This Sunday, the final of Cancún Premier Padel P2 promises a particularly enticing poster: Tolito Aguirre (52th in the world) and Gonza Alfonso (47th in the world), nicknamed the “Mágicos”, challenge the favorite pair, Juan Lebrón (former world number 1) and Franco Stupaczuk (world No. 5). A huge challenge for the Argentinians, determined to show that they can compete at the highest level.

Tolito and Gonzalo, solid performances to be confirmed against the best

Aguirre and Alfonso have had a remarkable start to the season, notably with a recent title FIP Platinum of Puebla and a final at the P2 in Gijón. The Argentines beat the Deus brothers in the final of the FIP Gold of Paredes thus showing their ability to beat strong pairs. Now ranked in the world top 60, they hope to confirm this spectacular leap in the rankings with a remarkable performance against one of the best pairs on the circuit.

The Argentinian duo certainly shone on the A1 circuit last year, winning no less than 72 wins in 78 games, but their performances against higher ranked players on Premier Padel are more mixed. For example, their final lost in the recent Gijon P2 against young people Curro Cabeza et Diego Garcia (who weren't even in the FIP top 150 at that point) shows that they can sometimes crack under pressure.

Gijón P2 – Cabeza and García achieve the feat by winning the final against Aguirre and Alfonso

In 2024, Tolito's first tests on the circuit Premier Padel with partners like Gonzalo Rubio (37th in the world) were not very conclusive. In Rome, they were beaten in the last 16 by the experienced pair Maxi Sánchez / Sanyo Gutierrez. The same thing happened in Mar del Plata, where Tolito, along with Gonza Alfonso, suffered a defeat in the first round against Pablo Lijo et José Diestro.

Mar del Plata Premier Padel P1 – It goes for Chiostri / Sanchez, not for Alfonso / Aguirre…

Lebrón / Stupa: the major obstacle

Facing them, Lebron and Stupa have played in Cancun, without dropping a single set so far. Stupa's physical power and Lebrón's court coverage make the challenge even more complicated for Aguirre, who is often criticized for his physique compared to elite players.

Former world number one Lebrón boasts an impressive record of 1 titles, including several records set thanks to his consistency at the highest level. Stupa, meanwhile, is considered one of the best left-footed players on the tour.

A possible feat?

Of course, sport is never a foregone conclusion, and a final is still a final. But on paper, the matchup looks decidedly unbalanced. Aguirre and Alfonso will need to pull off a flawless performance if they hope to surprise the odds.

Verdict to follow this evening from 23h30 live on the YouTube channel of Premier Padel !

Benjamin Dupouy

I discovered padel directly during a tournament, and frankly, I didn't really like it at first. But the second time, it was love at first sight, and since then, I haven't missed a single match. I'm even ready to stay up until 3am to watch a final of Premier Padel !

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