The fifth edition of the CUPRA FIP Finals will be staged at the Jiangwan Sports Center in Shanghai, running from Wednesday through Saturday. Organized by the International Padel Federation with the support of a local promoter and the Chinese Tennis Association, the event brings together 16 pairs in both the men’s and women’s draws.
Bautista’s Title Defense
Jairo Bautista, who triumphed last year in Bourg-en-Bresse alongside Fran Guerrero, returns to defend his crown. This time, he partners Edu Alonso, with the duo leading the men’s entry list. They are followed by Juanlu Esbri and Alex Ruiz, winners of the FIP Platinum in Lyon last October. José Diestro and Javi Garcia enter as the number three seeds, while Javi Garrido, paired with Álvaro Cepero, looks to close out the season on a high note.
Women’s Draw Spotlight
In the women’s competition, Aranzazu Osoro and Claudia Jensen stand out as the pair to beat. Ranked 19 and 12 in the FIP standings, they lead the field. Martina Fassio and Patty Llaguno are seeded second on the opposite side of the draw, while Jessica Castelló and Lorena Rufo arrive with momentum after reaching the quarter-finals of the Major in Acapulco. Their victory over Paula Josemaría and Ari Sanchez in Mexico has boosted their confidence heading into Shanghai.
The Stakes in China
The tournament begins with the round of 16 and culminates on Saturday, December 6, when the champions will be crowned. With 225 FIP ranking points on offer, the competition promises high intensity and significant implications for the end-of-season standings.
This edition of the CUPRA FIP Finals not only highlights the growing global reach of padel but also sets the stage for new rivalries and memorable performances in one of the sport’s most important events.
