Summary

Patricia 'Patty' Llaguno and Lucía Sainz are two of the most experienced and esteemed players in professional padel, showcasing an outstanding blend of skill, strategy, and determination on the court. Both have reached the highest level of the sport, achieving the notable title of world number one at various times in their careers. Their collaboration, which commenced in mid-2023, is founded on tactical intelligence and adaptability. Unlike many younger teams that often rely on power and speed, Patty and Lucía shine in precision, patience, and the ability to interpret the game at a sophisticated level. Their combined experience enables them to dictate the pace of matches, putting their opponents in challenging situations and exploiting mistakes with calculated plays instead of sheer force. 

Patty Llaguno, who hails from Cartagena, Spain, is renowned for her remarkable defensive abilities and keen court instincts. She plays on the left side, a role that demands both defensive dependability and offensive ingenuity. While she stands at 1.67 meters and may not be the largest player physically, her skill in predicting shots and returning balls accurately makes her one of the toughest opponents to overcome. Patty is celebrated for her outstanding consistency, frequently retrieving shots that appear impossible to handle, which frustrates her rivals and prolongs rallies until they make errors. Her composed nature and extensive experience make her a cornerstone for any team she joins, enabling her to control the pace of play and generate chances for her partner. 

Lucía Sainz, a native of Barcelona, brings a more aggressive and attacking style to the duo, perfectly complementing Patty’s defensive strengths. Having reached the number one ranking in her career, she is a seasoned competitor with a deep understanding of strategic play. Lucía’s skill in finishing points with well-placed volleys and powerful smashes contributes a vital offensive component to the team’s dynamic. Her adaptability is one of her standout qualities, enabling her to alter her approach based on the opponent. Whether she is taking control of the net or crafting points with careful precision, Lucía guarantees that the team remains a persistent threat. Her leadership skills and competitive drive create an ideal balance to Patty’s defensive expertise, making their partnership both stable and adaptable. 

Patty and Lucía have crafted a playing style that emphasizes patience, tactical execution, and smart shot selection. Their skill at prolonging rallies forces their opponents into risky plays, often resulting in unforced errors that they take advantage of with precision. They do not depend on sheer power, but instead focus on strategic placement and movement, making them extremely challenging to compete against. Their extensive experience enables them to maintain composure in high-pressure moments, a quality that has been evident in their impressive performances in major tournaments. While the sport has shifted towards a more physically dominant approach, Patty and Lucía have demonstrated that intelligence, positioning, and resilience remain a successful strategy in professional padel. 

What distinguishes Patty and Lucía is their remarkable ability to adapt and evolve their game while facing younger and more dynamic competitors. The current padel landscape is increasingly influenced by power hitters, yet this pair has demonstrated that strategic play and technical finesse can still excel at the elite level. Their presence on the professional circuit exemplifies that padel encompasses not only physical prowess but also mental resilience, teamwork, and a thorough comprehension of the game’s tactical nuances. Their enduring presence and ongoing achievements in the sport underscore their extraordinary skills, confirming that experience and strategy are essential in the rapidly changing realm of professional padel.

History of Duo

Patricia 'Patty' Llaguno, hailing from Cartagena, Spain, has been a pivotal figure in the world of professional padel for over ten years. Her gameplay is characterized by outstanding defensive abilities, accurate shot placement, and an in-depth understanding of court positioning. Recognized for her skill in returning tough shots and sustaining long rallies, Patty has frequently outmatched her opponents through her patience and resilience. Throughout her journey in the sport, she has teamed up with a range of elite players, modifying her approach to harmonize with various playing styles. Her strategic acumen has established her as one of the most esteemed veterans in the game, and even with the emergence of younger, more aggressive contenders, she has remained fiercely competitive by continually honing her tactics and movement on the court. 

Lucía Sainz, hailing from Barcelona, Spain, has made her mark as a leading figure in women's padel, renowned for her fierce smashes and assertive play at the net. As a former world number one, Lucía has proven herself to be a strong competitor with an aggressive style that often influences the pace of the game. Her ability to adapt enables her to dominate points from both the backline and the net, rendering her an essential member of any doubles team. Throughout her career, she has partnered with some of the best players in the sport and has gained a reputation for her leadership skills and mental resilience in tense situations. Lucía’s knack for concluding points with accuracy and power has become a hallmark of her playing style, standing in contrast to Patty’s more strategic and defensive game.

Establishment of the Partnership 

In the middle of 2023, Patty Llaguno and Lucía Sainz were both at pivotal points in their careers. As padel became a more dynamic and physically demanding sport, they recognized the opportunity to leverage their extensive experience by forming a team capable of competing against younger, high-energy pairs with a more strategic and calculated approach. They announced their partnership during the season, creating a buzz among fans and analysts who acknowledged the potential of their different yet complementary playing styles. 

From the beginning, their collaboration was grounded in mutual respect and understanding. Lucía focused on the offensive gameplay, while Patty’s expertise in defense provided stability to their performance. Their ability to interpret each other’s movements and predict their opponents’ strategies became their greatest asset. With years of combined experience, they aimed to enhance their coordination and strike the right balance between offense and defense. The early stages of their partnership were characterized by experimentation as they adjusted to each other’s playing styles, but their resolve and experience enabled them to quickly establish their rhythm. 

2023: The Beginning of a Seasoned Pair

In the latter part of 2023, Patty and Lucía evaluated their synergy in professional tournaments. Although their early results were inconsistent, their performances exhibited potential as they focused on enhancing their collaboration and flexibility. A pivotal moment in their inaugural season occurred in October when they clinched the FIP Platinum Sardegna title. This achievement was meaningful not only due to the competitive nature of the event but also because it represented their first significant victory as a team. 

In the final match, they delivered an outstanding performance, defeating Carolina Orsi and Carla Mesa in straight sets. The match highlighted their developing synergy, with Lucía's aggressive play at the net perfectly balancing Patty's defensive consistency. This victory boosted their confidence and positioned them as strong contenders for upcoming tournaments. Their success in Sardegna was a testament to the solid foundation of their partnership and set the stage for a more competitive 2024 season. 

2024: Advancing in the Hierarchy 

As they approached 2024, Patty and Lucía were eager to leverage their success and secure their status among the top pairs in women's padel. Their most notable accomplishment of the year occurred during the BNL Italy Major Premier Padel tournament in June, where they delivered a series of exceptional performances. A key moment was their semifinal win against Gemma Triay and Claudia Fernandez, a duo that had been performing exceptionally well throughout the season. 

By winning the match in straight sets (7-5, 6-4), Patty and Lucía showcased remarkable tactical discipline, effectively leveraging their experience to counter their opponents' aggressive play. Patty's solid defense induced errors from their rivals, while Lucía seized every opportunity to attack. Their triumph secured them a spot in their first Major final as a team, marking a significant achievement that highlighted their capacity to compete at the top level. Although they did not win the final, their journey in Italy demonstrated their ability to take on the best teams in the world, solidifying their reputation as one of the most versatile duos on the circuit. 

2025: Moving Forward with Our Journey 

By 2025, Patty Llaguno and Lucía Sainz continue to be a formidable duo in the world of professional padel. Their partnership has showcased resilience and adaptability, demonstrating that experience and strategic insight can often outshine youth and physical prowess. Although they regularly encounter fierce competition from younger and more dynamic teams, their profound knowledge of the game provides them with a distinctive edge. 

They are focused on capturing more significant titles and sustaining their status among the top-ranked pairs in the world. Their collaboration highlights the significance of balance in padel, combining strategic defense with impactful offense. Even as the sport evolves, Patty and Lucía have demonstrated that technical skill, mental toughness, and effective teamwork are vital for achieving success at the highest levels. Their journey serves as an inspiration to upcoming players, showing that with the right approach and commitment, a lasting presence in the sport is attainable.

Preparation and Training

Patricia 'Patty' Llaguno and Lucía Sainz, both experienced figures in the padel world, have crafted a thorough training regimen that showcases their vast expertise and commitment to the sport. Their training program is carefully structured to ensure optimal physical condition, improve technical abilities, and enhance strategic insight. To compete at the highest levels, Patty and Lucía place a strong emphasis on physical fitness. Their conditioning routines consist of cardiovascular exercises for better endurance, strength training to build power and reduce the risk of injury, and flexibility workouts to maintain agility on the court. Given their extensive experience, they also include recovery protocols like physiotherapy sessions and adequate rest to prolong their careers.

The pair routinely participates in technical drills to enhance their shot accuracy, volleying abilities, and defensive strategies. These training sessions typically consist of repetitive practice of specific shots, simulated match situations, and coordination activities to promote effective teamwork. By prioritizing a high level of technical skill, they can execute intricate strategies during competitions proficiently. Aware that padel requires both mental and physical prowess, Patty and Lucía allocate time to study their opponents, review match footage, and formulate tactical strategies. This analytical methodology allows them to adjust their playing style to effectively counter diverse opponents. Their capability to apply well-planned strategies has been fundamental to their triumphs, enabling them to outmaneuver even the toughest competitors.

A crucial aspect of their preparation is the guidance from their coach, Marcela Ferrari. Ferrari's expertise and experience offer invaluable insights into game tactics and mental resilience. Her responsibilities include creating customized training programs, providing strategic advice, and offering psychological support. Under her coaching, Patty and Lucía have refined their skills and achieved significant milestones in their collaboration. Their approach to skill and strategy development combines ongoing learning with adaptability. They consistently engage in competitive matches to test and improve their tactics, ensuring they stay versatile as players. Their dedication to evolving their game was evident in their performances, particularly when they reached the final at the BNL Italy Major Premier Padel tournament in 2024, where they demonstrated outstanding teamwork and strategic execution.

Achievements of the Team

Tournament Successes 

Patricia Llaguno and Lucía Sainz have established themselves as a formidable team in professional padel, achieving crucial tournament victories that have affirmed their status among the elite competitors. A pivotal win occurred in October 2023 at the FIP Platinum Sardegna tournament, marking a significant milestone in the early stages of their partnership. This victory highlighted their capacity to adapt and perform at the highest levels of the sport. In the final match, they showcased an outstanding performance against Carolina Orsi and Carla Mesa, securing a win in straight sets. Their ability to dominate the match through a blend of aggressive net tactics and solid defensive play reflected their teamwork's effectiveness. This triumph not only enhanced their confidence but also positioned them as a genuine contender to the more established pairs in the professional circuit. 

Significant Finals Participations 

In addition to their tournament wins, Llaguno and Sainz have consistently advanced to the later rounds of major competitions, demonstrating their ability to perform under pressure. A standout achievement occurred in June 2024 when they reached the final of the BNL Italy Major Premier Padel tournament. During the event, they exhibited exceptional teamwork and tactical awareness, defeating several top-ranked opponents. Their most significant victory was in the semifinal against the second-seeded pair, Gemma Triay and Claudia Fernandez. In a well-executed match, they achieved a straight-sets victory, displaying their capability to counter aggressive play through strategic shot placement and disciplined court coverage. While they did not succeed in the final, their overall performance throughout the tournament solidified their reputation as one of the most versatile duos on the circuit. 

Performance of the World Padel Tour 

Since establishing their partnership in mid-2023, Llaguno and Sainz have consistently performed well on the World Padel Tour. Their ability to reach the later stages of tournaments highlights their resilience and strategic skills. Despite facing strong competition from younger, more physically imposing teams, their profound understanding of the game has allowed them to stay highly competitive. Their strong defense, paired with well-timed offensive moves, has enabled them to conquer tough rivals and maintain a significant presence in the rankings. Throughout 2024, they have regularly achieved quarterfinal and semifinal placements, keeping them in the upper echelon of women’s padel. Their capacity to adapt their strategies based on their opponents has made them a challenging team to defeat, ensuring their ongoing success in the sport. 

Personal Achievements Before Collaboration 

Prior to joining forces, both Llaguno and Sainz had already established remarkable individual careers, garnering accolades that highlighted their excellence in the sport. Llaguno achieved the milestone of winning the inaugural World Padel Tour title in 2013, a feat that solidified her status as one of the trailblazers of the contemporary professional circuit. Her vast experience and defensive expertise made her a highly sought-after partner, and she consistently delivered impressive performances over the years. Conversely, Lucía Sainz reached the summit of the sport by becoming the world number one, an achievement that underscored her dominance and skill as a player. Her capacity to control the game with assertive net play and powerful shot execution positioned her as one of the most formidable competitors in women’s padel. These individual accomplishments created a solid groundwork for their partnership, as they combined their extensive experience and knowledge in their collaboration. 

Ongoing Development and Future Goals 

Even after their notable achievements, Llaguno and Sainz remain focused on pushing their boundaries and accumulating more titles. Their journey has been characterized by resilience, flexibility, and a united dedication to excellence. As they participate in prominent tournaments, they seek to enhance their partnership and secure even greater triumphs. Their extensive experience enables them to approach matches with a tactical acumen that distinguishes them from many competitors. Looking forward, their main objectives are to clinch a Major title, uphold their top ranking, and solidify their legacy as one of the most formidable duos in professional padel. Their blend of skill, strategy, and experience ensures that they will continue to be a powerful presence in the sport for the foreseeable future.

Competitive Matches and Important Rivalries

Since establishing their partnership in mid-2023, Patricia Llaguno and Lucía Sainz have encountered various tough competitors, which has given rise to significant rivalries and unforgettable matches that have defined their path in the professional padel circuit.

Competition with Ariana Sánchez and Paula Josemaría

One of the most significant rivalries for Llaguno and Sainz has been against the top-ranked duo, Ariana Sánchez and Paula Josemaría. Throughout the 2024 season, Sánchez and Josemaría have consistently outperformed Llaguno and Sainz, securing victories in all their matches. A notable example occurred during the Greenweez Paris Major Premier Padel tournament, where Sánchez and Josemaría decisively defeated Llaguno and Sainz with a score of 6-1, 6-2 in the quarterfinals. This trend continued in later matches, including a quarterfinal encounter at the Master Final 2024, where Sánchez and Josemaría triumphed once more. The repeated results of these matches emphasize the significant challenge that Sánchez and Josemaría pose to Llaguno and Sainz, highlighting the competitive gap that separates the pairs.

Remarkable Win Against Gemma Triay and Claudia Fernandez

A remarkable highlight of Llaguno and Sainz's collaboration was their victory over the second-seeded pair, Gemma Triay and Claudia Fernandez, at the BNL Italy Major Premier Padel tournament in June 2024. In this semifinal match, Llaguno and Sainz implemented a well-thought-out game strategy, winning in straight sets with scores of 7-5, 6-4. This victory held great importance as it represented their first journey to a Major final as a team, showcasing their capability to compete at the highest level and challenge elite opponents. Upcoming Clash with Gemma Triay and Delfi Brea

A new rivalry has emerged between Llaguno and Sainz and the recently formed duo of Gemma Triay and Delfi Brea. In February 2025, at the Riyadh Premier Padel P1 tournament, Triay and Brea faced off against Llaguno and Sainz in the quarterfinals. Triay and Brea achieved a decisive victory, winning the sets 6-4, 6-3, which suggests the possibility of a competitive rivalry in upcoming tournaments. As both teams continue to develop their partnerships, their future encounters are expected to be highly contested, bringing an exciting element to the women's padel circuit.

Current Competitions and Prospective Developments

Llaguno and Sainz have continually encountered elite opponents, resulting in the formation of enduring rivalries that challenge their skills and tactics. Their contests against Sánchez and Josemaría remain a significant obstacle, with Llaguno and Sainz working hard to narrow the performance gap. Furthermore, the developing rivalry with Triay and Brea introduces a fresh element to their competitive environment. As they progress in their partnership, Llaguno and Sainz aim to utilize their experience and strategic insight to tackle these challenges and attain greater success in upcoming tournaments. The professional journey of Patricia Llaguno and Lucía Sainz is characterized by fierce rivalries and crucial matches that have both tested and shaped their partnership. Their resilience and dedication to excellence continue to propel them as they navigate the competitive world of professional padel.

Audience Engagement and Influence

Patricia Llaguno and Lucía Sainz, both experienced padel players, have built a significant and devoted fan base since they teamed up in mid-2023. Their combined skills and unique playing styles have not only attracted a loyal audience but have also had a notable impact on the padel community. Llaguno and Sainz's extensive backgrounds in the sport have gained them individual supporters, and their collaboration has enhanced their overall appeal. Fans are captivated by their perseverance, strategic gameplay, and the wealth of experience they bring to the court. Their capability to compete at a high level, even as they near their 40s, resonates with many fans who value the commitment and endurance needed to sustain such performance. This admiration is evident in their social media activity, where they interact with thousands of followers. For example, Lucía Sainz's Instagram account features over 53,000 followers, highlighting a vibrant online community that supports and tracks their journey.

The brand of the duo is defined by the motto 'Old School is Cool,' a phrase they adopted when they announced their collaboration. This slogan highlights their dedication to demonstrating that experience and tactical intelligence are still crucial elements for success in contemporary padel. Their approach stands in contrast to the younger, more athletically explosive players, offering a narrative that appreciates strategic gameplay and mental sharpness. This branding resonates with a portion of the padel audience that values the traditional aspects of the sport and recognizes the intellectual components of the game.

Llaguno and Sainz have made remarkable contributions to the padel community beyond their performances on the court. Their partnership inspires both current and aspiring players, showing that age and experience can be effectively utilized against younger opponents. They have also been strong supporters of gender equality in the sport. Lucía Sainz, in particular, has endorsed initiatives like equal prize money, introduced by the International Padel Federation (FIP), seeing it as a model worth emulating. Their viewpoints on these matters have ignited discussions within the community, promoting progressive changes aimed at making padel more inclusive and equitable. Patricia Llaguno and Lucía Sainz have developed a devoted fan base thanks to their lasting excellence and unique branding. Their impact goes beyond their match outcomes, as they actively help advance and enrich the padel community.

Current and Upcoming Trends

Patricia Llaguno and Lucía Sainz have established themselves as a powerful duo in the realm of professional padel, demonstrating their skill and tenacity on the court. Their collaboration has been founded on strategic thinking, adaptability, and a robust sense of teamwork, enabling them to consistently challenge the leading players in the sport. As they progress in their careers, they focus on maintaining consistency, competing at the highest level, and achieving greater successes in major tournaments. Even in the face of younger and more physically imposing competitors, they have shown that their strategic mindset and wealth of experience provide them with a distinctive advantage. Their ongoing dedication to improvement and performance has solidified their reputation as one of the most esteemed pairs in the padel circuit. 

Llaguno and Sainz primarily aim to maintain their position in top-level tournaments and consistently advance to the later stages of competitions. Their recent performances have showcased their capability to compete with elite players, having achieved significant victories against highly ranked teams. They are committed to enhancing their standings in professional rankings, ensuring they remain strong contenders in major events. Their involvement in prestigious events, such as Premier Padel competitions, demonstrates their determination to be at the forefront of the sport. By honing their tactical strategies, reinforcing their on-court synergy, and making necessary adjustments based on their opponents’ strengths and weaknesses, they aspire to elevate their game further and contend for more titles in the upcoming seasons. 

Looking forward, Llaguno and Sainz are committed to maintaining their level of performance and adapting to the changing landscape of padel. With younger, more aggressive players entering the circuit, they recognize the necessity of continually enhancing their skills and physical fitness. They aim not only to secure more titles but also to remain a significant force in the sport. Their capacity to analyze and deftly counter aggressive playing styles with their own thoughtful and strategic approach sets them apart as a unique duo. In the upcoming seasons, they aspire to reach the finals of major tournaments more regularly and compete for the most prestigious titles in the sport. Their long-term vision also encompasses inspiring and mentoring the next generation of padel players, particularly encouraging young women to pursue the sport at a professional level. 

To maintain their competitive edge, Llaguno and Sainz have prioritized the enhancement of their overall skills. Their training regimen includes a mix of technical exercises, strategic planning, and physical fitness to improve their stamina and agility. Furthermore, they focus on bolstering their mental resilience, as experience and strategic insights play a crucial role in their style of play. They also stay flexible in their tactics by learning from previous matches and adjusting their game strategies based on their opponents. In addition to their personal achievements, they are dedicated to promoting padel as an emerging sport and aiding its growth by engaging with fans, participating in exhibitions, and supporting initiatives that encourage wider participation in the sport. 

As they progress in their journey, Llaguno and Sainz continue to stand out as a duo recognized for their tenacity and ability to compete at the highest levels. Their wealth of experience, strategic acumen, and dedication to improvement distinguish them from numerous other teams. Although their primary aim is to acquire more titles and maintain their status among the elite players, they are equally committed to making a significant impact on the sport. Their persistent efforts to enhance their skills, adapt to new challenges, and support the padel community ensure their vital presence in the competitive realm of the sport.