The Argentinian player Franco Stupaczuk, currently world number 3, is preparing to begin a new adventure alongside Juan Lebrón. In an interview with Mark, he looks back on the 2024 season, the challenges that await him in 2025 and his ambitions with his new partner “El Lobo”.

A promising new association

Stupaczuk expressed his enthusiasm for this collaboration: “We have very strong ambitions, and we are ready to work to ensure that the pieces fit together quickly.” After being in contact with Lebrón since 2023, the idea of ​​playing together came to fruition at the end of last year. Stupaczuk sees in Lebrón one of the best players in the history of padel, and he believes that his new teammate gives his best version with him.

A break with Di Nenno and necessary adjustments

The decision to separate from Martín Di Nenno, with whom he formed the “Superpibes”, was not easy. Stupaczuk highlights a certain “wear and tear” after several years together and acknowledges that the two players sometimes blamed each other. “In hindsight, we realised that the responsibility was shared.”

With Lebrón, Stupaczuk hopes to start anew. He emphasizes that their duo is “very hybrid”, combining defense and attack. “Juan will help me advance on the ground, while I can offer him my physical deployment to cover all the necessary areas.”

Challenges against the number 1s: Tapia and Coello

Stupaczuk is aware that Agustín Tapia and Arturo Coello, still world number 1, remain the opponents to beat. “They are very aggressive players who can win a point in two touches. Against them, you have to be consistent and fight for every ball.”

Expected improvements in the circuit Premier Padel

Asked about his opinion on the personalised tour Premier Padel, Stupaczuk gave a positive assessment while asking for adjustments. He points out logistical concerns in some tournaments, such as in Venezuela or Egypt, and calls for standardization of balls for each tournament. He also hopes that conflicts between Premier Padel and the players' association (PPA) are resolving to build a common future.

Towards a long-term project with Lebrón?

Stupaczuk sees this collaboration with Lebrón as a great opportunity and hopes that their association will last. “We want a long-term project, but it will depend on the results and our agreement on the ground.”

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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