How Two Veterans Are Redefining Modern Padel With Experience & Intelligence
In an era where power and athleticism dominate professional padel, Patricia "Patty" Llaguno (38) and Lucía Sainz (39) stand out as living proof that experience, strategy, and mental toughness can still triumph. Since joining forces in mid-2023, this Spanish duo has defied expectations, proving that "Old School is Cool"—a mantra they’ve proudly embraced. With three combined World No. 1 rankings between them, they’ve become fan favorites, blending Patty’s impenetrable defense with Lucía’s lethal attack to challenge the sport’s rising young stars.
The Formation of a Legendary Partnership
Two Careers, One Goal
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Patty Llaguno (Cartagena): A defensive mastermind, known for her relentless retrievals and tactical brilliance.
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Lucía Sainz (Barcelona): An aggressive net dominator, famous for her powerful smashes and leadership.
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June 2023: Joined forces after previous splits, creating a perfect balance of defense and attack.
Early Success: The FIP Platinum Sardegna Triumph (Oct 2023)
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First title together, defeating Orsi/Mesa in straight sets.
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Showcased their chemistry and adaptability against younger, faster opponents.
Playing Style: Why They’re Different
Patty Llaguno – The Wall
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Left-side specialist, thrives in long rallies.
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Elite anticipation, forces errors with precision lobs and angled shots.
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Nicknamed "La Muralia" (The Wall) for her defensive resilience.
Lucía Sainz – The Finisher
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Right-side aggressor, dominates at the net with volleys and viboras.
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Clutch performer, steps up in key moments.
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Former World No. 1 (2018), brings championship mentality.
Their Winning Formula
Control the tempo – Slow down power-hitters with deep balls.
Force errors – Extend rallies until opponents crack.
Opportunistic attacks – Lucía pounces on weak returns.
Key Matches & Rivalries
BNL Italy Major 2024 A Breakthrough Run
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Semifinal stunner: Beat Triay/Fernandez (7-5, 6-4).
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First Major final as a duo, proving they could compete with the best.
The Sánchez/Josemaría Challenge
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0-4 record against the current World No. 1s.
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Closest match: 6-4, 6-4 loss in Master Final 2024.
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Goal for 2025: Finally dethrone the queens of padel.
Emerging Rivalry: Triay/Brea
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February 2025: Lost in Riyadh P1 quarterfinals (6-4, 6-3).
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A new test against another elite pair.
Fan Following & Impact
Why Fans Love Them
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Underdog story: Veterans beating younger rivals.
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"Old School is Cool" branding resonates with traditionalists.
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Engaging personalities – Active on social media (Lucía: 53K+ Instagram followers).
Advocates for Change
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Support equal prize money in padel.
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Inspire older athletes to keep competing.
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Mentor young players, proving IQ > athleticism.
2025 & Beyond: What’s Next?
Current Goals
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Win a Premier Padel Major (came close in Italy 2024).
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Break into the top 5 rankings consistently.
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Defeat Sánchez/Josemaría at least once.
Long-Term Legacy
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Prove that experience matters in modern padel.
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Inspire next-gen players to value strategy over pure power.
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Remain competitive into their 40s, setting a new standard.
Conclusion: The Ageless Warriors of Padel
Patty Llaguno and Lucía Sainz are rewriting the rules of professional padel. In a sport increasingly dominated by power and speed, they’ve shown that intelligence, patience, and teamwork can still win. Their journey is far from over—every match they play is a masterclass in tactical padel, and every victory is a triumph for the "old school" way.
