At the Foro Italico, Campo 8 becomes the epicenter of passion even without official matches. The reason is simple: the training schedule announces the arrival of giants. Federico Chingotto, despite his modest stature, is greeted like a star, offering countless selfies and autographs before stepping onto the court. Moments later, Ale Galán joins him, slightly delayed but carrying the aura of five titles in 2026 and back-to-back triumphs at the BNL Italy Major. Their debut is set for Wednesday, yet preparations for a third consecutive crown are already underway, with Monday’s late session marking their second workout of the day.
Galán’s quick warm-up
Galán needs only a few minutes of warm-up before launching into a practice set with Pol Hernandez and Guillermo Collado. After six games, tied at 3-3, he leaves the court, allowing the others to continue in a lively two-against-one drill that draws applause. Outside the cage, Galán faces another challenge: fans of all ages bombard him with requests for rackets, caps, towels, shirts, wristbands, even shoes. He politely declines the items but never the photos and autographs, embracing the warmth of the crowd.
Chingotto’s playful finish
While some spectators ask friends to explain padel rules or stop players with bags to prove they recognize them all, Chingotto ends his session with humor. He cheekily steals a ball from Collado, sparking laughter among players and fans alike. As the Argentine departs, attention shifts to Gustavo Pratto, the coach of Coello and Tapia, who is greeted with a flurry of selfies before his protégés arrive.
Coello steps in
Agustín Tapia is absent, but Arturo Coello takes the stage. Wearing a wrist brace on his right arm—irrelevant since he plays left-handed—the world number one trains against Matteo Sargolini and Facundo Rodrigo Luis Lopez, both eliminated in qualifying. For Coello, it is routine; for his sparring partners, it is a rare chance to measure themselves against the very best. Their dream is clear: to face him again soon, this time as true opponents, ideally with Tapia by his side.
Galan and Chingotto in Buenos Aires, ranking, and results
LWLWWWWWWW Galan and Chingotto have achieved a win-loss 29-3 record together in 2026. The last match they played was on the 17th of May when they conquered the Buenos Aires P1 2026 after defeating Coello (world no.1) and Tapia (world no.1) 6-2 6-1 in the final.
Tapia and Coello in Buenos Aires, ranking, and results
WWWWWWWWLW Tapia and Coello have achieved a win-loss 24-5 record together in 2026. The last match they played was on the 17th of May had to surrender to Chingotto (world no.3) and Galan (world no.3) 6-2 6-1 in the final.
