Years go by, but the desire remains undiminished. Having qualified for the Pretoria P1 semi-finals alongside Juanlu Esbrí, Sanyo Gutiérrez used his excellent tournament performance to send a message to the Argentine national team selectors. With the World Championships in Doha just a few months away, the "Magician" still hopes to wear the Albiceleste jersey one last time. 

"I still have that dream."

At 42, many would have already hung up their pala. Not Sanyo Gutiérrez.

The Argentinian continues to compete with the best pairs on the circuit, and his run at Pretoria P1 is further proof of that. After reaching the semi-finals with Juanlu Esbrí, he spoke frankly about his biggest goal for the end of the season: participating in the World Championship, held in early November in Doha.

“I’ve been lucky enough to represent my country on many occasions. During the last World Cup, I asked my teammates to sign my jersey because I thought it would be my last appearance. But I won’t lie: I’m dying to play for Argentina again. I’d love to play in one more World Cup.”

A sincere statement addressed to the Argentinian coaches, Gaby Reca and Rodri Ovide.

"Today, I think I can make them hesitate."

Sanyo admits that he himself had imagined that his age would definitively close the door to selection.

But his recent performances have given him renewed hope.

“At the previous tournament, I thought that at 42 I no longer had any chance. Today, I feel I can at least give the coach something to think about. I'm still at a good level, I continue to compete with the younger players and play on equal terms against very good pairs. My desire is intact, even though I know the decision is his.”

A speech that reflects the competitiveness of a player who refuses to set limits for himself simply because of his age.

The secret to its longevity

Despite padel becoming increasingly faster and more physical, Sanyo continues to compete among the elite. For him, the primary driving force remains motivation.

"The secret is wanting it. The most important thing is to retire because you've decided to, not because others tell you you're too old or that you're no longer up to scratch. You have to know how to isolate yourself from that outside noise."

This determination is accompanied by an impeccable lifestyle. The former world number one explains that he surrounds himself with a full team consisting of a physical trainer, a nutritionist, and a coach. At his home, everything is designed to optimize recovery.

"I take the best possible care of my body. Every morning, I ask myself what I can still improve. At a certain age, you have to prioritize quality over quantity, and I've learned to do that."

At 42, Sanyo Gutiérrez responds to criticism: "I want to be the one to decide when to stop."

A message sent before the World Cup

Even though his South African adventure ultimately ended in the semi-finals against Alejandro Galán and Federico Chingotto, Sanyo Gutiérrez proved in Pretoria that he could still play leading roles.

It remains to be seen whether his performances will convince Gaby Reca and Rodri Ovide to offer him a new adventure in the colors of Argentina.

One thing is certain: at 42, the “Magician” has still not said his last word.

Maceo ZERHAT

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

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