Gemma Triay, a Roman love story: “In Rome I feel loved, playing here is unique”

She was the first champion of the BNL Italy Major Premier Padel, during the debut of the "combined" format in 2023, but Gemma Triay's connection with the Eternal City goes far beyond court results. Currently number 3 in the FIP world rankings—and chasing the top spot again—Gemma describes her deep affection for Rome: “I feel loved here, for me it’s like a second home. People here are joyful and expressive, and every visit is a pleasant surprise,” she said in perfect Italian after her sweeping 6-0 win in the round of 16 alongside Delfi Brea over Raquel Eugenio and Maria Virginia Riera.

Romans have enchanted her, and she repays them both on court and with an uncommon openness: “Yes, I feel great and fully in tune with the people, who are so warm and kind. It’s not something you find everywhere, and that makes playing here unique—it helps me perform better, and with a smile. And the food… oh my, the food! Everything is delicious. This is the best tournament for a thousand reasons, and in Rome, everywhere you go is a wonder”.

Her bond with the city is also personal: for several years she has been in a relationship with Carolina Orsi, Italy’s top player, who was born and raised in Rome and is also competing this week. “With her, I’ve seen so much of the city, but there are still places I want to explore. Just the other day, Caro told me I absolutely must visit the Coppedè district. I can’t wait. And I want to return to the Vatican—I went years ago. Every time I come back here, I try to discover something new and learn more about this incredible and beautiful city”.

Naturally, the Rome Major is the tournament she looks forward to the most: “It’s special because the Foro Italico is like nowhere else. It’s special because I feel loved here. And it’s special because I won this tournament—it’s in my heart”. For Rome, she even makes an exception in terms of playing style: “I usually prefer indoor events, but this outdoor stop is essential. It must always be on the calendar”.

Now her focus returns to the competition and the fight for the top ranking—a battle she’s waging against current No.1s Paula Josemaria and Ari Sanchez. Gemma briefly reclaimed the top spot in May after winning the P2 in Asuncion, but her rivals took it back after their win in Buenos Aires. During the draw ceremony, Sanchez spoke of how inspiring the rivalry is. “She’s 100% right,” says Triay. “It’s like cyclists racing all the way to the final sprint. We always push ourselves to improve: if she plays well today, I have to play better”. Their rivalry has no negative impact on their relationship: “It’s a healthy rivalry. We’ve known each other for a long time. When I started playing padel in 2013, she was already playing, and we’ve both been chasing No.1 ever since. It’s great for padel and for us—it makes us better”.