Westerbork, NextGen shines with Mariano Gonzalez. Koek rules at home with Kurz

It was a weekend to remember for Mariano Gonzalez, a NextGen talent from Paraguayan padel. In Westerbork (Netherlands), the 17-year-old from Encarnación captured his first CUPRA FIP Tour title together with fellow countryman Martin Abud, at the FIP Bronze that also featured the international debut of Arjen Robben on the FIP circuit. Gonzalez and Abud (who less than a month ago had already claimed the FIP Bronze Chile VI) came from behind to beat Simone Cremona and Dylan Cuello (3-6 7-5 6-4), taking the final at the Racketclub. “Today I didn’t just win my first FIP tournament, today I celebrate everything that went into reaching this moment”, said an emotional Gonzalez after the victory. “This win is not just mine, it belongs to my family, my coaches, my friends and to everyone who kept believing in me even when I doubted myself. This title is just the beginning”. Then came the thanks to his partner: “What a tournament, Martin! We never stopped believing and we managed to win really tough matches”.

Also emotional was Marcella Koek, who starred in the women’s tournament together with Victoria Kurz. The Dutch and the German, top seeds in the draw, lived up to expectations by defeating the No.2 seeds Stephanie Weterings and Tia Norton in the final — again with a comeback — (0-6 6-2 6-0). “Playing in my home country is always special”, Koek said after the match. “Thank you Victoria for your fighting spirit and positivity on court, and thanks to the organization for this fantastic tournament.” “Our first title together couldn’t have come at a better time”, replied Kurz. “Thanks for making me feel like a part of your family this weekend”.

Photo credits: Bert Dries