Players in action.

KUWAIT CITY, Nov 3 (KUNA): The FIP World Cup Pairs Padel Championship officially kicked off on Monday in Kuwait, taking place at Arena 360 Mall and the Rafa Nadal Academy. The global event features over 250 top male and female players competing for the title, and will continue until November 9.

Tournament Director Mishal Al-Ansari told KUNA that the championship is not only a major sporting event but also a tourist and recreational attraction, drawing audiences from both inside and outside Kuwait. He emphasized that the organizing committee is fully prepared to deliver a world-class tournament, noting that Kuwait’s experienced human resources are capable of managing major international events with professionalism and excellence.

Al-Ansari explained that the competition follows a knockout format, beginning with the main qualifiers before progressing to the round of 16, quarterfinals, semifinals, and the final match. He also invited fans and padel enthusiasts to attend and enjoy exciting matches featuring some of the sport’s biggest names and most skilled players.

Held under the supervision of the International Padel Federation (FIP) and organized by BNK Holding Group, the opening day included 20 matches — 16 in the men’s category and 4 in the women’s. Kuwaiti participation was highlighted in the draw, as Dhari Al-Ansari and his Argentine partner Chioistri faced Spain’s Rodriguez and Argentina’s Robini, while Abdulrahman Al-Awadi and his Spanish partner Marcos went up against Spain’s Gonzalez and Italy’s Casetta.