Athena Padel Cup Brings an International Celebration of Women’s Padel to Miami

What started as a dream two years ago became an international celebration of women's padel in Miami, as the inaugural Athena Padel Cup brought together players from the United States, United Kingdom and Mexico for four days of competition, connection and unforgettable experiences.Above: Andi Neugarten-Maio

Founded by Andi Neugarten-Maio, creator of 6 Love Sports, the Athena Padel Cup was designed to offer something beyond a traditional tournament, combining competitive padel with the social experiences and international friendships that have become central to the sport's growing appeal.

“Two years ago, I had a dream of creating an international event that would bring women together through padel in a way that hadn’t been done before,” Neugarten-Maio said. “I wanted something that went beyond competition, where every player felt valued, celebrated, and part of something special.”The festivities began in style with a VIP White Party at Padel X on Lincoln Road in Miami Beach, where players, organizers, partners and guests gathered to celebrate the inaugural event. The evening set the tone for a week that would bring together international competition, Miami hospitality and a shared passion for padel.

Throughout the event, players enjoyed experiences extending well beyond the court, including a welcome dinner, gifts, wellness activities, a boat cruise and a closing celebration. Each detail reflected Neugarten-Maio's ambition to make the athletes feel as celebrated as the competition itself.“For me, the Athena Padel Cup was never just about winning matches. It was about creating an experience,” she explained. “I wanted the women to arrive as competitors and leave as friends.”

That sense of community became one of the event's defining characteristics. Despite Miami's intense heat and lengthy matches, players continued gathering at the club throughout the day, cheering on competitors and enjoying each other's company.“They were cheering, laughing, watching matches, and supporting each other,” Neugarten-Maio recalled. “That atmosphere is impossible to manufacture. It comes from the incredible community of women we have built around this sport.”

For Neugarten-Maio, the tournament represented another milestone in the community she has cultivated through 6 Love Sports, extending its reach beyond South Florida and bringing women from different countries together through their love of the game.“Through 6 Love Sports, I’ve seen firsthand how powerful women’s padel can be in connecting people,” she said. “We’re building much more than leagues and tournaments. We’re creating friendships, opportunities, and a community that reaches far beyond Miami.”

With its inaugural edition complete, the Athena Padel Cup is already looking toward a bigger international stage.

Neugarten-Maio confirmed the tournament will return October 12–15, 2027, expanding to eight international teams. Interest has already emerged from countries that were not represented in this year's competition.“My goal is to make the Athena Padel Cup an annual event that women around the world aspire to be part of,” she said. “We created something very special in Miami this October, and I truly believe we’re only just beginning.”

For a tournament built around bringing women together, Miami proved a fitting place to start. Next October, the Athena Padel Cup plans to welcome even more of the world.

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By Florida Tennis Associate Editor, Alex Binstok. Photo credits: Kat Nassapour

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