Javi Leal is looking ahead: "In three or four years, I can become number one"

It's a statement that doesn't go unnoticed. A direct, confident declaration, almost natural coming from a player who has always carried the label of exceptional talent. At just 22 years old, Javi Leal no longer shies away from the question of ambition. Better yet: he embraces it.

In an interview with Brand, on the sidelines of the Generali Hexagon CupThe Andalusian player spoke candidly about his progress, his recent choices, his new life in Dubai, his future partnership with Pablo Cardona… and his highest dreams. Because Leal is no longer hiding it: he wants to reach the top.

A talent that was predicted to explode onto the scene, finally taking off.

From the very beginning, Javi Leal has belonged to that rare category of players whom everyone notices early on. While some, like Ale Galán, built their rise quietly, Leal grew up with the mantle of "predestined." A spectacular backhand, natural power, sometimes overflowing emotional intensity… and that constant feeling that he could single-handedly turn a match around.

After several seasons spent in the elite ranks, it is especially in 2025 that something has changed. His association with Fran Guerrero This marks a real turning point. The results come one after another, confidence grows, and Leal becomes one of the offensive benchmarks of the circuit.

"For me, the real turning point was starting with Fran Guerrero," he simply told Marca.

An almost inevitable relationship, born well before the professional circuit: eight or nine years shared together in youth football. A bond that is immediately felt on the field.

Leal and Guerrero continue to create a sensation in Valladolid

A new season, a new project

Today, Javi Leal begins a new chapter. He starts the season global 16 number, with paul cardona To his right, another immense hope of Spanish padel. A young, explosive, ambitious pair.

Cardona's selection was not a coincidence. When Bergamini announced his intention to change projects, Leal immediately thought of him.

"My first idea was Pablo. I trust him a lot and I think it can work very well between us," he explains.

The stated objective is to get closer to the top 8, even if the road is full of obstacles.

"What could hurt us is facing the top two pairs in the round of 16. They're on another level. But from the third pair onwards, I think we can beat anyone. We're all at the same level."

A realistic and clear-sighted speech, far from empty rhetoric.

A quick pre-season and a fresh start in Dubai

Before even thinking about the first tournaments Premier PadelLeal had to contend with a unique preseason. Short, intense, fragmented by travel. And above all, marked by a major life change: his move to Dubai.

A choice already made by other players on the circuit, such as Javi Garrido.

"The facilities there are completely different. Here they are good, but there they are much better. And then there is also the issue of taxes, obviously," he explains bluntly.

Leal did not leave alone: his partner Victoria Iglesias, 20th player in the world, accompanied him in this new project, an important element in his personal balance.

A different life, more demanding too, but one that clearly reflects a desire for total professionalization.

Dubai, the new epicenter of world padel: why are players leaving?

Between passion, (strong) character and learning

On the pitch, Javi Leal never failed to make an impression. His emotional intensity, sometimes bordering on madness, is part of his DNA. He himself is perfectly aware of this.

"There are times when it makes me feel good, and others when it makes me feel bad. If I'm really struggling in a match, I either lose it completely or I win it because of it. I need to learn to control it better."

A mental process still under construction, but one that is embraced. Leal is not seeking to transform himself, simply to channel this inner fire that is also his strength.

The dream of the World Cup and the dream of being number one

The year 2026 will also be marked by the Championnat du mondeand Leal makes no secret of his desire to be a part of it.

"I think I can be among the eight. If that happens, I'll be the happiest person in the world. Representing Spain at the highest level would be incredible."

But beyond the short term, it's his long-term vision that's most striking. When asked about his dreams, Leal doesn't look away.

"My dream is to be number one. I think I can achieve that in three or four years."

A realistic projection in his eyes, aware of the work still needed, but driven by a deep conviction.

"Obviously, I'd like it to be this year, but given what I still need to improve, I think this timeframe makes more sense."

Leal was close to losing his temper after the elimination — Credit Premier Padel

The Hexagon Cup, for fun

Meanwhile, Leal is also enjoying the moment. Present at the Generali Hexagon Cup under the colors of X Padel TeamHe discovers a new format, more relaxed, more spectacular.

"I'm going to play, enjoy myself, and we'll see," he smiled.

It's also an opportunity to reconnect mike yanguas, a companion on the journey among young people.

And when asked about a dream final, the answer almost sounds like a nod to his personal history:

"Fran and Paco Navarro versus Mike and me."

A mix of nostalgia, friendship and competition. All of which pretty much sums up Javi Leal.

Maceo ZERHAT

Maceo Zerhat discovered padel in 2020 at Domaine De Clairis in Burgundy. He contributed to the club's expansion by bringing his energy and curiosity. Padel Magazinehe transmits his antoushiasme and his " Padel"mania" by skillfully bouncing on all the latest news about your favorite sport!