The Generali Hexagon Cup is also the ideal venue to discover the season's new partnerships. And among them, one pair has attracted everyone's attention: Ari Sánchez and Andrea UsteroFor their big debut together, the players of the RL9 Team delivered a very convincing performance… to the point of already raising the pressure.

A first test that was challenging and perfectly executed.

There was a lot of anticipation surrounding this new association, and the first verdict did not disappoint.
Opposed to Marta Ortega and Gemma Triay, under the colors of the Rafael Nadal AcademyAri Sánchez and Andrea Ustero were present.

In a match that looked far from easy on paper, the RL9 Team pair displayed real authority. Tactically sound and (already) very complementary, they prevailed. 6 / 2, 6 / 3, thus giving the team its first victory Robert Lewandowski in this 2026 edition.

Ustero and Ari Sanchez at the Hexagon Cup

Ustero impresses, Ari guides the project

While Ari Sánchez, former world number one, brought all her experience and mastery of the game that she has been known for over many years, Andrea Ustero particularly made an impression.

Embarking on what is undoubtedly the biggest challenge of her young career, the Spanish player played with complete confidence: intensity, personality, initiative… it was all there. This attitude confirms why this project is generating so much anticipation.

For Ari, this youthful choice, blending present and future, already seems to be taking shape. It remains a match of the Hexagon Cup, and not a Major final, but the alchemy appears natural.

Josemaría also starts, KRÜ already under pressure

Women's Day was also marked by the debuts of Paula Josemaría, associated with Alejandra Alonso under the Eleven Eleven banner.

Facing Sofia Araújo and Claudia Jensen (KRÜ Padel), the match was close until the very end. After three hard-fought sets, Josemaría and Alonso emerged victorious. 3/6, 6/3, 11/9, at the end of a crazy super tie-break.

A result that leaves the champions and runners-up of the circuit without a victory on this first day.

Josemaria / Alonso at the Hexagon Cup 2026

Brea and Calvo confirm their status

Another association to watch closely: Delfi Brea and Martina Calvo.
Opposed to Alejandra Salazar and Carmen Goenaga (Hexagon Team), the AD/Vantage players delivered a very clean match, without any real lapses in concentration.

Victoire 6 / 3, 6 / 3, two more points for their team and an impression of control which already places them among the most solid pairs of this Hexagon Cup… and perhaps well beyond.

Between new partnerships, ambitious projects, and a hierarchy already shaken up, the Generali Hexagon Cup 2026 continues to keep all its promises.

And what if this first match was an indicator? Ari Sánchez and Andrea Ustero could quickly become one of the most scrutinized pairings of the season.

Maceo ZERHAT

Maceo Zerhat discovered padel in 2020 at Domaine De Clairis in Burgundy. He contributed to the club's expansion by bringing his energy and curiosity. Padel Magazinehe transmits his antoushiasme and his " Padel"mania" by skillfully bouncing on all the latest news about your favorite sport!

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