Key Takeaways
- Nike has initiated contacts to explore signing its first major female padel ambassador.
- Delfi Brea, Martina Calvo, and Andrea Ustero have emerged as the three primary targets on the brand’s radar.
- All three players maintain existing long-term agreements with major sector brands, meaning any potential moves remain in early phases.
American sportswear giant explores major moves in women’s padel
Nike is actively studying an entrance into women’s padel as the brand looks to secure high-profile ambassadors on the professional circuit. Following earlier links with male superstar Agustín Tapia, the American multinational has turned its focus to the female division, exploring potential signings among both established winners and premier young talents.
According to information originally published by Marca Padel, three players lead the brand’s interest: Delfi Brea, Martina Calvo, and Andrea Ustero. While Nike has established contact with player representatives to evaluate their contractual situations and gauge future prospects, no formal agreements have been finalized.
Current targets and contractual situations
Nike representatives have reportedly monitored tournaments in Buenos Aires, Rome, and Paris, engaging in informal conversations with player camps to map out options across different profiles.
| Player | Age | Current sponsor commitments | Key achievements highlighted |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delfi Brea | N/A | Bullpadel | Six titles alongside Gemma Triay; high market influence |
| Martina Calvo | 18 | Babolat (racket, shoes, bags), Oysho (apparel) | Top 10 ranking; youngest player to win an elite title (London); Paris Major finalist |
| Andrea Ustero | 19 | HEAD | World No. 7; three titles; Paris Major champion with Ari Sánchez |
Delfi Brea represents an immediate avenue to align with the absolute elite of the sport. Competing alongside Gemma Triay, the Argentine has captured six titles over the season, including a notable victory in Madrid against Paula Josemaría and Bea González. Nike’s interest in Brea intensified during Premier Padel’s stop in Buenos Aires, where her off-court appeal was prominently on display. However, Brea remains under contract with Bullpadel, a sponsor she regards as a vital foundation in her career.
Alongside proven champions, Nike is evaluating next-generation talent. At 18 years old, Martina Calvo has ascended into the world top 10. Partnered with Claudia Fernández, she reached the final of the Paris Major and became the youngest player in history to win a title at the highest professional level during the London tournament. Calvo is currently tied to Babolat for equipment and Oysho for clothing.
Andrea Ustero, 19, holds the world number seven ranking and secured three trophies during the campaign, capped by winning the Paris Major alongside Ari Sánchez. Ustero has been under contract with HEAD since 2023, representing another firmly committed partnership that Nike would need to navigate.
Broader ambition in the 20×10
The women’s circuit outreach reflects a broader strategy by Nike to expand its presence across padel. Earlier in the year, NOX founder Jesús Ballvé confirmed talks had taken place regarding Agustín Tapia, who remains contracted with NOX through 2028. Rackets sporting the Nike Swoosh also surfaced during a NOCTA event in the United States, further indicating the company’s long-term interest.
With discussions remaining in early exploratory phases, potential signings could extend into 2027 or beyond, depending on existing contracts.
