Thiago Alcântara to Play at the Alfred Dunhill Padel Classic
The legendary Spanish footballer, Thiago Alcântara, has confirmed he will participate on both days of the prestigious Alfred Dunhill Padel Classic on 14-15 May at The Hurlingham Club. A midfielder known for his incredible vision, skill, and technical prowess, Alcântara will bring his competitive spirit to the padel court, providing an incredible opportunity for invited guests and Hurlingham Club members to witness a world-class athlete in a different sporting environment.
Alcântara will join a star-studded line-up at the Alfred Dunhill Padel Classic, which includes Sir Andrew Strauss, Michael Vaughan, Judy Murray, Jessica Ennis-Hill, Jamie Redknapp and George Gregan , with more to be confirmed.
From the world of padel, the courts at the Hurlingham Club will be graced by several padel stars including Aimee Gibson, the first British player to make the World Top 100 alongside legendary player, Miguel Lamperti.
Widely regarded as one of the most iconic and enduring faces on the World Padel Tour, Lamperti is a former world champion whose passion for the game sees him still travelling the globe to compete at the age of 46.
A football career to remember
Joining Lamperti, Alcântara, born in Italy to a Brazilian father and Spanish mother, has enjoyed an illustrious football career that has spanned some of Europe’s most elite clubs. Having started his career at Barcelona, Alcântara quickly became one of the most technically gifted midfielders of his generation. His ability to orchestrate play from the middle of the park made him a pivotal figure for Barcelona's iconic team under Pep Guardiola and we will see later this month if he can continue to translate that ability to the padel court.
In 2013, Alcântara made a high-profile move to Bayern Munich, where he continued to shine in the Bundesliga. Over the years, he won numerous league titles, cups, and the Champions League. His consistent performances in midfield made him a linchpin for both Bayern and the Spanish national team. Alcântara’s vision, flair, and ability to read the game have solidified his place as one of the most complete and influential players of his generation.
In 2020, Alcântara made a highly anticipated transfer to Liverpool FC, and his contribution was pivotal in helping Liverpool secure a historic Premier League title in 2020, as well as the Champions League in 2019.
His commitment to social change, and a new challenge on the padel court
Alcântara is passionate about his work with his family's Foundation to foster positive social development and personal well-being, so he is delighted to take part in an event around which fundraising is a key component. All the fundraising this year will benefit the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation, including support for The Hurlingham Club Foundation’s girls' racquets project, Empower.
The partnership between TTB Sport and Laureus Sport for Good at the Alfred Dunhill Padel Classic reflects a shared commitment to harnessing the power of sport as a tool for social change. Last year, Laureus Sport for Good enabled more than 100,000 girls around the world to enjoy the benefits of sport and trained more than 4000 female coaches to support them.
Through this initiative, the Alfred Dunhill Padel Classic aims to provide support to The Hurlingham Club Foundation's vision of creating a thriving and connected community.
Alcântara was famously filmed playing padel on a trip to Liverpool with Dubai joining Mo Salah and Jurgen Klopp on court, showing his prowess. Earlier this year, he joined fellow football star Paul Pogba at the Premier Padel P1 in Miami.
At the event in Miami showed his passion for padel, saying: “It’s fast, dynamic, and so much fun. Since retiring, I’ve been playing almost every day. It’s become a real passion.”
The Alfred Dunhill Padel Classic is co-founded by investment, advisory and marketing group TTB Sport alongside Charlie Grave. TTB Sport founder Nick Hoyle said: “Whether you’re a football fan or a padel enthusiast, Thiago Alcântara’s participation will add a unique flair to the tournament. His elite sporting mindset, dedication, and competitive drive will ensure a memorable and action-packed event.
“Thiago is the latest sports star to confirm they will be at the Hurlingham Club, with more to be named soon. Those guests and Hurlingham Club members are set for a very special occasion - two unforgettable days of sport, camaraderie, and world-class entertainment.”