Fernando Belasteguín, often referred to as “Bela,” is a name synonymous with excellence in the world of padel. His journey from a young boy in Argentina to becoming the world’s top-ranked padel player for an unprecedented 16 consecutive years is nothing short of legendary. Bela’s career is a testament to his relentless dedication, unparalleled skill, and an indomitable spirit that made him feel, as he puts it, “indestructible” for several years.
Belasteguín’s rise to the top began in Mar del Plata, where he made his professional debut in 1995. From the outset, it was clear that Bela was a force to be reckoned with. His partnership with Juan Martín Díaz became one of the most formidable duos in the sport, dominating the padel courts and setting records that still stand today. Together, they won numerous titles and established a legacy that would inspire future generations.
Talking about his last years on tour, Bela conceded that he went from feeling indestructable to struglging with injuries.
He comented: “I was always competitive practically until I was 42 or 43 years old. In recent years, something else has been noticed, I didn’t feel completely well and I have been a bit more fragile because I have pushed myself to be at the level of the youngsters and nature doesn’t forgive you. Injuries are a huge blow on a mental level, I felt fragile, and that was reflected in my game.
Maybe being away from my family for so long, exposed in this world of padel, has made me a bit colder because I tried to be more immune to everything. Now I’m like a sand castle, and if my family is not well, I get scared. “
