Alejandra Salazar: “Losing is normal, winning is not”

Alejandra Salazar She will be playing the final season of her career in 2026. A chapter closes for the most decorated player in the history of the paddle , with 58 tracks and a rare longevity at the highest level.

In an interview with Padel Addict The Spaniard speaks candidly about her journey, her difficulties, but also about what continues to drive her forward.

“This desire to improve myself is in my DNA.”

At 38 years old, despite injuries and physical wear and tear, Salazar maintains the same motivation.

“In my DNA, there is this desire to improve myself every year, to continue to believe that I can give a better version of myself.”

She also accepts the difficulties associated with the passage of time:

“Years go by, the body changes, but all these obstacles become challenges. No matter what happens, I can continue to perform.”

A mindset that sums up his entire career.

A sport that has changed dimensions

Having been present since the circuit's inception, she understands the evolution of the circuit better than anyone. paddle .

“Padel has evolved in every aspect. The players are more professional, the teams are more complete, everything is measured.”

She also emphasizes the spectacular dimension that sport has taken on:

“Today, we fill stadiums with 10,000 to 12,000 people. It's incredible to have experienced that.”

The mental aspect, which has become indispensable

To stay on top, Salazar also had to evolve in its preparation, particularly on a psychological level.

“For years, working with a psychologist has been fundamental. It gives you tools to cope with difficult times.”

She now considers this support essential for performance.

The hardest moment: the illness

Of all the trials she has endured, one stands out above the rest: the myocarditis .

“The heart is vital. I thought to myself: I might not be here anymore. If I had arrived at the hospital later, I wouldn't have made it.”

An episode that changed his perspective:

“It gives you a different perspective. You value everyday life much more.”

“Losing is normal”

In hindsight, she has also learned to deal with defeats differently.

“Losing is normal, winning is not. You have to accept it, keep working and stay humble.”

A philosophy that contrasts with the demands of the highest level, but which explains its longevity.

A message for the new generation

To those who dream of becoming professionals, she conveys a simple message:

“That they never give up, that they remain resilient and that they keep the illusion. That's the driving force.”

She also emphasizes the importance of enjoying the journey:

“I would tell young Alejandra to enjoy every moment, every training session, even more.”

A future already geared towards padel

Even though the end is approaching, Salazar does not intend to distance himself from padel.

With his project GOAT Sports Management She wants to support young players:

“I want to help the new generations, to guide them so that they can focus solely on their game.”

A natural transition for someone who has left her mark on her sport.

Having built one of the most impressive track records in padel, Alejandra Salazar is about to write a new chapter… still with the same passion.

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 !