Fede Chingotto and Ale Galán are in Rome with one ambition: to once again inscribe their names in the list of winners of the BNL Italy Major Premier Padel. Already crowned in 2024, the two men intend to repeat the feat on the legendary site of Foro Italico, where Galán had already triumphed in 2022, alongside Juan Lebrón.

In the tournament's central press room, a photo of their victory last year hangs on the wall. It doesn't go unnoticed by the two players, who look at it with a smile, as a reminder of their success and an additional source of motivation. Ale Galán, recovered from the digestive problems that forced him to withdraw from the P1 in Buenos Aires, says in fine fettle and eager to return to competition:

“I recovered well in Spain. Here, sport is everywhere; it's a pleasure to be back.”

Clear ambitions in a fight at the top

The stakes are high: the points at stake could allow them to regain the lead in the standings, in a frantic race for the number 1 spotTheir first Major victory in 2024, already here in Rome, had marked a turning point. It was followed by a title in Genoa, before a drop in form and the asserted domination of Coello / Tapia.

But 2025 has started well for the “Chingalan” pair, with three prestigious titles to Miami, Santiago et Assumption. Galán confirms this:

“The goal is clear: to win again here and change the picture on the wall to an updated version.”

A healthy rivalry with Coello and Tapia

Asked about the comparison between the rivalry Alcaraz / Sinner in tennis and the one they maintain with Arturo Coello and Agustín Tapia, Galán remains measured:

“I don't really like comparing sports or careers, but there's real competition between them. It's healthy, stimulating, and it pushes us to give our best. Carlos is making history in Spanish tennis, a bit like Rafa Nadal did. I hope we can follow that path in our sport.”

Chingotto: from padel to carbonara, Rome in the heart

For Chingotto, Rome brings back fond memories, but also a chance to take revenge. In 2023, he lost the final there to Coello and Tapia, while teaming up with Paquito Navarro.

“Coming back here is special. We obviously want to defend our title, but it all starts in training. It's the daily effort that leads to great results. In difficult times, the mental aspect is crucial. We rely on each other and try to pull the team up.”

The Argentinian also hopes to enjoy a little la dolce vita:

“We're still very focused on preparation, but I hope to see the Trevi Fountain... and eat a good carbonara. Any excuse is good to have one.

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