Three questions to… Paquito Navarro: “I thrive on adrenaline. The ‘guitar’ gesture? Here’s how it started”

At 35, he’s still one of the world’s best paddle players, and one of the most beloved champions for his ability to engage and entertain fans, not just with extraordinary plays. After over 20 years of his career, Paquito Navarro continues his exceptional journey in the world’s top rankings, but above all, he lives his sport with the same enthusiasm he had as a child, when he played paddle in Seville, the city where he was born and where he competed in the latest stage of the Premier Padel circuit. The Andalusian champion shares his story in the column “Three questions to…“, through which the International Padel Federation offers a fresh look at the great protagonists of this sport.

You’re one of the most beloved players among paddle enthusiasts. At 35, you still enjoy yourself. But what do you like most?

Certainly, it’s the competition. I love the sensation and adrenaline rush of stepping onto the court and playing in a tournament. I enjoy it because it’s a moment that’s hard to compare to other moments in life. So, what I like most about my job is competing and entertaining people with what I do on the court.

You’re also famous for your famous ‘guitar’ gesture with the racket. How did it come about? Do you remember the first time you did it?

I remember it well, I was playing with Di Nenno. He celebrated with a gesture that resembled someone forcefully inflating a wheel, while I thought of the “guitar”, as journalist Lalo Alzueta named it.

You’re a champion but also an inspiration for the younger generations

I simply try to do things in the best possible way and give my all. In the future, I’d like to be remembered as a kind person who enjoyed playing a lot, who connected well with the audience, and who grew just like this sport did.