In the press room of the Centrale at Foro Italico, right in front of the table where the main players sit, stands the photo of the award ceremony from the 2024 BNL Italy Major Premier Padel. Ale Galan and Fede Chingotto glance at it, smiling, perhaps already envisioning a repeat victory on Sunday. The challenge will not be easy, but Galan, after withdrawing from the P1 in Buenos Aires due to stomach issues, has fully recovered and is ready to compete.
Their goal is to claim a third title in Rome, where Galan previously triumphed in 2022 alongside Juan Lebron in the first-ever edition of the Roman Major. “I recovered well back in Spain, I have a great desire to play, and I’m thrilled to be here, where sports history is palpable, and the hallways are lined with photos of all the past champions of the Internazionali di tennis,” Galan shared.
The battle for the top ranking and the Race remains fiercely contested. Last year in Rome, the Chingotto-Galan duo secured their first Major title, followed by a victory in Genoa before experiencing a dip in performance, coinciding with the dominance of Coello and Tapia. However, with three titles already secured in the first half of 2025 (Miami, Santiago, Asuncion), the “Chingalan” team proves they are as determined as ever. “There are many points up for grabs here, and our goal is to win and update the picture right in front of us,” Galan stated.
Less than a month ago, Carlos Alcaraz captured several moments at the Centrale, sharing space with Galan, his friend and fellow countryman. Some have compared the rivalry between Alcaraz and Sinner to that of Chingotto-Galan and Coello-Tapia, but Galan disagrees. “I don’t like comparing sports and athletes, but our rivalry with Arturo and Agustin is undoubtedly healthy. Carlos is making history and following in Rafa Nadal’s footsteps. I wish him all the best, and hopefully, we can also achieve great things, just as he did in Paris,” Galan expressed.
While Galan aims for a third title in Rome, Chingotto is on a quest for his second, having lost the 2023 final against Coello and Tapia while paired with Paquito Navarro. “We are happy to be back in this incredible place. The goal, of course, is to defend last year’s title, but in general, I believe success comes from the work we put in every day. We must be ready for any situation and fight for every point. Titles are the reward for everything that happens beforehand. In tough moments, mental strength is key, and it’s important to tackle challenges as a team, removing doubts and supporting those who may be struggling. When you enjoy yourself, everything falls into place more naturally,” the Argentine explained.
Like many padel stars in Rome this week, Chingotto hopes to find time to experience the city and its wonders. “So far, we’ve had little time since we’ve been focused on training, but the opportunity will surely arise. I hope to visit the Trevi Fountain and enjoy a carbonara—every chance is a good one,” he concluded with excitement.
