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Introduction

Chris Salisbury’s name is rapidly becoming synonymous with British padel excellence. A former tennis coach who stumbled upon padel in 2016, he has since transformed into one of the UK’s top-ranked players, a national champion, and a key figure in the sport’s growth.

With multiple LTA Padel British Tour titles, international representation for Great Britain, and a commitment to coaching the next generation, Salisbury’s impact on padel extends far beyond the court. This article explores his career, achievements, and vision for the future of British padel.

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From Tennis to Padel: A Natural Transition

Early Days in Tennis

• Began as a tennis coach in London, working at a facility that installed padel courts in 2016.

• Initially played padel recreationally, but quickly fell in love with the sport’s fast-paced, tactical nature.

The Switch to Padel

• Recognized the similarities to tennis (volleys, footwork) but adapted to padel’s unique elements (walls, underhand serves, doubles dynamics).

• By 2021, he was selected to represent Great Britain at the World Padel Championships in Qatar—a pivotal moment in his career.

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Competitive Breakthroughs & Major Titles

2022: Establishing Dominance

• Won the HOP Pro Padel Competition (Harbour Club Chelsea) with partner Rafa Vega, defeating Britain’s #1 pair.

• LTA Tour Grade 1 victory at Rocks Lane, showcasing his tactical intelligence and adaptability.

2024: A Career-Defining Year

• May 2024: Teamed with Alfonso Patacho to win the LTA Padel British Tour Grade 1 in Stratford.

• November 2024: Secured another title at Padium, Canary Wharf, defeating top seeds Louie Harris & Frankie Langan (6-4, 6-3).

• Current FIP Ranking: #657 (as of March 2025), with ambitions to break into the top 500.

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Playing Style & Strengths

 Aggressive Net Play – Uses his tennis volleying skills to dominate at the net.
 Tactical Adaptability – Excels in changing strategies mid-match to counter opponents.
 Elite Doubles Synergy – Forms strong partnerships (e.g., with Patacho & Vega).
 Mental Resilience – Known for performing under pressure in crucial moments.

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Beyond Competition: Coaching & Growing the Game

Role at Roehampton Club

• Coaches aspiring padel players, blending his tennis background with padel expertise.

• Focuses on junior development, aiming to elevate British padel standards.

Ambitions for the Future

• Plans to train in Spain (padel’s epicenter) to refine his coaching methods.

• Advocates for greater padel infrastructure in the UK, pushing for more courts and tournaments.

Giving Back to the Sport

• Works with Padel Lab to promote the game.

• Participates in charity initiatives, including inclusive padel sessions (e.g., LTA Tennis Foundation events).

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Legacy & What’s Next

Chris Salisbury’s journey from tennis coach to padel champion is a testament to hard work and passion. His success has:
 Inspired more UK players to take up padel.
 Strengthened Britain’s presence in international competitions.
 Highlighted padel’s potential as a major UK sport.

Future Goals

• Climb the FIP rankings (target: top 500).

• Win more British Tour titles and compete in major FIP events.

• Develop young talent to ensure long-term growth of British padel.

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Conclusion: A Pioneer of British Padel

Chris Salisbury isn’t just a player—he’s a trailblazer. From discovering padel by chance to becoming a national champion, his story proves that dedication and adaptability can redefine a career.

As padel grows in the UK, Salisbury remains at the forefront—competing, coaching, and inspiring. The best may still be yet to come.