The defending champions want a double. Ale Galan and Juan Lebron, last year’s winners at Allianz Cloud, will play tomorrow to retain the title, which for the number 1 seeds in the men’s draw of Milano Premier Padel P1 would be the first in the circuit in 2023, dominated by Arturo Coello and Agustin Tapia. Galan and Lebron defeated Fede Chingotto and Paquito Navarro 6-3 5-7 6-2: a superb performance by the Spaniards, who, after a challenging season—especially for Lebron – dealing with an elbow injury—are finding their best form.
“I don’t know if what you’re seeing is our best version, but I know it’s certainly unique”, “El Lobo” had said yesterday in a press conference discussing his recent performances with Galan: an analysis that accurately describes today’s performance, starting with dominance in the first set (lasting just 28 minutes) and then continuing with an intense second set. The match seemed over at 5-4 when Galan and Lebron found themselves serving for the match, but they lost the service to zero, giving way to an unleashed Paquito who played the “pala” and sought the encouragement of the Allianz Cloud audience. Despite saving the match point for a potential 6-5 lead for the Spaniards, the break came, sending the match to a third set and igniting enthusiasm in the crowded stands.
The path in the third set was clear, with Lebron and Galan quickly taking command and securing a golden victory toward the goal of a second consecutive triumph in Milan. Honors also to Chingotto and Navarro, greeted by the Allianz audience with ovations and a very long applause. “I am very happy to have reached the final; we are playing at a high level”, said a elated Galan after the match. “It was an almost perfect game. I dedicate this victory to the people who support me, my family, and my friends”. Lebron echoed, “The final means a lot after a difficult year. A big thank you to my team and my family, and to the Milan crowd, truly fantastic”.