Bela’s journey ends in Milan – an outstanding career concludes

For over three decades and with an incredible 230 titles to his name, Fernando Belasteguín has been the king of padel. Today, the final chapter of his remarkable career was written as the Argentine left the court in tears for the last time after a loss to Javi Garrido and Lucas Bergamini.

It’s hard to describe Belasteguín’s extraordinary career. Sixteen years as world number one, 230 titles, 286 finals, and six World Championship golds—achievements that have shaped padel history and made him the greatest player the sport has ever seen.

Earlier this year, Bela announced that this would be his final season on the World Tour. That journey ended in the Milano Premier Padel P1, where he played with rising star Tino Libaak, winning their first round match.

In the second round, they faced Lucas Bergamini and Javi Garrido. The match, which ended 6-3, 6-4 to their opponents, was the last of Belasteguín’s career.

Belasteguin's career as a player may be over, but he will still be part of the padel world. In two weeks' time, he will take part in a tribute match alongside former partners such as Juan Martín Díaz and Pablo Lima.

Read also: Filip Björne's column on Bela's career and the visit to his hometown here.