Miguel Lamperti, the uncrowned king who explains the Belgian love affair with paddle tennis

Last week, Brussels was home to the world’s top padel players. The event showcased the number one ranked players, Coello and Tapia, who have established themselves as a dominant force in the sport. Other pairs, such as Brea/González and Yanguas/Garrido, also demonstrated their strength and potential. However, some unexpected results occurred, with couples like Navarro/Lebron and Triay/Fernández falling earlier than expected. On the other hand, emerging pairs like Galán and Chingotto made an impressive mark, achieving a final and a victory in just two tournaments. The standout moment came on Sunday, when Galán and Chingotto secured a well-deserved win at the renowned Gare Maritime facilities, located in the heart of the Belgian capital.

Over the years, padel has gained tremendous popularity not only in Sweden, the Netherlands, and Italy but also in Belgium. This surge in interest can be attributed, in part, to the impact of the pandemic. Previously, there were only four padel places in Belgium, and the game was predominantly played by Spanish-speaking athletes. However, the sport has grown significantly, with numerous courts, clubs, and coaches emerging across the country. Booking a padel court has become a challenge, with availability often limited until 10:00 p.m. Notably, Belgian athletes like Yannik Carrasco have invested in padel facilities, and local padel brands have also emerged. The enthusiasm for padel was evident throughout the weekend, as a large number of fans filled the stands at the Gare Maritime to witness the thrilling matches.

While the cameras and organizers focused on the top stars who provided spectacular performances, the heart of the stands belonged to a veteran player, Miguel Lamperti. At 45 years old, Lamperti is a legendary showman known for his charisma both on and off the court. The stands erupted with chants of “Miguel, Miguel” as he achieved an epic victory in the round of 16. Fans continued to rally behind him on Friday, as Lamperti and his partner Belluati came close to defeating the best players in the world. Lamperti embodies the spirit of old-school padel, compared to the younger and physically imposing players who effortlessly dominate the game. The crowd easily identified with Lamperti’s fearless charge against seemingly insurmountable opponents. Despite the inevitable outcome, Lamperti’s relentless determination resonated with the Belgian audience who appreciate his refusal to back down.

Lamperti’s story epitomizes the unwavering passion of Belgians, both for padel and for life itself. Belgians, much like their revered national hero, possess a resilience that allows them to overcome adversity. They never give up, always bouncing back from the most challenging situations. Lamperti’s approach to the game symbolizes the boldness and audacity that Belgians aspire to have in their lives. He radiates enthusiasm, fearlessness, and a complete disregard for danger, as he attempts daring shots and defies conventional wisdom. Lamperti’s sweaty, exhausted, and emotional state after a match mirrors the legends of classic flamenco performers. He plays without fear, taking on opponents without considering their reputations or physical size. Although victory may elude him most of the time, Lamperti embodies the spirit of a true Belgian – not defined by wins, but by bravery, heroism, and the willingness to take risks. In war, a Belgian stands out as the only one with a parachute on a submarine. Every Friday, Lamperti embodies this spirit and captivates the hearts of the Belgian audience.