Gemma Triay: world number 1, but affected by criticism

Back to pinnacle of world padel , Gemma Triay is going through a pivotal period in his career. In an interview with the Spanish media Brand The Menorcan player looks back on her season, her association with Delfi Brea , his recent coaching changes and the media pressure surrounding his status. world number 1 It also touches on a more personal subject: the impact of criticism and the work she had to undertake with a psychologist to learn how to manage it.

A new chapter after a turbulent journey

Become again world number 1 This is no small matter for Gemma Triay. Since her first reign with Alejandra Salazar in 2022 The Spanish player has experienced several turning points: changes of partners, new sporting projects and sometimes risky choices.

These decisions have often been commented on, sometimes criticized. But the Majorcan continued to move forward, convinced that these developments were part of her progression.

"Last season was demanding and there were some tougher moments than others. But that's all part of an athlete's journey."

Today, his association with Delfina Brea This allowed him to regain the top spot in the world rankings. And the start of the season seems to confirm this momentum.

"It's a very good start to the year. We won in Gijón and that has a special value because it's our first title together this year."
Tarragona P1 – Brea and Triay dethrone Sánchez / Josemaría and become the new queens of world padel

An association with Brea that has been built up over time

One of the most striking elements of recent months has been the evolution of the partnership she forms with Delfi Brea The two players got to know each other better and built a stronger relationship.

Triay explains that the key was to develop a bond beyond the purely sporting context.

"Today, Delfi and I are better than ever. We know each other much better and our relationship has strengthened."

The previous season had sometimes raised doubts about their solidity, particularly because of the high expectations surrounding this pair.

"A lot of things were said from the outside, but inside the team we were doing very well. We stayed strong and we kept moving forward."

A change of coach to step out of his comfort zone

Another recent turning point: the change of coach. After several years with Rodri Ovide Triay has chosen to start a new cycle with Seba Nerone .

A well-considered choice, motivated by the desire to renew his approach to the game.

"The change came with the idea of stepping outside my comfort zone and listening to different things in order to continue progressing."

According to her, Nerone's arrival also brings a different energy to the team.

"Seba is a very positive person; he likes to joke around and defuse tense situations. That helps me a lot in stressful moments."
Gemma Triay and Rodri Ovide have parted ways, a collaboration that no one saw coming.

Pressure and criticism: working with a psychologist

Being a major figure in women's padel also means significant media exposure. And Triay acknowledges that some of the criticism has affected her.

Especially after the separation from Alejandra Salazar which had sparked a lot of reactions.

"Criticism comes, it hurts, and sometimes we take it in silence."

The player admits she had to learn to manage this aspect of high-level competition.

"I had to work through that with my psychologist, especially after the breakup with Ale."

Behind the sometimes cold or determined image she may project on the track, Triay reminds us that she remains deeply sensitive.

"I'm a very sensitive person, even if people sometimes think the opposite."

A new generation is already emerging

Women's padel is evolving rapidly and Triay is closely observing the arrival of young players capable of shaking up the hierarchy.

She cites in particular Andrea Ustero et Martina Calvo , who, according to her, embody the future of the circuit.

"They arrive without any hang-ups. They play against anyone without trembling and with a lot of energy."

This new generation brings a direct and bold style.

"What surprises me most is that they have no respect in the best sense of the word. They play freely, even in moments of pressure."
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A long career ahead… but a clear life plan

At 32, Triay is not considering an immediate end to her career. She envisions several more seasons at the highest level.

"In my mind, I think I'll play for another five years or so, until 2030."

Beyond sport, however, the Spanish player is beginning to imagine life after her career.

"I would like to be a mother one day. I want to finish my sporting career and then fully experience this new chapter."

The legacy she hopes to leave in padel

When she thinks about the image she will leave in padel, Triay doesn't just talk about titles or rankings.

Above all, she hopes to be recognized for her ability to help her partners progress and to build a true team spirit.

"I would like people to say that I was a player who made her partner play better and who knew how to be a team player."

And beyond the field, she hopes that certain values will also be remembered.

"I would like people to see a humble, demanding person, with dreams and goals, but above all with the values that my parents passed on to me: respect and sharing."

Maceo ZERHAT

Maceo Zerhat discovered padel in 2020 in Savigny-sur-Clairis, Burgundy. He contributed to the club's expansion by bringing his energy and curiosity. Padel Magazinehe transmits his Padel"mania" by skillfully bouncing on all the latest news about your favorite sport!