Chingotto: “Coello told me that if he were to lose the number one spot, he would have liked it to be to me”

At 28 years old, the Argentinian Federico Chingotto comes from a 2025 season where he has came close to the number one spot in the world alongside Alejandro Galán forming the only pair capable of stand up to Arturo Coello and Agustín Tapia over time.

In interview given to Diario Sport Chingotto looks back on this pivotal year, marked by consistency, collective progress and a final frustration that is still very much present.

A benchmark season, despite the final frustration

With eight titles won in 2025 , whose World Pairs Championship in Kuwait Chingotto believes he is playing at the best level of his career, even if the disappointment of Mexico Major The final tournament before the final ranking verdict remains lively.

"It hurts to miss the opportunity to be number one in the last tournament of the year, and you feel a void. But the effort has been consistent all season. We've improved a lot."

The Argentinian insists above all on the project solidity and the feeling of having reached a milestone.

"Last year we won five titles, this year eight. We feel better on the track and our game plan is working very well. I'm happy with the team, my partner, and my level of performance."

What was missing against Coello and Tapia

Facing the world's number ones, Chingotto identifies a specific point to improve: the Finals starts , often favorable to their rivals.

"Our starts to the finals weren't the best. We know we need to improve in that area, but the advantage is that we don't yet have a ceiling."

He also emphasizes the importance of experience in this battle at the top.

"This is only my second season fighting for the number one spot. Galán has already held it, and that helps a lot in managing these moments."

A healthy rivalry with Coello and Tapia

Despite the intensity of the struggle, Chingotto claims a respectful rivalry with Arturo Coello et Agustín Tapia .

"The four of us get along very well. They are two fantastic people. They beat us fairly and they are ushering in a new era in padel."

He highlights their tactical evolution.

"They have an incredible ability to hit winning points, but above all, they have drastically reduced unforced errors."

The embrace exchanged with Coello after the Acapulco final made a lasting impression. Chingotto reveals what it entailed.

"He congratulated me on the fight I put up all season. He told me that if he were to lose the number one spot, he would have liked it to be to me, because I deserved it."

Galán, an obvious partner

Regarding his relationship with Galán, Chingotto does not hide the obviousness of the connection.

"With Ale, I feel completely in harmony. There's a lot of chemistry, both on and off the field."

And even a long-term projection.

"Today, I would tell you that I would like to retire with him. He is my ideal partner."

Criticism as a driving force

Often targeted for its height (1,70 m) and his supposed lack of power, Chingotto admits to having grown up with these remarks.

"I've always received criticism because I'm short. I've even been told I'll never amount to anything."

A pressure that he transforms into fuel.

"I'm focused on my work. Criticism is what motivates me even more to keep training and fighting."

A clear-eyed look at the circuit and 2026 in sight.

When asked about the evolution of the circuit, Chingotto was measured but clear.

"I would reduce the number of tournaments that count towards the rankings."

For the future, the objectives remain simple and clearly stated.

"First and foremost, good health so I can compete well. And, of course, finally reaching that coveted number one spot."

Chingotto is making steady progress, remaining true to its method. In 2026, consistency may well pay off.

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 !