Jon Sanz: No tournament without players in padel

In Marbella, where the Reserve Cup is being held, Jon Sanz gave an extensive interview to Padeladdict. The Navarrese player, currently ranked eleventh in the world, discusses his season start alongside Coki Nieto, the development of their pairing since 2024, and the latest decisions by the FIP and Premier Padel. At the heart of his message is a clear appeal: professional players need a greater voice in a circuit where sporting, economic and media demands keep growing.

A pairing gaining momentum

With Coki Nieto by his side, Jon Sanz is enjoying a solid season. Several quarter-finals, a few semi-finals and a stable position in the upper reaches of the rankings show that the Spanish duo is among the most consistent pairings behind the circuit's top four. Sanz highlights his connection with his partner – not only on court, but also off it.

"With Coki, we have a very strong bond, not just on the court but also away from it. And for me, that matters most," he says. Satisfied with the season so far, he also admits that the next step upwards remains difficult. The top four pairs set an exceptionally high standard. Hard work, confidence and belief that results will come are therefore essential.

As a reference for their current form, Sanz points to their success at the Gijón P2, where he and Nieto knocked out Lebrón and Augsburger and reached the semi-finals. Results like these underline that the duo can compete with the leading favourites in decisive phases.

More united than in 2024

Sanz and Nieto had already played together in 2024. But according to the Navarrese player, today's version of their pairing looks more complete – especially in collective play. Nieto is applying increasing pressure, has improved significantly at the net and pushes forward more consistently.

The decisive difference lies in team culture. "We are more united than in 2024. We support each other more, take better care of one another and truly act as a team," Sanz explains. This mental dimension can tip a season, in his experience. The best pairs almost always reach at least semi-finals or finals – and that confidence changes how you approach big matches.

The FIP, the rules and poor communication

Sanz reacts calmly to the FIP's recent announcements on the points system and tournament formats. He does not dispute that the circuit must keep evolving. What he misses is the involvement of those who compete on court. "What I ask is that things are communicated to us, that we have a voice and can give our opinion. Very often, we are not even asked," he says.

The criticism remains measured but carries weight. Everyone wants to move padel forward, yet poor communication between the various bodies sometimes prevents constructive input from players. Sanz is calling for a dialogue-driven process – especially when decisions directly affect the calendar, points allocation and career planning.

An ever heavier calendar

Sanz does not fully enter the debate on the ideal number of tournaments, but points to an undeniable reality: the workload is increasing. Between Premier Padel, the FIP events needed for ranking points and exhibitions, the season adds up quickly. "Instead of playing 21 tournaments, you sometimes end up playing 25. The load is very high," he says.

He also calls for better conditions for teams and athletes. It is not normal for players to face extra obstacles when managing their image or wellbeing. Those who deliver on court must also be treated fairly off it. His motto remains clear: "Without the players, there is no tournament."

Reserve Cup taken seriously

In Marbella, Sanz is competing at the Reserve Cup – formally an exhibition, but with real competitive and economic stakes. He takes the event seriously: "I come here to win. When I step on court, I give everything." Exhibitions also play an important role in the financial balance of a professional career, as prize money on Premier Padel is not enough for most players.

If earnings on the Premier tour increased significantly, many athletes would probably accept fewer exhibitions. "The body needs rest. If Premier Padel income were higher, maybe instead of doing five exhibitions we would do two," he suggests.

Dream lineup for a World Cup final

To close the interview, Sanz plays along with a thought experiment: which Spanish pairings would he nominate for a hypothetical World Cup final? He names two duos without hesitation – Paquito Navarro with Juan Lebrón, and Coki Nieto with Arturo Coello. He will not commit on a third pairing, but refuses to leave Ale Galán out.

"I cannot leave Ale out. It would depend on current form and on who arrives with the best level to win," he explains. At the highest level, talent and ranking alone are not enough – confidence, mindset and the ability to deliver on the day matter just as much.

Key statements at a glance

• Sanz and Nieto are among the most consistent pairings behind the circuit's top four
• Sanz calls for greater communication and player input on FIP and Premier Padel decisions
• Up to 25 tournaments per season add pressure on top of media and financial demands
• Exhibitions such as the Reserve Cup are an important financial balance for many players