Paula Josemaria and Ari Sanchez Announce Their Separation After Five Historic Seasons
Paula Josemaria and Ari Sanchez end their historic five-year partnership in womens padel. After 44 titles and two seasons as world No. 1, the duo will split after the Barcelona Finals.
- Author: PadelPedia Editorial Team
- Published:
Womens padel has been shaken by one of the most unexpected announcements in recent years: Paula Josemaria and Ari Sanchez will not continue together in 2026. The pair, currently ranked world No. 2, confirmed the news through a joint statement on social media, putting an end to a partnership that defined an era.
Their final tournament together will be the Premier Padel Finals in Barcelona, a symbolic stage where they lifted the trophy last season.
An Era of Dominance Comes to an End
Formed in 2021, Sanchez and Josemaria quickly became the team to beat. Across five seasons, they built a legacy rarely seen in professional padel:
- 44 titles, the most ever won by a womens pair
- Back-to-back world No. 1 standings in 2023 and 2024
- Record-breaking seasons, including 14 titles in a single year
- Trophies lifted across all four continents where Premier Padel is played
Their blend of styles shaped a nearly unbeatable formula:
- Sanchez, known for her tactical intelligence and creativity
- Josemaria, feared for her power, explosiveness, and finishing ability
Together, they became one of the most consistent and admired duos the circuit has ever seen.
Why the Split? A Project That Lost Momentum
Although their cycle seemed unshakeable, warning signs appeared in 2025 and 2026:
- Loss of the world No. 1 spot to Delfi Brea and Gemma Triay
- Costly defeats in Dubai (semifinals) and Acapulco (round of 16)
- Growing difficulty in maintaining the rhythm and pressure at the top
Despite winning the FIP World Cup Pairs in Kuwait, the project no longer felt as solid. According to sources, performance dips, accumulated wear, and the need for new challenges pushed both players to consider a new chapter.
In a circuit where physical demands and travel intensity are higher than ever, even the longest-lasting teams eventually feel the strain.
A Farewell Marked by Gratitude
Their joint message highlighted the emotional significance of the separation:
"After five years sharing goals, effort, and emotions on and off the court, we close a very special chapter. It has been a fantastic journey, full of joy and difficult moments. We will always keep the affection we have for each other."
Both players emphasized that the breakup is purely professional and that their friendship remains intact.
Barcelona Finals: The Last Dance
The Barcelona Finals will serve as the grand finale of an iconic partnership. A packed Palau Sant Jordi is expected to witness their last performance together — a tribute to five unforgettable years.
What Comes Next? The Womens Circuit Braces for Change
The separation of Sanchez and Josemaria triggers a chain reaction in the womens draw. Two of the most coveted players in the world are now available, and multiple top names could be part of the reshuffle.
Possible future partners being discussed include:
Only two will join Ari and Paula in 2026, decisions that could redefine the competitive landscape.
A Legacy That Will Endure
Regardless of what comes next, the achievements of Sanchez and Josemaria are already part of padel history. Their cycle established new standards in teamwork, performance, and resilience.
The end of this legendary duo opens the door to new alliances, but their five-year journey will remain a reference point for future generations.