Tolito Aguirre returns to premier padel with a new partner
The upcoming Premier Padel Italy Major in Rome brings a wave of excitement, not least because Tolito Aguirre is set to return to the circuit with a new partner. After his previous appearance with Gonzalo Alfonso ended in a first-round exit, Tolito is now teaming up with Gonzalo Rubio for this prestigious event. The channel highlights that this pairing is particularly intriguing, given their previous experience together in exhibition matches and Tolito’s preference for playing on the left side, where he feels most comfortable and effective.
This new partnership will debut against Ivancho and Pol Hernandez in what is expected to be a challenging opening match. If Tolito and Rubio manage to advance, fans could witness a historic first-ever clash between Sanjo and Tolito in the round of 16—a duel between two of the most creative and unpredictable players on the tour.
Sanjo and Maxi Sanchez split as new partnerships emerge
Another major storyline is the end of the partnership between Sanjo (Sanyo Gutiérrez) and Maxi Sanchez. The Italy Major will be their final tournament together, capping a run of six events with their best results being two quarterfinal appearances. The reviewer notes that their pairing was initially strategic, aiming to maintain their top-eight status, but with results falling short, the split seemed inevitable.
Sanjo, who just turned 40—making him the second oldest player on tour after Bela (45)—has already announced his new partner: Alejandro Arroyo. This marks a significant step for Arroyo, a promising young Spanish player who has previously partnered with names like Juani Mieres, Gonzalo Rubio, Mike Yanguas, Lucho Capra, and Edu Alonso. The channel emphasizes that Arroyo’s physicality and powerful smash game (averaging 24 smashes per match with a 60% efficiency rate) make him an ideal complement to Sanjo’s experience and tactical acumen.
Alejandro Arroyo’s rise and impact on the new pairing
The reviewer highlights Arroyo’s breakout season, having reached four quarterfinals alongside Edu Alonso and coming close to finals positions. At 1.88 meters tall, Arroyo’s court coverage and athleticism are seen as crucial assets, especially as the pace and physical demands of padel continue to increase. Sanjo’s choice to partner with Arroyo is portrayed as both strategic and forward-looking, with the young Spaniard’s ambition and energy expected to invigorate the veteran’s game.
If Sanjo and Arroyo had joined forces for the Rome Major, they would have been seeded as the number nine pair, a testament to their combined ranking potential. The channel also poses a playful question to viewers: would they prefer to see Sanjo team up with a “burger” (a humorous reference to another player) or with Arroyo?
Recent results and the significance of the italy major
The Italy Major is described as the most beautiful and important tournament of the year by the reviewer, not only for its prestige but also because it offers more points and prize money than any other event on the Premier Padel calendar. The channel points out that the four majors are pivotal, with the Italy Major being one of them, and notes that winning three regular tournaments only yields the same points as a single major victory.
Recent results have shaken up the rankings. With the top four pairs resting after a demanding South American swing, Coki Nieto and Jon Sanz seized the opportunity to claim their first Premier Padel title in Bordeaux. Their victory over Alex Ruiz and Momo González in the final, after eliminating Bela and Coello in the semifinals, has solidified their status as the number eight pair heading into Rome.
Key matchups and tournament dynamics in rome
The draw for the Italy Major promises several high-stakes encounters from the outset. The reviewer draws attention to the first-round showdown between Tolito/Rubio and Ivancho/Pol Hernandez, as well as potential clashes deeper in the tournament:
- Possible round of 16: Coello/Tapia vs. Bergamini/Ruiz
- Potential quarterfinal: Sanjo/Arroyo vs. their future rivals
- Likely semifinal: Coello/Tapia vs. Paquito Navarro/Lebron
- Other side of the draw: Super Pibes vs. Chingotto/Galán
The reviewer predicts that the final will feature Coello/Tapia against Chingotto/Galán, framing it as a battle for the number one ranking. The stakes are clear: if Chingotto and Galán win, they close the gap in the race for the top spot; if Coello and Tapia prevail, they further extend their lead.
Conditions, surprises, and new gear releases at the italy major
Rome’s outdoor conditions are expected to play a significant role in the tournament’s unpredictability. The reviewer notes that matches played during the day will be faster, while evening sessions will see the courts slow down considerably. The use of the standard Wilson ball (not the fastest available) adds another layer of complexity, making the Italy Major a unique challenge for all competitors.
In addition to the on-court drama, several top players are set to unveil new rackets during the event. Arturo Coello will release a limited edition red and black model, while Bela will debut a special edition racket in honor of Italy, available exclusively in the host country. These launches add to the buzz surrounding the tournament and offer fans a glimpse of the latest gear innovations.
Predictions and expectations for the premier padel italy major
The channel closes with a strong endorsement of the Italy Major’s significance, calling it the most beautiful and exciting event of the year. With so many storylines converging—new partnerships, the battle for number one, and the unpredictability of outdoor play—expectations are sky-high. The reviewer’s prediction is clear: a final between Coello/Tapia and Chingotto/Galán would be a fitting climax, giving fans the showdown they deserve for the sport’s top ranking.
As the Premier Padel Italy Major unfolds, all eyes will be on Rome to see which partnerships thrive, which stars rise, and who ultimately claims the coveted title in one of padel’s grandest stages.
