Tribune News Network
Doha
The story of Javier ‘Nico’ Maluf’s, a Grade XII student at GEMS American Academy Qatar, is one of resilience, determination and hard work. As a former international competitive tennis player, he suffered a devastating hip injury that forced him to retire from the sport. Along with the isolation and uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic, he decided to return to Qatar to be with his family just a day before the Hamad International Airport (HIA) was shut down.
While waiting for school to start, Nico’s mother suggested he try a new sport, padel. Nico embraced the challenge, initially learning the game without a coach and teaching himself techniques through various YouTube videos. As he improved, he caught the attention of sponsors who provided him with professional coaching and facilities to train.
Despite having only played for less than two years, Nico quickly established himself as one of the top padel talents in Qatar. In his first competitive tournament, he reached the championship match in the U-16 Juniors category, which fuelled his passion to train even harder. Soon after, he was enrolled at GEMS American Academy Qatar, where he continued to excel both academically and athletically.
As a school that values table tennis, Nico was able to improve his swing technique during open periods and lunchtime each day. His perseverance and tenacity throughout his journey have been impressive. From suffering a devastating injury that forced him to retire from tennis and being stranded without his family in Spain to starting a new sport on his own, he has consistently shown his dedication and passion for excellence.
Nico’s hard work has paid off, as he is now sponsored by three different companies and recently won the championship trophy and QR30,000 in prize money for the Padel In Cup 2023 team competition held from April 2 to 8. Winning this tournament was an incredible accomplishment for Nico, and he believes that with perseverance, hard work and dedication, anyone can achieve significant success. The tournament was one of the best Nico has ever played in, and he attributes his victory to the amazing teamwork of his padel team. Nico’s story is a testament to the power of resilience and devotion, and he serves as an inspiration to anyone facing obstacles in their lives.