Godallier-Valenzuela triumph in Espoo: their golden summer continues

They began the summer season with victory in France (FIP Silver Narbonne), continued with July successes in Spain and Portugal (FIP Silver Alcalá de Guadaíra and Porto), and last weekend celebrated victory at the FIP Silver Esc Padel II, held in Espoo, Finland. The summer of Lea Godallier and Daiara Valenzuela, ranked No. 49 and No. 57 respectively in the FIP Ranking, has been full of success. Last weekend, they were crowned champions after defeating Sandra Bellver-Alba Gallardo (6-2 6-0) in the final, while in the semi-finals the winners overcame Natalia Molinilla-Maria Teresa Morinigo (6-0 3-6 6-2). “I am really happy with the work our team has done over these four matches in two days” – said Godallier -. “There were ups and downs that made us realise the level we can reach when we have 100% confidence. To my partner Daiara, I say: what a joy to share all this with you!”. Valenzuela also commented on the result, addressing Godallier: “We are making a lot of progress together. In this tournament, we became stronger with every match. I am proud of us.”

In the men’s draw, the title went to Marc Sintes and Coquito Zamora, who, after overcoming Arnau Ayats-Emilio Sanchez (6-7 6-3 6-4) in the semi-finals, defeated Matteo Sargolini and Bentahor Espino (6-2 6-3) in the title match. As was the case with Godallier and Valenzuela in the women’s draw, the summer has also brought a series of excellent results for 2008-born Zamora. Zamora first became European champion with the Spanish youth national team by winning the FIP Junior Euro Padel CUP, held between the end of June and the beginning of July, before claiming the FIP Silver title in Porto. Sintes, meanwhile, has won five titles on the CUPRA FIP Tour. “What a great tournament, it was a pleasure to play with a sporting animal like you, Marc: you played brilliantly” – said Zamora -. “We are very happy with this victory; now it is time to keep training even harder. Thanks to my favourite coach and my mother for accompanying us to this tournament, I owe all this to them.” Sintes also commented on the victory: “Champions in Finland. Coquito, you are a real star: it is a pleasure to play with you”.