Alex Ruiz: “On social media, I get attacked as if I were a criminal every time I lose”

Alex Ruiz is going through a period of transition. After a year 2024 marked by incessant changes of partners and sometimes virulent criticism, he speaks in an interview with BRAND to frankly address his mistakes, his regrets, but also his motivation for 2025.

Serial changes of partners

For Alex Ruiz, 2024 has been anything but linear. After starting the season with Juan Tello, he chains the changes with Javi Garrido, Momo González and finally Alex Chozas, before now partnering with Maxi Sánchez.

“I needed stability after all these breakups. With Maxi, I'm calm. He's a consistent player, who allows me to be more open on the pitch. I think this combination can really help us aim high this season,” explains Alex.

Regrets with Momo González

The return to Momo González, his former partner with whom he had enjoyed great success, did not last. Alex also acknowledges that the separation from Momo remains a painful point.

“I feel terrible about it. I made this decision out of ambition, thinking that playing with Javi Garrido was the most promising option. But looking back, I know it was a mistake. I didn't dare talk about all this with Momo, and even today, I feel a little stupid for not doing so.”

Repeated criticism

Accustomed to harsh comments on social media, Alex Ruiz has decided to distance himself from them to preserve his mental health. “On Twitter, I get attacked like a criminal every time I lose. At some point, it became unbearable, so I preferred to distance myself. Today, I focus on those who truly support me.”

His experience with Stupaczuk, during their early collaborations, also taught him how to handle pressure: “At that time, I wanted to prove myself so much that it consumed me. Now, I try to be calmer and focus on the pleasure of playing.”

A role of president assumed

In addition to his sporting challenges, Alex Ruiz is also president of the Professional Padel Association (PPA). A task he has taken on in an attempt to bring more transparency and serenity to the world of padel. “The path is complicated, but I am optimistic. With dialogue and goodwill, we can find solutions to current conflicts.”

An association with Maxi Sánchez

Alex is counting on his new association with Maxi Sánchez to get back to his best level. “We both want to do well and achieve our goals. Maxi is a rock on the court, and I'm confident that his consistency will allow me to play more aggressively and freely.”

Ambitions intact

Despite a challenging year, Alex Ruiz has lost none of his ambition. “I always want to progress, aim for the top, and continue to fight on the pitch. This desire to reach for the best in myself is still there.”

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 !