Gemma Triay, four‑time world number one with 54 professional titles and more than 100 finals played, has revealed her retirement plans. Speaking on Bullpodcast with journalist Nacho Palencia, she recalled her difficult years in tennis before switching to padel at 18 after an injury. “I remember going to matches and throwing up beforehand. I had a really hard time, I had anxiety,” admitted the player from Alayor.
Discovering padel by chance
Her introduction to padel came during a university tournament. “They lent me a racket, we went to play, and I loved it. In my second year of university, I had to go away for three months on Erasmus, and I bought a racket on Wallapop,” she explained. Triay described the sport as a second chance, offering enjoyment and shared responsibility on court.
Partnership with Alejandra Salazar
Triay highlighted her years alongside Alejandra Salazar as one of the most memorable stages of her career. “It was very fun, a period I remember with great affection,” she said. She praised Salazar as the greatest player in padel history, noting her resilience: “There were moments when she couldn’t even bend down or go down stairs, but then on court she was something else. She has a competitive gene.”
Current teammate Delfi Brea
Triay also compared Salazar with her current partner Delfi Brea. “Delfi reminds me a little of Ale, but she is not yet in her prime. She has a lot to improve, imagine what she can achieve,” she remarked, showing confidence in Brea’s potential.
Looking ahead to retirement
Despite remaining at the top of her game, Triay admitted she is already thinking about the end of her career. “In my head I want to retire in about 5‑6 years because I want to be a mother. Having a family is one of my dreams,” she revealed. For her, the manner of retirement is as important as the timing: “I would like to finish well, not dragging myself on the court,” she concluded.
Triay and Brea’s 2026 record
Triay and Brea have compiled a 19‑4 win‑loss record together in 2026. Their most recent match came on April 26, when they lost the Brussels final to Bea González (world No. 5) and Paula Josemaría (world No. 3) 7‑5, 6‑2.
