The score was 6-5 in the first set of the semi-final of the Premier Padel P2 of Bordeaux between Gemma Triay / Delfi Brea and Ariana Sánchez / Andrea Ustero. After more than an hour of an extremely balanced fight, a single point would finally change the course of the match.

On set point, Delfi Brea opted for an early half-volley. The attempt was daring; the ball grazed the net cord before landing on the correct side. Winner. The first set was won.

At first glance, it seems like just one point among many. Yet, it will completely change the complexion of the match.

Momentum, that invisible advantage

At the highest level, mental strength is often just as important as technique. By winning this crucial point, Delfi Brea and Gemma Triay return to the bench with renewed confidence. Conversely, Ariana Sánchez and Andrea Ustero have just missed an opportunity to get back into the game.

The second set perfectly illustrates this phenomenon. Playing with more freedom, Delfi Brea takes more risks. Her shots become more aggressive, her initiatives multiply, and, most importantly, they succeed. In fact, her second return of serve is a winning cross-court shot… The number one players gradually take control of the rallies and cruise to a 6-1 victory.

This type of scenario is common in padel. A crucial point isn't just worth a point on the scoreboard. It can completely reverse the psychological dynamic of a match.

Roger Federer: Winning the points that count

This situation is reminiscent of a famous phrase from Roger Federer during his graduation speech at Dartmouth College in 2024.

The Swiss player explained that during his professional career, he had only won  54% of the points contested , when he had won nearly  80% of his matches .

His message was simple: even the greatest champions lose almost half the points. The difference lies not in dominating every rally, but in the ability to perform when the score becomes decisive.

In other words, a break at 1-1 doesn't carry the same weight as a set or match point. Great players know how to raise their level precisely in those moments.

A quality common to all the greatest champions

Whether in tennis, padel or many individual sports, champions possess this ability to rise to the occasion in moments of truth.

Delfi Brea's winning half-volley in Bordeaux is a perfect illustration of this. Technically, the shot was already difficult. Pulling it off on set point against one of the best teams in the world gives it a whole new dimension.

This point not only gave his team the first set, but it also launched an irresistible momentum that culminated in a 6/1 victory in the second set.

Statistics may only record the final score. Yet, those who watched the match know that it likely hinged on that half-volley. Further proof that, at the highest level, champions don't win every point, but they often win the ones that make all the difference.

Antoine Tricolet

I discovered the Padel I stumbled into Spain at a campsite. I was instantly hooked; passionate about padel, I follow international and regional news with the same excitement as the sport itself.

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