Alejandra Salazar is one of the great legends of women’s padel: a player who has defined an era thanks to her tactical intelligence, her competitive consistency, and a unique ability to reinvent herself and remain a key player at the global elite level.
Who She Is
Born in Madrid on December 31, 1985, Alejandra Salazar Bengoechea is one of the most important figures in the history of this sport. Right-handed, standing at 1.68 m tall and specializing in the drive position, Ale has built an extraordinary career based on talent, game reading, and fierce competitiveness. Her name is linked to some of the brightest phases of professional padel, having been the world number 1 at various stages: first in 2009 with Carolina Navarro, then in 2016 with Marta Marrero, and later in 2021 and 2022 forming one of the most dominant pairs on the circuit with Gemma Triay.
Popularly known as “Bandejandra”, a nickname that perfectly summarizes one of her most iconic shots, Salazar also represents a story of resilience. Throughout her career, she has overcome significant injuries, always returning with the determination of a champion. This ability to bounce back, compete, and win again is one of the keys explaining her enormous prestige both on and off the court. As of April 2025, she holds the 14th position in the FIP ranking and competes alongside Verónica Virseda, a partner with whom she seeks to remain relevant in the demanding Premier Padel circuit.
Playing Style
Alejandra Salazar’s padel is understood through strategy, rhythm control, and decision-making. From the drive, she acts as a true game director, organizing exchanges, selecting heights, speeds, and directions with outstanding precision. Her most recognizable shot is the bandeja, executed with enormous technical cleanliness, depth, and placement, a tool with which she neutralizes the opponent’s attack and prepares the construction of the point.
More than a power player, Ale is a specialist in managing spaces, reading intentions, and minimizing errors. Her defense stands out for its calmness and anticipation, while at the net she provides a very reliable forehand volley and a great ability to close plays when she detects the opportunity. She also excels in her leadership on the court, her communication with her partner, and her experience competing in high-pressure moments. Her style, ultimately, combines refined technique, a privileged mindset, and a competitive instinct typical of unique players.
Achievements
- World number 1 at various stages with different partners: in 2009 with Carolina Navarro, in 2016 with Marta Marrero, and in 2021 and 2022 with Gemma Triay.
- Winner of more than 50 tournaments on the World Padel Tour, a figure that places her among the most successful players of the modern era.
- Winner of several Master Final titles, with victories in 2013, 2015, 2018, and 2022.
- World Champion in Doubles in 2016, also confirming her dominance at major international events.
- Multiple world and European champion with the Spanish National Team, being a key piece in the national hegemony.
- She has also claimed the title of Spanish Champion on several occasions.
- Her career stands out not only for the titles but for her competitive longevity, remaining among the world’s best for over a decade.
- Currently, she continues to compete in Premier Padel, expanding a legacy that already places her, without question, among the greatest legends of women’s padel.