THE Philippine Padel Association is set to make history as it competes in the Asia-Africa Qualifiers for the World Padel Championship on Sept. 22 to 27 in Kuwait.
PPA president Allena Dawn Magpantay said this marks the first time the Philippines will participate as a team in an official competition organized by the International Padel Federation (FIP).
The Women’s Team, led by team captain Jessica Agra, includes Anna Christine Patrimonio, Jessica Lucas, Alessa Marie Belbes, Rovy Conle Castillo, and Michelle Rose Dickson.
The Men’s Team, captained by Ryan Cater, features John Michael Tamayo, Jaybee Buenaventura, Timothy Peter Berry, Alexander Jr. Borela, and Arnel Burden.
“It’s an incredible honor to represent the Philippines in these qualifiers,” said Agra, a lawyer and the No. 1-ranked player in the Pacific Padel Tour (APPT) women’s rankings. “The competition will be fierce, but we believe in our team’s potential and are ready to give it our all.”
The team has been rigorously preparing at the Manila Padel Club, with support from MartinX Academy. Their training is guided by Argentine coach Martin Noschese and John Michael Tamayo, the first internationally certified Filipino padel coach, who will also lead the team during the World Padel Championships.
In the women’s qualifiers, the top two out of 15 participating countries will advance to the final stage of the FIP World Padel Championships in Doha, Qatar, from October 28 to November 2.
“We’ve been training hard and focused on securing a spot in the finals. It’s a privilege to represent our country, and we’re determined to perform at our best,” Agra added.
Key sponsors, including K-Swiss, Rudy Project, PACE Prehab and Recovery, Philippine Airlines, and Wheyl, have bolstered the PPA’s efforts. Their support has been vital in elevating the Philippines’ presence in the sport of padel.
Additionally, the PPA will host the first-ever FIP tournament in Manila from November 11 to 17, 2024. The event will allow players to earn international ranking points and is expected to draw top talent from across the Asia-Pacific, Middle East, and Europe.
“The Manila tournament is a major step forward for padel in the Philippines, and we’re excited to highlight the sport’s growth and potential in the international stage,” said the PPA.
