From Real Madrid star and European champion to professional padel player

There are many former footballers who, over the years, end up in other sports, even becoming professionals. There are numerous examples of this, and one of the latest to come to light is Arjen Robben. The Dutchman was at Real Madrid for two seasons (2007/08-2008/09) and, despite having been a great player, he is remembered for the injuries he suffered.

Now, he is a professional padel player and made his debut in the CUPRA FIP Tour, where he achieved his first victory in the preliminary round of the FIP Bronze in Westerbork. He and his partner Werner Lootsma saved six match points to defeat Ralph Boekema and fellow former footballer Mark Weldmate.

Robben's run in this tournament ended when he faced Sten Richters and Thijs Roper in the main draw, who won 6-1 and 6-0. They did not hesitate to state that  "Robben is the best former professional footballer who knows how to play padel."

He Will Not Take It So Seriously

The former Madridist admits that he doesn't see himself as strong enough to take padel as seriously as he could with soccer.  "I don't think I can take it that seriously.  I started with low expectations, although I tried to fight on the court and win as many points as possible," he concluded.

Glass Player

During his two seasons at Real Madrid, the Netherlands international played a total of 65 matches.  He scored 13 goals and provided 14 assists.

He had a very powerful lower body and was one of the best wingers of his era. In addition, he was a very fast player, thus becoming a real threat to opposing defenses.

Wearing the Merengue jersey, he won a league and a Spanish Super Cup. He arrived at the White House after Ramón Calderón, president at the time, decided to pay 36 million euros. He came from Chelsea.

Afterwards, he headed to Bayern Munich and with the German team managed to win the desired Champions League, being the hero of the 2013 final against Dortmund. He scored the goal that gave his team the victory.