Whether it is the emotion of playing for the first time on the courts set up in Skanderbeg Square or the incredible warmth of the Albanian crowd, one thing is certain: the stars of world padel have already fallen in love with Tirana and Albania. “I would like to thank all the people of this country” said Franco Stupaczuk, one of the players competing in today’s semi-finals, starting at 3 p.m. “I never imagined in my life that I would come to play in Albania and find so many people”. The Argentine, nicknamed “El Polaco” because of his family’s Polish origins, was not the only player to be won over by the FIP Platinum Albania. “I want to thank all the people who came to watch us” said Spain’s Alex Arroyo, who is competing in the semi-finals alongside Maxi Arce. “I have to say that the way padel is experienced here is truly incredible”. Enzo Jensen, one of the surprises of the tournament together with David Gala, also spoke enthusiastically about Albania: “We have discovered an incredible country, in the most positive sense of the word. Thank you to everyone who is supporting us”. After her debut, women’s padel legend Ale Salazar also expressed her emotions: “It was wonderful to play in Skanderbeg Square. The city organised the tournament perfectly”.
Walking through Tirana, it is easy to understand why the champions of this sport have been captivated by the city’s atmosphere. In every corner, every street and every square, there is a sense of positive energy: people enjoy spending time together, going out and having fun, and venues are full even during the week. The enthusiasm of the Albanian people for padel is evident. One only has to look at the stands around centre court to understand how this sport is attracting people of all ages. It does not matter if, until a few days ago, some had never heard of it: what matters is being drawn in by the spectacle and admiring the shots of the great champions up close. This festive atmosphere provides the backdrop to a beautiful city where modern skyscrapers blend with the beauty of the country’s monuments, while the sound of the padel ball continues to grow louder and louder.