Reflecting on a challenging 2023 season and the journey back
The interview with Riva Mackie on Padel Smash Academy opens with a candid discussion about her recent ranking and the ups and downs of her competitive journey. Once ranked number one in the nation, Riva now finds herself at number four, but she approaches this shift with optimism and determination. She openly describes 2023 as a particularly tough year, especially during the spring, when she faced significant challenges on the court that impacted her confidence. Rather than shying away from these difficulties, Riva explains how she used them as a catalyst for growth, revisiting her approach and making substantial changes to her game and mindset.
Riva’s honesty about her struggles and her commitment to continuous learning stand out. She emphasizes that the journey back to form has been longer than she hoped, but she now feels ready to embrace new opportunities in 2024. Her resilience and love for padel remain at the core of her story, inspiring both fans and fellow players.
Ambitious plans for 2024 and new opportunities
Looking ahead, Riva hints at big plans for the upcoming year, though she keeps some details under wraps for now. She shares that her immediate schedule includes playing in Orlando and participating in a Red Paddle tournament with dedicated women’s draws—a development she finds especially exciting. Beyond tournaments, Riva balances her athletic ambitions with family life, homeschooling her two young children and managing a busy household.
One of the most exciting prospects for 2024 is her involvement with Red Paddle as an ambassador and event organizer. She reveals plans for the America’s Cup Padel event in Mexico at the end of February, designed to offer amateurs a true professional experience. Additionally, Riva hints at the possibility of opening a new padel club by the end of the year, though she remains tight-lipped about the location until plans are finalized.
Playing style, favorite shots, and on-court preferences
The rapid-fire “Golden Point” segment provides insight into Riva’s playing style and preferences. She is versatile, playing both right and left sides but admits a preference for the left. When it comes to conditions, she has recently shifted from favoring indoor courts to embracing outdoor play, recognizing the growth it brings to her game.
Riva describes herself as a player who favors finesse over power, and she identifies her favorite shot as an “off the wall” play. Interestingly, she admits her backhand off the ground is her weakest shot, demonstrating her willingness to be transparent about areas for improvement. Her favorite technical shot is the by three, which she continues to develop.
Equipment choices and the search for a new racket
When asked about her gear, Riva expresses loyalty to her current Adidas padel racket, a special edition model with a distinctive black and orange design. Unfortunately, this racket is no longer available, prompting her to begin the search for a new one. She mentions she is open to trying different rackets and even hints at being receptive to sponsorship opportunities from brands seeking a dedicated ambassador.
This openness to new equipment underscores her adaptability and her commitment to finding the right tools to support her evolving game.
Top partners and the importance of synergy on court
Riva is quick to acknowledge the significance of strong partnerships in padel. While she finds it difficult to name a single favorite partner, she shares her top three:
- Egly: Known for pushing Riva to reach new levels and step outside her comfort zone.
- Nancy Dingwall: A partner with whom Riva shares a constructive approach to strategy and gameplay, especially valued as both are experienced players.
- Louis: A young, up-and-coming player transitioning from tennis, whom Riva enjoys mentoring and playing alongside.
These partnerships highlight the importance of chemistry, communication, and mutual growth in achieving success on the court.
Influential mentors and the value of guidance
Reflecting on her development, Riva credits a significant mentor, Matias Matos from Brazil, who played a pivotal role in shaping her approach to padel. Although he never called himself a coach, Matias’s influence was profound, offering Riva invaluable lessons and a deeper understanding of the game. This mentorship, combined with her tennis background, has contributed to her unique playing style and perspective.
Key takeaways from Riva Mackie’s interview
- Resilience and adaptability: Riva’s journey through setbacks in 2023 demonstrates her determination and willingness to evolve.
- Ambitious goals: She is focused on both personal growth and expanding the padel community through events and club development in 2024.
- Technical finesse: Her preference for finesse, versatility on court, and continuous skill development set her apart as a player.
- Community and mentorship: Riva values strong partnerships and the impact of mentorship, both as a mentee and mentor.
- Equipment evolution: Her search for a new racket reflects her commitment to optimizing her performance and staying open to innovation.
Riva Mackie’s story, as shared on Padel Smash Academy, offers a compelling blend of personal insight, professional ambition, and a genuine passion for the sport. Her journey is a testament to the evolving landscape of padel and the drive required to stay at the top.
