PADEL CLUBE, Mundelein, IL – April 22, 2025 – The future of American padel was on full display at the recent FIP PROMISES Chicago tournament, held at PADEL CLUBE in Mundelein, IL, from April 18-20, 2025. Young athletes from across the United States and beyond showcased their skills and passion for the sport in a thrilling competition that spanned multiple age categories.
The tournament, sanctioned by the International Padel Federation (FIP), featured boys’ and girls’ divisions in the Under 14, Under 16, and Under 18 age groups. Rudi Kalil, founder of PADEL CLUBE and Tournament Director, was proud to bring the first FIP PROMISES tournament to the USA.
Under 14s Deliver High-Intensity Matches
In the Under 14 Boys division, Diego Bautista Pantoja and Samuel Bravo Ibarra proved to be a dominant force, ultimately claiming victory in the final against Juan Pablo Coana and Jesus Sebastian Ocampo with a score of 7/5 6/4. Emma Cantu and Roberta Berlanga demonstrated exceptional teamwork in the Under 14 Girls category, securing the championship.
Under 16s Showcase Emerging Talent
The Under 16 Boys final saw Nathan Filieri and Benjamin Filieri defeat Aiden Gibly and Tommaso Sarti in a hard-fought match, 6/4 6/3. Emma Cantu and Roberta Berlanga continued their winning streak, also taking home the title in the Under 16 Girls division.
Under 18s Provide a Glimpse into Padel’s Future
Aiden Gibly and Tommaso Sarti emerged victorious in the Under 18 Boys division, overcoming Nathan and Benjamin Filieri in a thrilling final that went to a tie-breaker: 1/6 6/4 10/7. In the Under 18 Girls division, Delfina Inza and Sophie Alarcon showcased their talent by winning the category.
A Word from the USPA
“The FIP Promises in Chicago was a truly unforgettable experience,” said USPA Board Member Leticia Martinez-Bordiu. “Rudi Kalil welcomed our juniors with open arms and hosted us with incredible care at his beautiful Padel Clube, creating a space filled with warmth and passion. The kids gave it everything, competing with heart, determination, and a true love for the game. We couldn’t be prouder to witness this rising generation stepping into their moment. And even after a full day of competition, their energy didn’t fade, they showed up, fired up, for the 2025 National Team tryouts. USPA Junior USA coaches Lorena and Jaume Rouillon led the session with dedication and vision, carefully guiding and evaluating the future stars who will proudly represent the USA at the next World Championship.”
The event garnered positive feedback from participants and coaches alike.
“The FIP tournament in Chicago was a great success. We had many new kids from Miami participating, along with several players from the US team, Mexico, and other cities. Rudi Kalil did an outstanding job hosting and organizing the event, everything ran smoothly, and the courts were always full. Even players who lost in the first round stayed engaged, playing matches and making the most of the experience. As coaches, we were truly impressed by the improvement of so many returning players and excited to discover new talent who aspire to be part of the 2025 US team. The tryouts we did on Friday and Saturday were also a highlight, with six courts running nonstop, packed with matches and motivated players. This weekend was a clear sign of how fast padel is growing in the U.S., especially among juniors. The level, commitment, and passion we witnessed left us more inspired than ever,” said Lorena Rouillon, US National Junior Team coach.
The next opportunity for junior players in the USA is a junior tournament on May 10th and 11th at Padel X in Miami. In the afternoon of May 11th, there will also be US National Junior Team tryouts. For more information and to register, click here.
Full Results
- Under 14 Boys Champions: Diego Bautista Pantoja / Samuel Bravo Ibarra (2)
- Under 14 Girls Champions: Emma Cantu / Roberta Berlanga
- Under 16 Boys Champions: Nathan Filieri / Benjamin Filieri (2)
- Under 16 Girls Champions: Emma Cantu / Roberta Berlanga
- Under 18 Boys Champions: Aiden Gibly / Tommaso Sarti
- Under 18 Girls Champions: Delfina Inza / Sophie Alarcon
The FIP PROMISES Chicago tournament at PADEL CLUBE not only provided a platform for fierce competition but also highlighted the growth of youth padel in the United States. The USPA congratulates all the participants and winners and looks forward to witnessing their continued success in the sport.
