Grégory Sertic, former professional footballer, turns to padel. Present during a Betclic Remontada event on 4Padel Montreuil, he goes to Franck Binisti's microphone. Excerpts.

His first steps in padel

“My discovery of padel was done during an internship with Olympique de Marseille, in Algarve, Portugal. I was immediately seduced by its playful and friendly side. Now I often play with friends, including former footballers.”

The importance of padel in football training

“I quickly realized the importance of padel in football training. Coaches like Unai Emery have integrated it into their programs to improve players' support and change of direction. Play at padel with my midfield teammates had strengthened our bond and our communication on the pitch. THE padel is not only a physical exercise, it is also an effective way to consolidate team bonds and develop better coordination.

Ball tennis has always been a favorite exercise for some players for training, and I don't think that will change. However, the padel offers a new dimension because it promotes conviviality and sharing.

For me, the best players padel among footballers are Clément Chantôme and Bruno Cheyrou. They are very good players, they play very regularly, every week, but we feel that there is a great complementarity, complicity between the two.”

Cheyrou Chantome 4Padel Comeback

Le padel as a rehabilitation tool

“I am convinced that the padel can be a great way to rehabilitate after an injury. Having undergone several knee operations myself, I know how important it is to regain confidence in your support.

Le padel, with its need for quick and precise movements, is ideal for this. It’s a sport which, while being fun, allows you to rebuild yourself physically and mentally after an injury.”

“In the future, I think that integrating the padel in footballers' training programs would be a good idea. I am convinced that the padel can add a fun dimension and be beneficial to training, especially during the pre-season. This not only allows a break from the usual routine, but also strengthens team spirit and coordination.”

“I appreciate the padel, and I wonder if I couldn't practice it more seriously. Although I still have a lot to learn, the idea of ​​moving to Portugal to train with local coaches is appealing.”

Dorian Massy

New follower of padel, I am fascinated by this dynamic sport which combines strategy and agility. I find in the padel a new passion to explore and share with you on Padel Magazine.