In a column that is both offbeat and sincere, Nicolas Molinero, 5th in the P2000 of WinWin Padel Cabriès speaks openly about the issue of physique in padel. With his characteristic humor, he addresses his own relationship with weight, the obstacles to a career that could have been more ambitious, and even launches a public challenge to get back into shape. All of this, of course, takes place in a friendly atmosphere, but with a truly reflective backdrop.

This column is a bit unusual, as we also talk about health, body shape, and all the questions we ask ourselves about padel. Do you have to be tall? Can you be too short? Too heavy? Too muscular? And let's be honest: a little too fat, sometimes?

Nicolas Molinero, with his trademark humor, didn't shy away from the subject. The self-described "a bit overweight" acknowledges that this reality can be a factor in a sport like padel. To the point of setting a clear objective, under penalty of a symbolic sanction.

The interview, conducted in good humor, nonetheless remains the starting point for a real in-depth discussion on performance and investment.

Cross a threshold?

“It depends on your goals. Players who perform better than me are often better prepared physically, but they also have a different set-up. What I was saying is that financially, playing internationally is a real cost. And yet, that's what you have to go through to progress. You need sponsors, partners, stability. It also depends on your personal situation and your availability.”

Nicolas Molinero alex toppin winwin padel cabriès.

Lose those 10 or 15 kilos

The problem in reverse? Shouldn't you first commit 100%, lose those 10 or 15 kilos you were talking about earlier, and then see how far that can take you?

“You're clearly right. I can't ask for something when I'm not giving it my all yet. I'm a nobody right now. But then I ask myself: is it worth it, given my very advanced age of 27, almost 28 on July 8th? (laughs)

When it comes to padel, I'm a dinosaur! No, seriously, you're right. I need to think about it. But in any case, I love this sport. And if one day I really get into it, I'm sure I'll give it my all.”

Fewer opportunities than before in France?

Did players like Ben or Adrien break through because there was less competition in France at the time?

“It's possible. Today, we have more density. But despite that, they're still at the top.

Ben is impressive, very precise. He never makes a wrong choice, he always has the right speed. Very strong.”

Nicolas Molinero: Lose 10 kilos or you'll be punished...

Weight target: minus 10 kg by October 2025

Well, today you told me you weigh 100 kg...

“Yes, that's it. Goal: 90 kg.”

So the goal: -10 kg by October 2025?

“OK, I accept the challenge. 10 kg less.”

Perfect. First, we sign. Then I'll give you the punishment if you fail.

If you don't weigh 90 kg next October, you'll be playing a P1000 with Franck Binisti.

“(Laughs) Isn't this a reward rather than a punishment? Maybe I want to fail this challenge after all!”

Okay, it's done. My official partner for the next P1000 is Nicolas Molinero! Or not...

Franck Binisti

Franck Binisti discovered padel at the Club des Pyramides in 2009 in the Paris region. Since then, padel has been part of his life. You often see him touring France to cover major French padel events.

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