The Jiangwan Sports Center in Shanghai will host the fifth edition of the CUPRA FIP Finals, which will take place from Wednesday through Saturday. 16 pairs compete in the men’s and women’s draws of the event, which is organized by the International Padel Federation with assistance from the Chinese Tennis Association and a local promoter.
The Title Defense of Bautista
Jairo Bautista, who won with Fran Guerrero in Bourg-en-Bresse last year, is back to reclaim his title. He teams up with Edu Alonso this time, and the two of them are at the top of the men’s entry list. Juanlu Esbri and Alex Ruiz, who won the FIP Platinum in Lyon in October, come next. While Javi Garrido and Álvaro Cepero aim to end the season on a positive note, Jose Diestro and Javi Garcia arrive as the third seeds.
Women’s Attract Attention
Aranzazu Osoro and Claudia Jensen are clearly the team to beat in the women’s division. They are at the top of the field with FIP rankings of 19 and 12. Jessica Castello and Lorena Rufo arrive with enthusiasm after making it to the Major in Acapulco quarterfinals, while Martina Fassio and Patty Llaguno are seeded second on the other side of the draw. They are more confident going into Shanghai after defeating Paula Josemaria and Ari Sanchez in Mexico.
China’s Stakes
The round of 16 starts the competition, which ends with the crowning of the winners on Saturday, December 6. With 225 FIP ranking points on offer, the competition promises high intensity and significant implications for the end-of-season standings.
In addition to showcasing padel’s expanding global appeal, this edition of the CUPRA FIP Finals lays the groundwork for future rivalries and standout performances at one of the sport’s most significant gatherings.