It was during theHexagon Cup that an exclusive interview was held with the world number 1, Ari Sánchez. In a relaxed atmosphere, like this tournament exhibition, the Spanish player spoke about her approach to team work, mental preparation and high-level dynamics one week before the start of the official season.

A separate but effective workout

Asked about the importance of training daily with her partner, Ari Sánchez explained that alternating between joint and individual sessions was beneficial:

"Honestly, I think it's a good method not to train together every week, because it also allows us to take a break from each other. We spend the whole year traveling, sharing all our meals and spending a lot of time together. At some point, each of us also has our own life and needs. Paula trains in Alicante, me in Barcelona with Ángel.

I think it works well. In fact, it also works for the boys, like Arturo (Coello) and Agus (Tapia), and I think it works for them. It's an interesting model, because we also need to rest a little from each other, or especially to disconnect. Honestly, I think it's a good organization."

She points out that this method is adopted by other players like Arturo Coello and Agustín Tapia, and that it allows them to maintain a balance.

Concentration and tactical approach

In terms of competition, the Catalan player insists on the importance of staying focus on own game :

“We perform better when each of us stays focused on what we have to do, on our routines, our game and the tactics we have to follow. Of course, there is also a pair strategy, but what we work on with our psychologist is above all to stay focused on ourselves, on what we have to do, and to avoid being distracted by other elements.

Of course, we are always aware of what is happening on the ground, but above all we try to stay focused on our own role."

According to her, paying too much attention to her partner's actions could be counterproductive, the main thing is to focus on your own role on the ground.

Ari Sánchez reveals the two methods to become the best player in the world: "not training with your partner every day and a good psychologist!"

The mind, a key factor in performance

Mental preparation plays a central role in match management and high performance. Ari Sánchez highlights the importance of positive self-talk :

“You’re constantly thinking, whether on or off the pitch. So you have to be very careful about how you talk to yourself. It’s important not to be too negative, not to put obstacles in your way, because that can affect your self-confidence.

These are things that we work on with the psychologist. We have routines to prevent our minds from wandering and to focus only on the present moment, on the point we are playing and on the ball we have to hit."

Through specific exercises, she and her partner Paula Josemaría strive to stay focused on the present moment, avoiding any mental dispersion which could impact their performance.

As the new season approaches, the world number 1 displays great determination and a well-honed methodology to maintain his place at the top of world padel.

Alexandre Prevert

Professional pianist, the Bataclan, but also representative of players including Laura Buteau and now columnist… We won't stop him!

On the same subject

Tags