Spanish padel has a new rising star. At just 16 years and 16 days old, Iago Fuertes became the youngest player ever to win a Premier Padel match, achieving the milestone during the Premier Padel Gijón P2 2026. Born in Narón (A Coruña) in 2010, Fuertes has already secured his place in the sport’s history books.
Breaking records at debut
Fuertes reached the minimum age to compete on the professional circuit only days before his breakthrough. On February 13, he celebrated his 16th birthday, and just over two weeks later, he partnered with Antonio Luque to win his qualifying round match 4-6, 6-3, 6-2. The achievement was hailed as a sign of the strength of Spain’s youth system. “Remember this name: Yesterday, during the first round of qualifying, the Spaniard made history by becoming the youngest player ever to win a Premier Padel qualifying match, at just 16 years and 16 days old. The future of padel is in good hands!” read the official announcement.
A promising career already underway
Fuertes is no stranger to competition. He was runner-up in the Spanish Cadet Championship while still in the under-14 category, and the following year he became national champion. His record includes two semifinals and one final in FIP tournaments, where he faced established players such as Juanlu Esbrí and José García Diestro at just 15 years old.
The next generation of Spanish padel
His rapid rise reflects the depth of talent emerging from Spain’s padel system. With his historic victory in Gijón, Fuertes has not only broken records but also signaled the arrival of a new generation ready to carry the sport forward.
Iago Fuertes’ achievement at such a young age highlights both his potential and the growing global appeal of padel, ensuring that his name will be closely followed in the years to come.
