Sanz and Navarro knock out the No. 4 seeds

One year on, and on the very same stage where they were crowned champions at the inaugural Qatar Airways Premier Padel Finals, Jon Sanz and Coki Nieto crossed paths once again at Palau Sant Jordi. This time, however, with different partners — Nieto alongside Mike Yanguas, and Sanz teaming up with Paquito Navarro.

It was one of the most eagerly anticipated matches of the day, and it lived up to expectations. Sanz and Navarro struck first and took control of the opening set with a superb closing stretch, winning nine of the last ten points and breaking to love to seal a 6-2 advantage. Their efficiency proved decisive: they converted two of three break-point chances, while their opponents were unable to capitalise on either of the two opportunities they created.

The momentum carried over into the start of the second set. After winning 14 consecutive points, Sanz and Navarro pushed the pair coached by Gabi Reca to the brink, going up 0-1, 0-30. Yanguas and Nieto managed to halt the run just in time, stringing together four straight points to avoid the early break.The No. 4 seeds then had their chance to turn the tide. At 2-2, they earned two break opportunities but were unable to convert, and the window quickly closed. In the very next game, Sanz and Navarro made the breakthrough themselves to grab the first break of the second set and move ahead 4-2. With the match seemingly slipping away, Yanguas and Nieto responded. On their fifth break-point chance of the match, they finally broke serve to restore balance and force the set toward a tiebreak. Once there, Sanz and Navarro showed why they have been so reliable in decisive moments since joining forces. Arriving in Barcelona having won five of six tiebreaks as a pair, they added another to that record in emphatic fashion. Two early minibreaks set the tone, and they raced to a 7-2 tiebreak win to close out the match 6-2, 7-6 and secure their place in the semifinals.

In the post-match press conference, the conversation also turned to the pair’s future, with Navarro confirming that the partnership will not continue next season. “It’s been a project that’s given a lot to both of us,” Navarro said. “Jon is one of the best people on Tour. I’m taking away great results, but above all, a great friend.” Navarro was also asked — with a smile — about the music he imagines when celebrating with his trademark air-guitar. His answer was clear: “When I play the guitar, it’s always some rock song — anything by the Red Hot Chili Peppers.” A statement win for Sanz and Navarro, who now move one step closer to repeating history on the Palau Sant Jordi stage.