The return of the "boss" only lasted the time of a short dance... Alongside his partner Juan Tello, Fernando Belasteguin was defeated today by the resounding score of 6/4 6/1 by the Spanish pair composed of Miguel Benitez andAlberto Cepero (respectively 65e and 48e in the world rankings). Surprise then: the number 7 seed in this P1 disappears as soon as she enters the competition and without any fanfare from Madrid, the city of the heart of King Bela, who lived there for seven years before getting married.

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Less incisive than their opponents

The match had started on an even footing, with Benítez and Cepero winning the first set 6/4 after converting the two break points they had obtained. On the other side, the Tello/Belasteguin pair seemed more awkward and made a few mistakes (15 in total, compared to 13 for their opponents). Above all, the Argentinians were less incisive than their opponents, with 19 winning moves (22 for Benitez/Cepero).

Would they manage to adjust the sights? Back on the track for the second act, they seemed to want to re-energize. But the absence of competition and their lack of automatisms would quickly play tricks on them. Multiplying unprovoked errors, Tello (especially) and Bela quickly made themselves distance and punish with a double break (3/0)The machine was indeed stopped, and the second set was ultimately just a formality for Benítez/Cepero, who won 6/4 6/1.

Without feeling or inspiration, Tello/Belasteguin committed more unforced errors than their opponents in this match (23 against 20), racked up few winning shots (26 against 35) and showed too little solidity in key moments: Only 1 break point converted out of 6, against 5 out of 7 for Benitez/Cepero.

Belasteguin_2024
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A mind of steel

Interviewed a few days ago by Trademarks, the "boss" Bela recalled that he was approaching this P1 in Madrid with great enthusiasm, after having carried out complete physical preparation in August. 

Asked about his association with Juan Tello, he said: “I think we now need to show consistency and, if possible, reach the heights we have reached in some tournaments (…). We have sometimes given the impression of being a very strong pair and, at other times, that we could lose to anyone.”Bela also recalled how several injuries had hampered his seasons over the past three years, while remaining resolutely positive. 

The mental: this is a lesson that King Bela once again gave us in Madrid, he who, in difficulty, never stopped maintaining positive communication with his partner.

Proof that with Belasteguin, we never stop learning!

Frederic Theulé

Not a day goes by without a line… of track padel ! For several years, Frédéric has decided to devote himself to his lifelong passion: the little yellow ball and its merciless world. Addict, did you say addict?

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