Maxi Sanchez expands padel presence in Italy with NWG Arena

Former world number one Maxi Sanchez is expanding his influence on the Italian padel scene through the NWG Padel Evolution project. At the Italian Padel Awards held at Rome's Stadio Olimpico, Sanchez was honored with the ‘Legend’ award in recognition of his twenty-year career and his commitment to developing young talent in Italy.

As part of this initiative, the NWG Arena has opened in the Galciana district of Prato. The facility serves as a multifunctional sports hub, featuring twelve padel courts—including nine indoor and two outdoor courts—alongside a central arena capable of seating 400 spectators. The complex also includes three tennis courts, four pickleball courts, two swimming pools, and comprehensive medical and personal training services.

Additionally, the site hosts the Shark Academy, led by Sanchez, which is designed to identify and train the next generation of padel stars.