The year 2026 confirmed the rise in power of Belgian padel on the international stage. Far from historically dominant nations, Belgium continued foundational work to establish itself permanently among constantly progressing European countries. This assessment reviews the recorded performances, the evolution of the FIP world ranking, and the challenges that Belgian padel will still have to overcome to reach a new level.
World ranking and participation in major tournaments
The most visible progress is observed in the ranking of the International Padel Federation (FIP). In 2026, Belgium confirmed its regular presence on international circuits, thanks to more structured participation in FIP competitions and Premier Padel circuit tournaments.
Belgian players are no longer content with occasional appearances. They more frequently pass through qualification rounds, access main draws, and on several occasions, manage to compete with pairs from more established nations. This consistency has allowed Belgium to gain places in the European nations ranking, gradually closing the gap with historically more advanced countries.
Belgian players embodying this progress
This dynamic relies primarily on a few individuals capable of performing consistently over time. Leading the way, Clément Geens has established himself as a benchmark for Belgian padel internationally. Consistently present on the FIP circuit and at several Premier Padel stages, he has maintained his position in the world top 100, a still rare performance for a Belgian player at this level.
Around him, other profiles actively contribute to the country’s international visibility. Jérôme Peeters and Bram Coene are among the players regularly competing on the FIP circuit. Their recurring presence in international draws helps strengthen the depth of Belgian padel and consolidate collective results.
Women’s Padel and the Next Generation: A Progressive Development
The development of Belgian women’s padel follows a more discreet, but very real, trajectory. Players like Helena Wyckaert and Jade Van Nieuwenhove represent Belgium on the women’s FIP circuit, particularly during European competitions and team events.
While Belgium does not yet have a player permanently established in the top of the world ranking, the increased participation and international experience gained constitute solid foundations for the future.
At the same time, the development of youth padel is emerging as a strategic issue. The growing participation in FIP Junior tournaments and the structuring of the national circuit make it possible to foresee, in the medium term, the emergence of profiles capable of feeding the senior national teams.
Hope-inspiring performances
On the court, 2026 offered strong moments that galvanized the community.
- The participation of Belgian pairs in the final phases of the Grands Chelems de Premier Padel, especially at home during the Brussels Premier Padel, was a symbolic success.
- The victory of a Belgian duo at a lower-category Premier Padel Open demonstrated real winning potential.
- In the Champions Cup (the Davis Cup of padel), the national team delivered close matches, proving that the gap was narrowing.
Analysis of strengths and upcoming challenges
| Strengths in 2026 | Challenges for 2027 |
|---|---|
| Stability in international FIP draws. | Lack of depth behind the top two or three pairs. |
| Experience gained in major tournaments. | Moving to the next level (top 50) requiring more consistency. |
| Momentum driven by the success of the national circuit (BPT). | Financial and logistical resources still limited compared to the elite. |
The main challenge remains the absence of a benchmark pair capable of consistently reaching the quarterfinals of major tournaments. The development of youth padel and the professionalization of coaching are key to achieving this.
Prospects and objectives for the future
The foundations laid in 2026 are solid. The objectives for 2027 and beyond are clear:
- Stabilize a pair in the world top 50.
- Win a medal at the European Championships.
- Reach a milestone in a Grand Slam by reaching the quarterfinals.
In summary, the 2026 international assessment is very encouraging. It shows a competitive, progressing, and structured Belgian padel. While the challenges of depth and consistency are significant, the national momentum and the players’ passion remain major assets to continue this ascent towards the world elite.
To follow the schedule and results of Belgian players internationally, stay connected on Actu-Padel.com
