This is an announcement that has not gone unnoticed in the world of padel. Javi Garrido has officially announced his departure from Cordoba to settle in DubaiA bold, deliberate choice, and above all symbolic of a growing trend on the circuit. In a video posted on his social media, the Andalusian player got straight to the point:

"I'm very happy to announce that I've moved to Dubai to further develop my personal and professional life. I'm eager to grow and take on new challenges."

A simple sentence, but heavy with meaning.

A turning point after a complicated season

This move comes at a pivotal moment in the "Califa's" career. 2025 was clearly not a smooth ride for Garrido. Physical setbacks, inconsistent results, and premature eliminations were not in keeping with the stature of a player accustomed to the top of the rankings.

And yet, the end of the season hinted at something else. Associated with Lucas CampagnoloGarrido, who has also been very solid in recent tournaments, has regained his rhythm, his impact, and above all, his feel for the game. Enough to end the year on a much more positive note than expected.

In 2026, he will leave with Lucas Bergamini. A pair that already knows each other, that has worked in the past, and that is reforming with a clear objective: to establish itself permanently in the top 8 and to become a pair that really matters on the circuit again.

Spain is no longer the sole center of the world

There was a time when almost everything revolved around Madrid, Barcelona, ​​or Valladolid. The academies, the sparring partners, the connections… it was all there. But padel has changed dramatically. The calendar has become international, and staying “at home” has become almost irrelevant during the season.

In this context, certain choices become logical. Top-of-the-range training conditions, attractive taxation, quality of life, new infrastructure… The Emirates would tick many boxes for a professional player today.

Garrido is not an isolated case.

Dubai is attractive, and that's no coincidence.

Before him, Jon sanz had already taken the plunge. The Navarrese man recently explained that he felt "the need for change"The same observation was made on the part of Victoria Iglesiaswho confided with great sincerity:

"Leaving hurts, but sometimes you have to be brave and keep growing."

This group is also joined by Arturo Coello, who has been living in MiamiProof that Spanish roots remain strong, but that everyday life is becoming globalized.

The center of gravity of padel is shifting

The arrival of players like Javi Garrido in Dubai is no longer just a anecdote. It confirms a profound evolution in professional padel. Spanish talent continues to permeate the circuit, but its heart no longer beats exclusively in Spain.

Little by little, other capital cities are gaining importance. And Dubai, clearly, is no longer just an exotic project.

Maceo ZERHAT

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

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