At 42 years,  Sanyo Gutiérrez  continues to travel the circuit with the same passion. A privileged witness to several generations of players, the Argentinian has undertaken an always delicate exercise: to name the five greatest players in the history of padel.

A ranking that is sure to provoke a reaction, both because of the names included... and because of the notable absences.

The game before the titles

Asked by  Twenty Ten Sanyo first explained the criteria that guided his choice. For him, the number of years spent at the top is not enough to define the greatness of a player.

"In a sport that is played by two people, I prefer to judge the level of play and the ability to dominate others," explains the former world number one.

An approach that prioritizes the influence exerted on the game rather than simply the list of achievements.

Sanyo's quintet

Without hesitation, Sanyo places  Juan Martín Díaz  at the top of its hierarchy.

"If we're talking about influence on the game, this is the best example. Twenty years ago, he was already imposing a rhythm that still resembles that of today."

At his side, he naturally retains  Fernando Belasteguín whom he describes as a player who "played perfectly" for much of his career.

His Top 5 is completed by two other Argentine legends,  Roby Gattiker  et  Alejandro Lasaigues before concluding with  Ale Galán , the only active player to join this very exclusive circle.

Sanyo Gutiérrez's ranking:

  1. Juan Martín Díaz
  2. Fernando Belasteguín
  3. Roby Gattiker
  4. Alejandro Lasaigues
  5. Ale Galán

Absences that raise questions

The most striking choice is undoubtedly that of the players left out.

Despite their recent dominance,  Agustín Tapia ,  Arturo Coello  et  Juan Lebrón  are not included in the Argentinian's selection. This is all the more surprising given that Tapia shared the track with Sanyo during the 2021 and 2022 seasons.

By only including Ale Galán among the players still active, Sanyo seems to be rewarding the overall impact of a career rather than the most recent performances.

This ranking is inevitably subjective and will fuel discussions among enthusiasts. Because if there's one impossible task in sports, it's naming the five greatest players of all time.

Maceo ZERHAT

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

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