Padel in Bendinat: Atmosphere, Networking — and the Scent of Espresso

Padel party in Bendinat: When the club becomes the village square

On an early Saturday morning the sun was already hot on the pine trees at the Bendinat Urban Country Club, and the venue filled up like a little market day — only with rackets instead of shopping bags. Around 120 players from several countries arrived, families settled on the terraces, and everywhere there was that familiar mix of espresso, barbecue smoke and cicadas in the air. For a day the club was more of a meeting place than a sports facility.

Five divisions, many stories

Matches were played in five categories, and the encounters were often so close that applause echoed across the venue long after the points were decided. In the top men's division Daniel Hansson and Javi Román prevailed, while in the fourth category Marvin Bonitz and Carlos Cidon took home the trophy. The fifth men's division also produced surprises, and in the women's and mixed events every point was fought for: Blanca Martín and Ignacio Freire won the mixed competition, and in the women's draw Rachel Angel and María Duval triumphed.

Between matches one encountered the usual island-life panoply: parents taking photos, friends embracing with loud laughter, and a few retirees commenting on every rally. From the stands you could hear the clinking of glasses, the occasional beep of a phone — and repeatedly the rhythmic thud of balls against the glass walls. Praxis Savios provided physiotherapy sessions and saved many a player so they could make it to their next match.

Sponsors, gifts and an evening with style

Without partners an event of this scale would have been hard to imagine. Local and international companies provided prizes: gift baskets full of regional wines, hotel vouchers and pieces of furniture that will surely have a place of honor in the winner's home. After the award ceremony the club hosted a cocktail reception — caviar and champagne played counterpoint to the down-to-earth grill on the terrace. It was clear that alongside sport, networking had a firm place. In a charming tone Christer Hasson and Paula Serra thanked the participants, while Toni Calafell presented the trophies.

Local moments that linger

Especially touching were the small scenes on the sidelines: a young player whose joy turned to tears when he won a major event in Mallorca for the first time; an older couple loudly cheering every point; children collecting autographs like treasures. These moments made the day so Mallorcan: warm, a little loud and full of life. The conversations after dusk — about tactics, future tournaments and whether there should be a repeat next year — also showed that the Cup was more than a one-off event.

Outlook: more padel, more encounters

Already in the evening plans for the future were being discussed: a second tournament is being considered, which is welcome news for the island's padel community. Such events bring people together, boost local trade and leave traces at small hotels, bars and service providers on site — from the physiotherapist to the catering company. If the courts are as sought-after next time, my tip to everyone is: register early and bring time — for matches, conversations and the occasional espresso in the Bendinat sun.