Milan, Italy – The world of padel witnessed a historic moment as Fernando Belasteguín, affectionately known as Bela, played his final professional match at the Milano Premier Padel P1 tournament. Bela, a name synonymous with excellence and dominance in padel, concluded his illustrious career with a bittersweet farewell.
Over the span of three decades, Bela has amassed an incredible 230 titles out of 286 finals, including six World Championship golds. His remarkable journey saw him hold the world number one ranking for an unprecedented 16 years. Bela’s career has not only shaped the history of padel but also inspired countless players and fans around the globe.
In his final tournament, Bela teamed up with rising star Tino Libaak. The duo successfully navigated the first round, but their journey ended in the second round with a loss to Lucas Bergamini and Javi Garrido, who defeated them 6-3, 6-4. As the match concluded, Bela left the court in tears, marking the end of an era.
Despite his retirement from professional play, Bela’s legacy will continue to thrive. In two weeks, he will participate in a tribute match alongside former partners such as Juan Martín Díaz and Pablo Lima, celebrating his contributions to the sport. Additionally, Bela will remain an integral part of the padel world through his ongoing collaboration with Wilson Sporting Goods, where he serves as a global ambassador and advisor.
As fans and players alike bid farewell to this legendary figure, the impact of Bela’s career will be remembered for generations to come. His unwavering work ethic, passion for the sport, and ability to inspire have left an indelible
