Men’s draw, Portugal in the history: first bronze medal

A hug among the players and their captain, Gervasio Del Bono, extended to the bus driver as well — who has driven them all week to the Khalifa International Tennis and Squash Complex — whom the team called out to the court with them in a memorable moment on a historic day. Portugal the first medal in the FIP World Padel Championships has arrived: it was won by the men in Doha, beating Italy 2-0 in the final for third place and taking revenge for the women’s defeat, also against Italy, which came on the same court. It was an extraordinary joy for Portugal, who celebrated like their compatriot Cristiano Ronaldo after the double victory against Italy.

The first point came thanks to Pedro Araujo and Antonio Luque, who beat Riccardo Sinicropi and Giulio Graziotti 6-2 6-2. The second victory, the one that closed the tie, came with brothers Nuno and Miguel Deus, thanks to a 6-4 6-3 win over Aris Patiniotis and Facundo Dominguez. A historic result for Portugal, but congratulations also to Italy, which two years ago closed the FIP World Padel Championships in Dubai in ninth place and gained five places in the overall ranking in 2024.

“This is the best feeling we’ve ever experienced”, the Portuguese team shared after the match. “Two years ago in Dubai, we missed our goal, losing to France, but this time, we did it. Knowing we have to represent an entire country is an added responsibility, but we use that thought to push ourselves to a higher level. This is an amazing group, and this third place is a dream come true”.