houstonian Hotel, Club & Spa, May oversaw the installation of the first padel courts in the country.
The RSPA Recognition
The RSPA (formerly the USPTA) recently rebranded to reflect the evolving landscape of “racquet sports,” moving beyond just tennis to include pickleball, padel, and platform tennis. By awarding May the Service Industry Excellence Award, the Texas Division underscored the importance of versatile leadership.
The award recognizes May not just for his past presidency, but for his ongoing work as an “evangelist” for the sport. Today, he continues to lead the charge through iPadel Houston, a public facility he opened with his wife, Belén Salcedo (a top-ranked player herself), to ensure padel remains accessible to the general public.
A Growing Legacy
During the awards ceremony, peers noted that May’s vision in the early 90s paved the way for padel to expand, and his work early has been instrumental in Texas being a leader in the number of courts and tournaments hosted.
For Mike May, the award is a testament to a career spent building more than just courts; he has built a community. As the RSPA Texas Division celebrated its “best of the best,” Mike May stood out as a reminder that the “new” craze of padel in the USA actually has deep, dedicated roots in the Lone Star State.