He is a regular at the Oysho Milano Premier Padel P1. For Aris Patiniotis, the Milan tournament is not only one of the most important events on the Premier Padel Tour, but also a special opportunity to play in Italy, the country he has represented for several years and with which he has built an increasingly strong bond, becoming a key member of the national team.
“I’ve been coming to Milan since the very first edition; by now, it’s a classic for me,” the Italian player said following the draw at the Allianz Cloud, where he is ready to take to the court once again. His first goal is to get through his opening match against a pair coming through qualifying, with a possible second-round clash against world number 1 seeds Agustin Tapia and Arturo Coello if he wins. It is a prospect Patiniotis looks forward to with enthusiasm. “Playing against them is always a reward for me. We’re talking about the world number 1s, two absolute champions. Of course, it’s something you want, even if it’s an extremely tough challenge. But before thinking about them, I have to take it one match at a time and focus on getting through the first round.”
From Milan to Doha, Patiniotis also has his sights set on the upcoming FIP World Cup, for which he has once again been selected to represent Italy. After winning silver at the 2024 European Championships and bronze at the 2025 edition, the Italian shirt has become a second skin for Patiniotis. He spoke about his bond with his national teammates and his ambitions for the next World Cup: “I always say that my teammates in the national team are like brothers to me. I’m fortunate to be able to represent this country and play alongside them. In Doha, we’ll try to do even better after finishing fourth in the previous edition.”
His bond with Italy is also rooted in his personal life. His family in Puglia, the warm welcome he has received over the years and the many similarities with Argentina, where he was born, make every tournament in Italy different from the others. “Playing in Italy is always special. My family is in Puglia: my sister, my nephew and my mum. The truth is that this country has always treated me incredibly well and reminds me a lot of Argentina.” Patiniotis feels close to both countries, which share a connection that, for him, is also reflected in their approach to sport. “I believe they are brother countries, and that’s also why I love being here so much and feel that the Italian shirt is my own. I love experiencing this atmosphere, in Milan, in Rome and throughout the country.”