The former professional footballer and triple champion of France with OL Éric Abidal was present at the Palais des sports André Brouat during the Cupra All Star Padel Game, during the Human Padel Toulouse Open last June. The opportunity for the former Blaugrana to express his passion for the little yellow ball.

Padel Magazine : This is not the first time we see you on a padel court, what made you love this sport?

Eric Abidal "Basically, I like tennis, although I still notice some differences like a smaller pitch and distinct movement with faster movement speed. I see that everyone has turned to this sport, with players from different backgrounds. Besides, it's a fun sport, and I think that's the most important thing."

Padel Magazine : With which partner do you get along the best?

Eric Abidal "He is not well known! I play with several friends, including my tennis coach. Today, I am associated with Olivier Dacourt, which occupies a completely different role from mine. Him, he destabilizes the opponent and I try to run (laughs)."

Olivier Dacourt - Eric Abidal - Cupra All Star Padel Game

Padel Magazine : Many people have taken up padel, and recently we saw Didier Deschamps in Beausoleil. He mentioned a name, Steve Mandanda, who would be the best padel player among footballers. Could you confirm this information for me, or do you have another player in mind?

Eric Abidal "Well, I'm not sure. We discussed it at the table with the tournament players, and it seems that Steve is playing very well. I was also told about Éric Cubilier (former professional footballer) whom Didier Deschamps knows very well, because he trained him at AS Monaco. I think it's between these two players that it's played."

Padel Magazine : Where are you in this ranking?

Eric Abidal "Oh no, I'm not in this ranking, I take advantage of the moment, I try to have fun.

Eric Abidal (2) - Cupra All Star Padel Game

Padel Magazine : What is the goal today? Beat Cartman?

Eric Abidal "Trying to establish a good understanding with my partner from the start, finding pleasure in playing together, making good exchanges, and above all, allowing everyone to benefit from the experience.”

You can see the interview complete right here.

Vincent Gallie

A fan of oval ball, round ball and also racket sports, he was bitten by padel during his adolescence in Galicia. As comfortable in front of the camera as behind a microphone, Vince will be able to bring his vision and expertise as a passionate fan of the little yellow ball.

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