In this enlightening episode, Minter Dial interviews Gabo Loredo, a Mexican Padel enthusiast and coach at Tasty Padel, to explore the fascinating world of Padel tennis. Their conversation delves into the sport’s unique appeal, rapid global growth, and the personal transformations it can inspire. From unexpected beginnings to professional insights, this interview offers a compelling look at Padel’s past, present, and future.
Gabo Loredo’s Intro to Padel
Loredo’s introduction to Padel came by chance when a friend asked him to fill in for an injured partner in a tournament. Despite being a skilled tennis player, Loredo found himself thoroughly outmatched in this new sport. “I thought I was going to rock the world there. First round, 6-0, 6-1, 30 minutes,” he recalls with a laugh. This humbling experience sparked a fascination that would change the course of his life.
Determined to master Padel, Loredo embarked on an eight-month intensive training period in Argentina where he met Jorge Nicolini, his Padel Godfather. He immersed himself in the sport, even trading cleaning services at the club for training opportunities. This dedication paid off, as he quickly rose to become one of the top 25 players in Argentina.
Gabo Loredo in Europe
Loredo’s journey then took him to Spain, where he continued to hone his skills and eventually transitioned into coaching. He found particular success in Nordic countries, where his English-speaking abilities and expertise were in high demand. Today, Loredo splits his time between coaching and running his own Padel equipment brand.
Argentinian Padel V.S. Spanish Padel
Throughout the interview, Loredo offers insights into the nuances of Padel, comparing the defensive Argentinian style with the more aggressive Spanish approach. He likens his own playing style to that of a panther, emphasizing his preference for a defensive game that can quickly transition into fast-paced action. If you want to know more about Argentinian Padel vs. Spanish Padel then Click Here for the full episode.
Why Switch From Tennis to Padel?
One of the most intriguing aspects of Padel, according to Loredo, is its ability to bring people together. He notes that it’s one of the few sports where players of different skill levels can enjoy playing together, making it uniquely accessible and social. This quality has led many, including Loredo himself, to change careers and lifestyles to accommodate their passion for Padel.
Loredo also touches on the rapid growth of Padel worldwide, particularly in countries like Sweden. He recounts the story of Anders Mattson, who was initially ridiculed for opening Sweden’s first Padel club but has since been vindicated by the sport’s explosive popularity in the country.
Gabo Loredo’s Insight on the Future of Padel
Looking to the future, Loredo sees both opportunities and challenges in Padel’s expansion. While there’s still room for new coaches and entrepreneurs to enter the field, he expresses concern about the need for more standardized coaching certifications to ensure quality instruction as the sport grows.
From his unexpected introduction to Padel to his current status as a respected coach and equipment manufacturer, Gabo Loredo’s story is a testament to the transformative power of finding one’s passion. His insights into the technical aspects of the game, combined with his enthusiasm for its community-building potential, offer a compelling glimpse into the world of Padel tennis.
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