Dubai: History was made when the team of Abhullah Ahli and Fares Aljanahi smashed their way into the country’s sporting record-books as the debut champions of the inaugural edition of the UAE Nationals Padel Tournament.

The centre court at Padel Point Sharjah came alive when the duo Abhullah Ahli (UAEPA Rank 17) and Fares Aljanahi (UAEPA Rank 16) fought hard to beat Saeed Almarri (UAEPA Rank 2) and Mohammed Aljanahi (UAEPA Rank 8) and win the UAE’s first padel tournament exclusively for nationals.

The first edition of the UAE Nationals Padel Tournament was organised by Matchspot and sponsored by Simple, The Padelers, Absolute Zero, and Padel It. The tournament saw an unprecedented support from Emirati sportspersons and fans, with more than 170 teams participating in the three-week-long tournament.

The champions walked away with a beautiful trophy, medals and Dh5,000 in cash prize after more than 120 minutes of fiercely-fought finals. Runners-up Saeed Almarri and Mohammed Aljanahi received medals, a trophy and Dh2,500 in cash.

Khalid Al Shamsi, Co-Founder and CEO of Padel Point, said: “The successful conclusion of the inaugural edition of the UAE Nationals Padel Tournament 2021 is another feather in the cap of the UAE Padel Association and bears testimony to the country’s excellent sports infrastructure. As the world battles the pandemic, the UAE has led the way with vaccinations and social discipline. On behalf of organisers Matchspot and all the sponsors, I wish to sincerely thank the authorities for helping us host the debut edition of this tournament during what can only be described as a globally challenging period.”

He added that the organisers and sponsors were extremely happy with the turnout, and hoped for an even bigger tournament next year. “We hope to return next year with even more action and fanfare,” he said.

The UAE Nationals Padel Tournament came as a result of the vision of the country’s leaders who continue to promote and provide support for all sports and to enhance the UAE’s position as a global hub for sporting excellence.