At MESH, we believe in celebrating the power, elegance, and determination of women who leave a lasting impact. That’s why we are excited to highlight Carolina Navarro, a name that resonates in the world of padel. Known for her tireless spirit and unmatched skill, Carolina has redefined what it means to compete at the highest level.

In this exclusive interview, Carolina shares her insights about her remarkable journey, from the challenges she faced to the victories that shaped her. With a passion for the game and a vision that goes beyond the court, Carolina’s story is one of perseverance, growth, and an unwavering commitment to inspire others.

When and how did your journey in the world of padel begin?

My journey began when I was 18 years old. I started playing tennis at 7 years old, in Málaga, and after several years of competitions and training, at 17 I had to make the decision to compete professionally or continue my studies. I decided to leave tennis to finish my studies and secure a university career for my future. I didn’t know if I could reach the top in tennis or if an injury would keep me off the courts, so I chose to continue with my studies.

It was at that time that a friend of my brother told me there was a new sport – padel. I tried it and got hooked right away. Since I could balance padel with my studies, I started competing in Málaga with my sisters and, very quickly, I took the step into the professional world.

What was the biggest challenge of your career and how did you manage to overcome it? 

My biggest challenge was returning to competition after two anterior cruciate ligament surgeries. The second was only seven months before the Padel World Championship, so it was a "race against time" – it was a real challenge. I had the surgery on February 14 and won the Padel World Championship seven months later. I worked 24/7 on rehabilitation, with the psychologist, physical training, and on the court… Those were incredibly tough seven months, but they were worth it.

A funny curiosity is that when the draw came out, we happened to play against Icíar and Neki, who were the number 1 pair at that time and we had NEVER beaten them; they had been undefeated for about 2 years. So, when I saw the draw and realized we were going to face them in the semifinals, it was a hard blow, because we were the world’s number 1 and 2 pairs, but due to my injury, I had lost my ranking, and the whims of fate led to this confrontation… I told my psychologist that I was recovering for nothing, and he told me the following: “Things happen for a reason” - and that’s exactly what happened. We managed to beat them in 3 very tough sets and then win the World Championship! It was unforgettable.

Who inspires you in the world of padel?

Now that I live padel in a very different way from what it was all my life, I am inspired by all those players who participate in tournaments, probably losing money, but who, still, get up every day to train and pursue their dreams, regardless of the difficulties. Nowadays, those players are my greatest inspiration.

What tips would you give to someone starting in the world of padel and thinking about competing? 

My experience taught me that it is essential to enjoy the process – every day, every training, every competition. Be disciplined, train and always give your best. Have fair play, be a good teammate and respect the opponents, the referee, and your own partner. And, above all, give everything on the court – from the moment you enter until the moment you leave.

Besides, it is essential to know how to lose... and, even more important, to know how to win. Often, that is the most valuable lesson of all.

Any future project you can share with us?

My project for the future is CAROLINA NAVARRO PÁDEL ACADEMY, my academy, a space that will welcome players of all levels – from the most professional to amateurs, including young and veterans.

At CAROLINA NAVARRO PÁDEL ACADEMY, I will apply my own training methodology, a system I developed over the years based on my experience and the knowledge acquired with the coaches I had the privilege to work with. I absorbed the best from each of them and added my personal touch, creating a unique approach that I believe is fundamental for the development of players.

On the other hand, I will continue to give voice and grow with my adapted padel school, PALAS PARA TODOS, so that it continues to be a reference in adapted sports and so that our message of inclusion reaches as far as possible through sports.

Do you have any ritual/superstition before a competition?

I already have few rituals or superstitions on the court... The only one I still keep is always sitting on the bench closest to the referee.

If you weren't a padel athlete, what would you be?

Probably, I would be a tennis player. 

A hobby not related to sports?

My hobby is doing escape rooms!

Favorite jewel?

I'm passionate about all your jewelry even before you invited me for this interview. I'm very classic, so the simpler, the better. 😊