Ocular Trauma Associated with Racquet Sports: Tennis, Badminton, and Padel

Abstract

Racquet sports, particularly padel, are rapidly gaining popularity, yet evidence on padel-related ocular trauma remains limited and protective eyewear is underused. This review evaluated the epidemiology, mechanisms, clinical manifestations, management, and prevention of ocular trauma in tennis, badminton, and padel. PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar were searched electronically using the SPIDER framework. Of 48 records identified, six duplicates and six ineligible reports were removed; 36 studies met the inclusion criteria. Blunt trauma from high-velocity balls or shuttlecocks was the principal injury mechanism. Reported manifestations included hyphema, corneal abrasion, globe contusion, angle recession, lens dislocation, vitreous hemorrhage, retinal tears, and retinal detachment. Most injuries were managed conservatively, whereas severe structural damage required surgery. Posterior-segment involvement was associated with permanent visual loss, and post-traumatic glaucoma was an important long-term complication. Badminton and padel appeared more frequently associated with severe anterior-segment injury than tennis. Polycarbonate protective eyewear remains the most effective preventive measure, although compliance is low. Standardized eye protection, player education, and injury surveillance are needed as participation in racquet sports expands.