Pablo Lima’s last match. World padel’s tribute: “Thank you legend”

Pablo Lima was, is and will remain a giant. And yesterday, “el canon de Porto Alegre”, could not hold back the tears. The one he lost yesterday 6-3 6-3 against Juan Lebron and Ale Galan, paired with Agustin Silingo, was the last match of one of the strongest players ever. One of those who can say he helped take padel to another dimension, and not only because of the more than 50 titles he won in his career. Those who were on the court embraced him one by one then Lima received a souvenir plaque and, on social media, thousands of messages. From the dedications of his former teammates to the tribute of many fans who have seen his magic on courts all over the world. Even those with the Brazilian national team jersey, with which he always played in the World Cup, perfectly interpreting the sense of attachment to the jersey and to his country. Pablo Lima’s career was supposed to end at the end of 2023, but the back problems that led him in this last period shortened his last season.

“I have had the privilege of doing a beautiful job – said –. I leave padel very happy and satisfied, with the knowledge that I have always respected the sport”. From Fernando Belasteguin to Juani Mieres (with the latter, he formed the legendary “Los Principes” pair), from Agustin Tapia to Paquito Navarro to Ale Galan, and even Franco Stupaczuk, with whom Lima won two Premier Padel titles in 2022, in Mendoza and New Giza, the entire padel world said goodbye to the Brazilian. “It took us four and a half years to do what we said we would do, throwing ourselves headlong into every ball in every training session – Bela’s thoughts –. We were very strong when we had to deal with major injuries, we really appreciated the victories but also the commitment every day. Twenty years as a professional athlete, but nothing compares to the best triumph of your life: the family you have formed has no expiration date, because you will be Victor’s father for the rest of your life”.

“I had the privilege of sharing the track with you – Navarro‘s message –. You were a reference that marked an era in our sport and to whom we will always be grateful for what you did on and off the court”. “You have left an impeccable legacy and a path for the younger generation to follow – the words of Ale Galan, who beat him to end his career –. Thank you for bringing this sport to where it is today. Thank you for entertaining all the lovers of this sport for 20 years”.

“There is a very special kind of emotion that one feels in front of those who are able to ignite passion to the point of becoming its symbol and reference point – said FIP president, Luigi Carraro –. Pablo Lima is and has been one of these, and not only for the successes he has conquered on courts all over the world, but also and above all for the spirit with which he wore the jersey of his country in the various editions of the World Padel Championships. A jersey with which he represented Brazil, its Federation and its people, embodying to perfection the high competitive value, passion and belonging of its people. That is why Pablo has been and remains a great example for all of us and for the new generations that will have the task of taking this sport ever higher”.

“Pablo Lima, or “Pablito”, has built the most remarkable career among Brazilian padel players. His talent – commented Eduardo Langer, President of the Brazilian Padel Confederation – passion and determination are examples for generations to come, contributing to the growth and renewal of the sport in Brazil. We hope to continue counting on you, now off the court, thank you very much, Pablito“.