When 77th edition of the Gran Gala de Mundo Deportivo, Fernando Belasteguín received a moving tribute for his entire career. Perhaps the most memorable moment of the evening was when Rafael Nadal and the entire audience stood up to applaud his career.

Belasteguín, who retired at the end of the 2024 season, received the Portaventura trophy in recognition of his immense journey. 45 years, he leaves behind a unique career:

  • 16 year old world number 1
  • 230 tracks
  • 286 final contests
  • 6 world championships with Argentina

Deeply touched by this tribute, Belasteguín expressed his gratitude on social networks:
“Thank you very much to Mundo Deportivo for this distinction that rewards my career.
It was a pleasure to share this evening with great athletes.
I was very moved when the whole audience stood up to applaud, especially Rafael Nadal, the greatest Spanish sportsman in history.”

Benjamin Dupouy

I discovered padel directly during a tournament, and frankly, I didn't really like it at first. But the second time, it was love at first sight, and since then, I haven't missed a single match. I'm even ready to stay up until 3am to watch a final of Premier Padel !