No. 1 pair Galan and Lebron: "Proud to be an example"

The Padel circuit could hardly have found two better ambassadors than Ale Galan and Juan Lebron. At the peak of success for the sport of Padel, the two Spaniards sitting at the top of the Padel world ranking are not only champions. What is worth pointing out is that they are also fans of the very sport that has now become their profession.

Ale Galan from Madrid, Juan Lebron from Cadiz, in Andalusia, represent both souls of the country where Padel is already the second most popular sport, behind football. Chatting with them means wandering down a path where Italy is also headed. In a way, it's like imagining our future, while admiring the present made up of talent and great dedication.

ON CHOOSING EACH OTHER

Ale Galan

“When in 2019 we decided to leave our respective teammates, we ended up opting for each other: a good solution for both of us. When I got Lebron's request I didn't think twice and accepted. I knew he was the best one to have alongside me, and that our project could have a future. Reaching world no. 1 is not the only confirmation; another result is showing the world every day that we believe in what we do, no doubts in our minds. We strive to improve and move forward all the time”.

Juan Lebron

“I decided to ask Ale because I thought he was a player who would help me get better. It was not my decision alone: my entourage, family and staff backed me up. Ever since the first tournament together I knew we could achieve big things”.

“We are pleased to be role models for the sport of Padel, as Fernando Belasteguin was for me some time back. The Padel world is watching us, we are aware of it and we try to be an example for kids and all those who follow us".

POPULARITY

Juan Lebron

“I'm a simple person, seeing people asking me for autographs and photos is a real pleasure, it's never too much and it doesn't bother me at all. Maybe at age 50, when I am no longer on the circuit playing, I will miss this”.

Ale Galan

“We are lucky, because as Juan says we are not popular to the point of having had enough of the glamour. It’s a pleasure to be able to be Padel ambassadors in the world. Of course, it is different in Spain, where Padel is deeply-rooted in the culture. It is already the second most practised sport and people recognise us, not so much in other countries".

“A less positive aspect is that knowing we are no. 1, we are more scrutinised at times, and are judged by how we behave in and out of the cage. But this is inevitable and it is just a detail, the truth is that deep down it gratifies us”.

JOINING THE OLYMPICS, ALSO THANKS TO THE PREMIER PADEL

Ale Galan

“What you give to others must always be positive. Not only are we no. 1, we are passionate about this sport above all else. The goal for Padel must be to become part of the Olympic Games, and I believe that with this level of organisation we will get there very soon".

Juan Lebron

“The Premier Padel will lift the sport to a level never seen before, both in terms of communications and organisation. It is a stimulating challenge, something that’s very positive not just for us, but also for the fans. I am happy about the new developments, but mostly I like to witness joy in those watching, those who are in touch with our world all year round. This revolutionary success will not only affect the best eight pairs, but also the top 20, 30, 50 players in the world. They all have different characteristics and the fans can see themselves in many athletes, each with their positive qualities as examples. In that respect the International Federation has been working very well”.

LEISURE TIME, ROME, FOOTBALL AND NADAL

Ale Galan

“We like to be with our families, even if it is not easy to find free time due to our commitments on the circuit. I like to be very focused on what I do, I don’t get ahead of myself, I am a quiet person. I constantly try to understand how I can improve mentally, physically and on a technical level. There is always something to do when it comes to professional sport”.

“Out of the cage I like cinema, theatre, being with friends. I love bowling and obviously I like to follow other sports, such as football and tennis. I like to identify with other athletes and make comparisons between me and them. I admire them and let them inspire me. Honestly, I already dream of the day when Padel and tennis will enjoy the same level of popularity. Rome? Everything is fantastic here, both the tournament area at the Foro Italico and the city. And I’m obsessed with the cuisine, from “cacio e pepe” to “carbonara”... ".

Juan Lebron

“My favourite sport, aside from Padel, is football. I am a Real Betis fan. But I also like tennis and I adore Rafael Nadal: what he has accomplished in his career is an inspiration”.