Claudia Fernández: “I needed psychological support… I went from the round of 32 to the finals and to fighting for titles”

At just 20 years old, Claudia Fernández has already established herself as one of the leading figures in world padel. In an interview with MARCA, the Madrid native speaks candidly about her meteoric rise, the difficulties she has faced, and her vision for a long-term career.

"I'm not a child anymore."

From the very first minutes, Claudia Fernández sets the scene. The image of “niña maravilla” begins to fade in favor of a player still developing.

"I would say that I'm no longer a child. Before, I could be seen as a little girl, now I'm closer to being a woman."

A rapid, almost brutal evolution, linked to his early arrival at the highest level.

An ascent as rapid as it was difficult

His transition from the youth circuit to the professional circuit happened very quickly, with all that this implies.

"I went through a difficult period because I was doing everything at the same time: junior tournaments and the pro circuit. I felt a lot of pressure; I had to win at all costs."

A pace that was difficult to sustain, which ultimately forced her to make a choice.

"I remember a tournament where I felt so unwell after a trip that I almost fainted on the court. That's when I realized I couldn't do everything."

"Everything changed very quickly."

In the space of a few months, the Spanish player has gone from being an outsider to a contender for titles.

"I was playing in the round of 32, the round of 16... and suddenly I found myself playing in finals and fighting to win tournaments."

A sudden change, which she admits she had difficulty accepting.

"It was very sudden, it was a bit of a shock, but I'm glad I went through it."

The Gemma Triay stage: between learning and pressure

The turning point came in 2024, when Gemma Triay called him to form a pair.

"When she called me, I didn't hesitate. Of course, there was some fear: would I be up to the task?"

A rich, but demanding experience.

"I learned a great deal, but there were also moments of intense pressure."

However, she retains very positive memories of this collaboration.

"She's very professional; she knows exactly what it takes to be number one."

The loneliness of elite level

One of the most striking aspects of this period remains the management of loneliness.

"When you're outside the top 4, you're always with your partner. Then everything changes: you travel alone, you're alone in the hotel... and it ends up affecting you."

A radical life change, to which she had to adapt.

"I started traveling with my mother because I needed support."

"I needed psychological support."

Claudia Fernández tackles the issue of mental health head-on, a topic that is still too often taboo in sports.

"I've always worked with a sports psychologist. It's the best decision I've ever made."

And she goes even further:

"I recommend it to everyone. Many people think they don't need it, but in my opinion, almost everyone needs it."

A deliberate approach that helped her take a significant step forward in her career.

"When things are going well, everyone writes to you..."

The young Spanish woman also talks about the changes linked to fame.

"When things are going well, everyone writes to you. When things are going badly, only the real ones remain: your family, your friends, your team."

This step back demonstrates a maturity that is already advanced for his age.

A new step with Sofía Araujo

In 2026, Claudia Fernández embarks on a new project with the Portuguese Sofía Araujo.

"I was the one who called her. I was looking for the best option and I felt that she really wanted to play with me."

A project she fully embraces.

"I can guarantee that I will play with Sofía all year round."

The objectives are clear, but measured:

"We want to progress together, feel good on the field, and reach the semi-finals and finals."

"I want to be number 1... but I'm not in a hurry."

Despite her stated ambition, Claudia Fernández refuses to rush things.

"Of course I see myself as number 1. But I'm thinking more along the lines of 25 or 26 years old."

A clear-sighted, long-term vision.

"I'm focusing on myself. If it's meant to happen, it will. And if not, I'll have given it my all."

A maturity already evident

Today, the player feels more stable, both mentally and physically.

"I feel great. And for me, the most important thing isn't just the result, but being at peace with myself."

Between ambition, lucidity and work on herself, Claudia Fernández embodies a new generation of players, more open to mental challenges and determined to build a sustainable career.

Franck Binisti

Franck Binisti discovered padel at the Club des Pyramides in 2009 in the Paris region. Since then, padel has been part of his life. You often see him touring France to cover major French padel events.