Name: Marcos Del Pilar

Title: Global Padel Consultant & Professional Coaching

Organisation: Sports Management

MARCOS DEL PILAR “The Godfather of Padel in the USA” - Award-winning Global Padel Consultant, Speaker, and Master Teaching Professional.

Marcos del Pilar is a very successful serial entrepreneur and businessman as well as a Padel visionary and pioneer. He is an award-winning Global Padel Consultant, renowned speaker, and Master Teaching Professional. His determination, commitment, hard work, and powerful network have made Marcos one of the most influential and important figures in the development of Padel in the United States since 2017. His continuous successes and great advances for the sport in these 9 years have made him known as the Godfather of Padel in the United States.

He has also been recognized as #3 of the “Top 50 Most Influential Persons in the New Padel World” by international media. Among other great milestones, he is the Fmr. USPA President and key leader behind the first-ever Padel World Championship in the USA (2022) and proud Co-founder and Fmr. CEO & Commissioner of the worldwide known PRO PADEL LEAGUE. He is a key piece for some of the most important Venture capitalists and Investment Groups involved in Padel in the world and the cornerstone of most of the Padel projects in the United States.

His extensive and renowned experience in Management, Marketing, and Sales make him one of the most valued Padel Consultants all over the globe.

Del Pilar has a true vocation for coaching, and he runs one of the most important projects in Padel Education in America in partnership with the RSPA, with more than 800 coaches certified. Marcos has a clear vision to build a better world through Padel and Racquet Sports. With that in mind, he left his successful business in Europe to fully dedicate himself to his mission in life: to grow Padel in North America while creating opportunities for others.

He definitely has a very special talent to get the world inspired around him with his beginner’s mentality, disruption, creativity, and evolved business vision. He is a giver, and generosity runs through his veins. He is a true encourager, joy-spreader, speaker, team builder, and Padel business growth strategist who enjoys making people’s lives better with “the magic of Padel”.

SOME OF HIS ROLES AND ACHIEVEMENTS:

* Co-Founder & Fmr. CEO & Commissioner in PRO PADEL LEAGUE in North America.

* Fmr. President of the USPA (United States Padel Association).

Padel Consultant with the USTA (United States Tennis Association)

* Advisory Board Member for some of the world’s most exclusive Investment groups in the Sports Industry.

* Head of Padel Certification for the RSPA (Racquet Sports Professionals Association) with more than 800 Professionals certified.

* USPTA/ RSPA 2022 Professional of the Year for Central Florida award.

* UPSTA/ RSPA's 2024 Top Education Credit Earner award

* USPTA/ RSPA Master Professional recognition since 2023.

* Top #3 recognition as one of the “Top 50 Most Influential Persons in the New Padel World” by international media.

* RSPA Committee member MASTER PROFESSIONAL and MENTORING.

* USTA FL Committee member PARKS & RECREATION.

* TEAM USA Head Coach in PADEL WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS QATAR in 2021 and DUBAI in 2022.

* Key leader in bringing the first-time PADEL WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP in the USA with more than 600 players and 32 different National teams in Las Vegas, NV, as well as some International Padel Tournaments in the USA.

* Author of the online program PADEL MASTER Vol.1 with Adidas.

* Author of the best-seller “THE SECRET CODE OF PADEL: Business and life lessons on achieving the American dream with the fastest-growing sport in the world”.

* Director of Racquet Sports of University of Florida (endorsed by USTA, USPTA/ RSPA, and PTR)

* Speaker at different International Conferences and author publishing periodic articles in National Magazines. Very strong presence in Television, Radio, newspapers, and social media promoting the growth of Racquet Sports.

IG ACCOUNT: https://www.instagram.com/marcos.delpilar/ LINKEDIN ACCOUNT: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcos-del-pilar-padel/

Thank you to the 2,000 leaders who’ve generously done the 7 Questions on Leadership!

I hope Marcos's answers will encourage you in your leadership journey. Enjoy!

Cheers,

Jonno White

1. What have you found most challenging as a leader?

As a leader, one of the most challenging aspects is balancing vision with execution while staying true to your values and purpose.

Leadership often requires navigating complex challenges that test your resilience, adaptability, and emotional strength. For me, one of the greatest challenges has been managing the expectations of others while staying focused on the bigger picture.

When you’re building something as groundbreaking as the sport of Padel in a new market, you face multiple pressures:

1. Skepticism from those who don’t yet see the vision. It’s challenging to inspire belief in a dream others may not fully understand.

2. Balancing short-term needs with long-term goals. Sometimes, you must make difficult decisions, knowing they may not yield immediate results but are essential for sustainable growth.

3. Leading through adversity. Whether it’s overcoming resistance, securing resources, or facing unexpected setbacks, a leader’s true strength is revealed in moments of difficulty. Another challenge has been maintaining a personal connection with my mission while balancing the demands of leadership. It’s easy to get caught up in the operational details and forget the “why” behind it all. That’s why I make a conscious effort to reconnect with my purpose regularly: inspiring others through Padel and creating opportunities for people to grow.

Lastly, one of the most humbling challenges is accepting that you cannot do it all alone. Leadership is not about being the hero; it’s about empowering others to step into their greatness. Trusting your team, delegating effectively, and building a culture of collaboration are vital, but they can be difficult when you are deeply passionate about your vision.

The truth is, challenges are opportunities in disguise. Every obstacle has taught me something invaluable about resilience, courage, and adaptability. I’ve learned to embrace challenges as a part of the journey because they shape us into stronger, more compassionate leaders.

2. How did you become a leader? Can you please briefly tell the story?

My journey to leadership didn’t begin with a title or a position—it began with a purpose and a deep passion for Padel. I never set out to be a leader; I simply saw an opportunity to make a difference, and I couldn’t ignore it.

When I first encountered Padel, it wasn’t just a sport to me—it was a transformative experience. I saw how it brought people together, broke down barriers, and created joy. I knew it had the power to change lives, and I wanted to be part of that change.

The turning point came when I moved to the United States in 2017. At the time, Padel was virtually unknown here. It was a blank slate—a chance to build something extraordinary from the ground up. I left behind a successful career in Europe to follow what I believed was my calling: to grow Padel in North America.

The early years were challenging. There were moments of doubt and resistance from people who didn’t share my vision. But I focused on what I could control—connecting with people, sharing my passion, and creating opportunities for the sport to take root. I invested in building relationships, educating others, and organizing events that would showcase the magic of Padel.

Leadership found me when my efforts began to inspire others. People started to believe in the dream, and they wanted to be part of it. Over time, I realized that being a leader isn’t about commanding others—it’s about serving them. It’s about creating a vision that others can rally behind and empowering them to achieve it together.

Today, I’m proud to have played a role in bringing Padel to the forefront in the USA, but I remain a student of leadership. For me, leadership is a journey, not a destination. It’s about constantly learning, evolving, and finding new ways to create impact.

In this now mature stage of my career, I feel honored and humbled to spend time with the young generation. I enjoy my mission of inspiring, guiding, and leading them to new positions. I love my role of setting them up for success with the best education and advice for them to make a huge impact in the industry in the upcoming years.

But it was not always the same. For many years, I needed the support and guidance of others. I still do, indeed. I always needed a role model to follow. Someone that had already been there. Those executives are leading the industry, achieving new goals, and accomplishing the biggest milestones in their professional careers. I found several of them with one thing in common: they were part of a selective and very exclusive group where less than 200 people have been admitted: THE RSPA MASTER PROFESSIONALS. In 2023, I was honored to be included in this select group of leaders to continue my mission.

Ultimately, I became a leader by following my heart, staying true to my purpose, and being willing to take risks for what I believe in. Leadership is not something you are born with—it’s something you grow into through passion, perseverance, and service to others.

3. How do you structure your work days from waking up to going to sleep?

Even when I don't necessarily follow this structure every day, I would love to share what I consider a great structure for leadership positions.

Marcos is a work in progress, so I will continue to improve myself every day until I get there.

Leadership requires focus, discipline, and balance, so I suggest structuring our days with the intention of ensuring we stay productive, inspired, and connected to our purpose. Here's a glimpse of that daily routine: Morning: Setting the Tone for Success Wake-Up and Reflection (5:30 AM): I start my day early with a moment of gratitude. I reflect on what I’m thankful for and set my intentions for the day. This practice keeps me grounded and focused.

Physical Activity (6:00 AM): Whether it’s playing paddle, going for a run, or doing a gym workout, I prioritize movement every morning. It energizes my body and clears my mind, preparing me for the challenges ahead.

Healthy Breakfast and Reading (7:00 AM): A nutritious breakfast or sometimes simply a coffee fuels me for the day, and I dedicate time to reading or listening to something inspirational—whether it’s a book, an article, or a podcast. This keeps me learning and growing.

Planning the Day (7:30 AM): I review my calendar and prioritize tasks. I ask myself: What are the three most important things I must accomplish today? This clarity helps me focus on what matters most.

Workday: Creating Impact Morning Focus Block (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM): I tackle my most critical tasks and strategic work during this period when I’m most focused. This might include consulting sessions, working with my colleagues in current projects, preparing for events, or writing for my book.

Midday Break (12:00 PM - 1:00 PM): Lunch is a chance to recharge and connect with others. Whenever possible, I enjoy meals with colleagues, partners, or loved ones to foster relationships. I tend to make time for my wonderful girlfriend as a priority since we both enjoy spending some time together as well.

Afternoon Collaboration (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM): I dedicate this time to meetings, calls, and team collaboration. Whether it’s working with investors, supporting coaches, or planning events, I focus on building momentum for Padel.

Creative Time and Wrap-Up (5:00 PM - 6:00 PM): I reserve time for creative work—writing, brainstorming, or reflecting on long-term projects. Before finishing for the day, I review what I’ve accomplished and plan for tomorrow.

Evening: Recharging and Connecting Family and Personal Time (6:30 PM - 8:00 PM): I spend the evening with my girlfriend, friends, and family or doing something that brings me joy. This time is sacred—it reminds me why I do what I do.

Reflection, Learning, and Joy (8:30 PM - 9:30 PM): Sometimes, I use this time to watch movies, TV shows, or something enjoyable. Before bed, I reflect on the day: What went well? What can I improve tomorrow? I often read or journal during this time, capturing ideas and insights.

Wind-Down and Sleep (10:00 PM): A good night’s sleep is essential for sustained performance. I unplug from screens (not always), meditate, or listen to calming music before heading to bed.

This routine keeps me balanced, productive, and aligned with my purpose. Of course, every day brings unique demands, but having a structured framework helps me stay grounded no matter what.

4. What's a recent leadership lesson you've learned for the first time or been reminded of?

Leadership is an ever-evolving journey, constantly teaching us lessons through experiences, successes, and challenges. Recently, I was reminded of a lesson that I’ve always valued but saw with fresh eyes: the transformative power of adaptability and the courage to embrace change.

As a leaders, we often create detailed plans and strategies to reach our goals. These plans are essential—they give us direction and clarity. But life, business, and people rarely follow a script. Unexpected challenges arise, opportunities shift, and even the best-laid plans require adjustment. How we respond to these moments defines us as leaders.

The Lesson in Action A few months ago, I was deeply involved in a high-stakes Padel project with a group of visionary investors. The project had the potential to make a significant impact on the sport’s growth in the U.S. Everything seemed perfectly aligned—until an external factor disrupted our timeline and resources.

Initially, it felt like a setback. The team was frustrated, stakeholders were nervous, and there was a temptation to push forward with the original plan despite the clear obstacles. But as the leader, I knew this wasn’t the time for rigidity. Instead of panicking, I took a step back and reframed the situation:

What if this challenge was actually an opportunity to make something even better? What if we shifted our perspective and used this as a moment to innovate? By bringing the team together, listening to their ideas, and fostering an environment of collaboration, we were able to pivot our approach. We explored alternative solutions and ultimately developed a strategy that not only addressed the immediate problem but also strengthened the long-term viability of the project.

Key Takeaways from the Experience

1. Adaptability is Strength, Not Weakness. Being adaptable doesn’t mean you abandon your vision—it means you’re willing to adjust your methods to stay aligned with your ultimate goal. This experience reminded me that flexibility is not a sign of weakness but of wisdom. As leaders, we must be willing to pivot when necessary and embrace change as a natural part of progress.

For example, during the early days of promoting Padel in the U.S., I faced countless roadblocks: limited awareness of the sport, lack of infrastructure, and skepticism from decision-makers. Instead of pushing against the resistance, I adapted. I focused on education and relationship-building, creating a foundation of trust that allowed the sport to grow organically.

2. Every Challenge Hides an Opportunity When faced with adversity, it’s easy to see only the problem. But I’ve learned that challenges often reveal hidden opportunities if we approach them with curiosity and optimism. In this recent project, the delay gave us the chance to reconsider aspects of the plan we hadn’t previously questioned. By doing so, we uncovered innovative ideas that made the final outcome even more impactful.

A similar example happened when organizing the first-ever Padel World Championship in the USA. There were logistical hurdles and unexpected changes along the way, but each challenge forced us to think creatively. The event became a groundbreaking success because we didn’t shy away from the obstacles—instead, we used them to build something extraordinary.

3. The Leader Sets the Tone: In moments of uncertainty, the leader’s mindset has a ripple effect. If the leader remains calm, optimistic, and solution-focused, it inspires the team to do the same. Conversely, panic or frustration can derail morale and productivity. During the recent project, I made it a point to communicate openly and frequently with the team. I acknowledged the challenges but emphasized our shared ability to find a solution. This approach kept everyone motivated and aligned, even in the face of uncertainty.

4. Listening is Leadership One of the greatest lessons I’ve learned as a leader is the importance of listening. In this situation, I didn’t have all the answers—and I didn’t need to. By creating space for the team to share their ideas and perspectives, we found solutions that no single person could have discovered alone.

This applies to any leadership role, whether it’s in business, sports, or life. When we listen, we empower others to contribute their unique strengths, fostering a culture of collaboration and trust.

A Universal Lesson for All Leaders This recent experience reinforced a universal truth: Leadership is not about control—it’s about growth. It’s about growing yourself, your team, and the vision you’re working toward. Challenges are not roadblocks; they’re invitations to evolve.

Think about it: some of the greatest achievements in history were born out of adversity. Whether it’s a business breakthrough, a personal triumph, or a transformative social movement, every success story has moments where the original plan fell apart. The leaders who rise in those moments are the ones who embrace change, adapt, and move forward with courage and creativity.

An Inspirational Closing Thought As leaders, we don’t have to fear change or challenges. Instead, we can see them as opportunities to redefine what’s possible. Leadership is about having the strength to adapt, the vision to see potential in every situation, and the courage to inspire others to keep moving forward.

The recent lesson I’ve learned is one I will carry with me: Every obstacle is a stepping stone, every challenge a chance to grow, and every change an opportunity to lead with purpose.

5. What's one book that has had a profound impact on your leadership so

far? Can you please briefly tell the story of how that book impacted your leadership?

The one I am writing is The Secret Code of Padel Business and Life Lessons on Achieving the American Dream with the Fastest-Growing Sport in the World.

6. If you could only give one piece of advice to a young leader, what would you say to them?

I would love to encourage and help all professionals (especially the young generations) to develop themselves and build their educational pathways to achieve different goals and new designations. I have a strong belief that we can make a better world with Racquet Sports, and for that to happen, we will need to bring in more and more leaders to the equation. That is my main goal now, and here is my statement to lead, mentor, and help others to succeed.

Elevating our education standards is a common benefit, and I have experienced a huge impact on my professional life after improving my education and following the RSPA steps towards this highest recognition that I would love others to enjoy and experience. I have a true vocation for coaching, and that is why I stay involved with the RSPA in one the most important projects in Padel Education in America, with more than 800 coaches certified.

That is part of my legacy. Mi mission, my life.

My own development and the impact of my education on my career I see myself as a very ordinary guy. What makes me special is my determination, commitment, hard work, and powerful networking built after so many years of dedication to my passion. All this has been built under the umbrella of my continuous beginner’s mentality and my eagerness to keep learning every day.

I’m usually described in international media as a very successful serial entrepreneur, businessman, visionary, and Padel pioneer. They say that I became one of the most influential and important figures in the development of Padel in the United States since 2017. Also, my continuous successes and great advances for the sport in these 8 years have made me known as the Godfather of Padel in the United States. I don’t really know if I deserve all those compliments. I only focus on results, inspiration, and getting the job done. While developing myself and improving my education, I was inspired by some RSPA Master Professionals, and they became my North Star.

It is true that I achieved some important milestones, but I also know that all these mentors have a piece of every single result I had. From here, I would love to publicly appreciate all of them for their continuous inspiration and for keeping me on the right track to stay focused and achieve my goals. Among other great milestones, I was lucky enough to be behind the first-ever Padel World Championship in the USA (2022), and I am a proud Co-founder and Fmr. CEO & Commissioner of the worldwide known PRO PADEL LEAGUE.

I also work with some of the most important Venture capitalists and Investment Groups involved in Padel in the world, and, above all this, my mentors and colleagues helped me to build myself as a great human being. I am and will always be grateful to all the people who have been by my side on this journey. Because of them and their insights, I am who I am. I learn from them every day and share their extensive and renowned experience in Leadership, Management, Marketing and Sales, and Education that I use in my role as Padel Consultant all over the globe.

My mission and how to help others to succeed: I have a clear vision to build a better world through Padel and Racquet Sports. With that in mind, I am fully dedicated to my mission in life: to grow Padel in North America while creating opportunities for others. I am a giver and generosity runs through my veins. I am a true encourager, joy-spreader, speaker, team builder, and Padel business growth strategist who enjoys making people’s lives better with “the magic of Padel”.

Now it is my time to give back to the Racquet community and Padel enthusiasts. I really want to use my special talent to get the world inspired with my beginner’s mentality, disruption, creativity, and evolved business vision. I would love to help raise the level of our Industry and push all of us up to new heights in our own personal and professional development.

I am highly motivated to bring more players to the community to grow our Racquet sports by adding excitement and memorable emotions to the audience. If we understand our customers’ needs, we will be able to engage them since we will be offering what they are expecting. We need to become customer-centric organizations and pivot and swing according to these new environments we are living in.

We need to embrace everyone in this new era of empathy to really connect with the big masses. In terms of strategy, we really need to adapt to the changes and focus on creating value in our proposals in front of other substitute services (i.e., Gaming, Netflix, other sports, children in the streets) to finally attract more players to our games. We need to create a reason for millennials, wheelchair athletes, African Americans, Asian Americans, Hispanics, Native Americans, and the LGBT community to join us. After that, we want to take care of them, and finally, we need to encourage them to refer and prescribe us. We need to teach them to think differently. Recover emotion and desire and generate an attractive and fascinating FUTURE for them. Generate emotion for a better future that can be pushed from Racquet Sports for sure.

Thanks a lot to everyone who helps me on this amazing journey. My most sincere appreciation from the deepest of my heart. Please let me say something inspiring before I leave… Let’s have fun, enjoy the game, attract more and more players, and above all this… LET’S MAKE A BETTER WORLD THROUGH PADEL AND RACQUET SPORTS!! LET'S MAKE HISTORY TOGETHER!

7. What is one meaningful story that comes to mind from your time as a leader, so far? Leadership is about more than managing projects or achieving goals—it’s about creating a legacy that inspires others, builds community, and leaves the world a little better. Two pivotal moments in my journey capture this essence: organizing the first-ever Padel World Championship in the United States and writing my book, The Secret Code of Padel: Business and Life Lessons on Achieving the American Dream with the Fastest-Growing Sport in the World.”

Both experiences are milestones in my career, but more importantly, they are stories of resilience, vision, and the transformative power of leadership.

The Padel World Championship: Turning Vision into Reality When the opportunity arose to host the Padel World Championship in Las Vegas in 2022, it was a dream come true—but one fraught with challenges. This wasn’t just an event; it was a statement. It was about showing the world that Padel had arrived in the U.S. and could thrive here.

Bringing together 600 players from 32 nations was an enormous logistical challenge. We had to navigate everything from travel coordination and venue preparation to securing sponsorships and building excitement for a sport that was still relatively new in North America.

The Challenges: One moment stands out: just weeks before the event, a major sponsor withdrew, threatening critical aspects of the tournament. The pressure was immense, and doubts crept in. But instead of giving in to fear, my team and I focused on solutions. We reached out to new partners, restructured our plans, and found innovative ways to move forward.

The Outcome: When the championship finally began, the atmosphere was electric. Watching the players march out with their national flags, I felt an overwhelming sense of pride. This wasn’t just about competition—it was about connection, unity, and the power of a shared vision.

The event sparked a surge of interest in Padel across the U.S., creating a ripple effect that continues to this day. It proved that with determination, collaboration, and belief in a higher purpose, even the most ambitious dreams can be realized.

Leadership Lessons from the Championship: Inspire Through Purpose: When people align with a shared vision, they become unstoppable. Resilience is Key: Challenges don’t define you; your response does. Staying optimistic and solution-oriented turns setbacks into opportunities. Leadership is Service: The success of this event was the result of countless individuals giving their best. My role was to empower, encourage, and lead them toward our goal.

Writing “The Secret Code of Padel”: Reflecting on Leadership and Legacy If organizing the championship was about action, writing my book was about reflection. “The Secret Code of Padel” became a way to distill years of experience, lessons, and stories into a message that could inspire others—not just in sports but in life and business.

The Inspiration: The book was born from countless conversations with players, investors, and colleagues who wanted to know: How did you succeed in a new and competitive market? What lessons can we apply to our own journeys? How does Padel reflect larger truths about life and leadership?

I realized that the answers went beyond Padel. They were about perseverance, adaptability, teamwork, and the courage to dream big—universal principles that anyone can use to create their own success story.

Vulnerability and Leadership: Writing this book required me to share deeply personal stories, including moments of failure and doubt. For example, I wrote about leaving behind a successful business in Europe to fully dedicate myself to growing Padel in North America—a risky decision that many questioned.

At the time, I had no guarantees of success, but I believed in the sport’s potential and trusted my ability to build something meaningful. That leap of faith taught me that leadership often means stepping into the unknown, guided only by vision and conviction. The Ripple Effect: Even before its release, the book has sparked conversations, inspired aspiring leaders, and deepened people’s understanding of what it takes to turn passion into impact.

Other Meaningful Stories of Leadership

1. Empowering Coaches: One of my proudest achievements is partnering with the Racquet Sports Professionals Association (RSPA) to certify over 800 Padel coaches. This wasn’t just about training individuals—it was about building a movement.

Each coach represents a ripple in the larger wave of Padel’s growth. Watching these professionals introduce Padel to new communities has been deeply fulfilling.

Lesson: Leadership is about multiplication, not addition. By empowering others, you create a legacy far greater than what you could achieve alone.

2. Transforming a Player’s Life: I worked with a young player who struggled with self-confidence and felt out of place among more experienced athletes. Through patience, encouragement, and structured training, I watched him transform—not just as a player but as a person.

Seeing him represent his country and play on the international stage was one of the most rewarding moments of my career. Lesson: Leadership is about believing in others before they believe in themselves.

A Common Thread: Building a Better World Through Padel Whether organizing a championship, writing a book, or coaching a player, my mission is clear: to use Padel as a platform for connection, growth, and inspiration. The sport is a metaphor for life—a space where people can overcome challenges, build relationships, and discover their potential.

Final Reflection: The Magic of Leadership Leadership is about planting seeds of impact that grow far beyond your immediate reach. It’s about creating opportunities for others to succeed, whether by hosting a historic event, writing a book that sparks transformation, or mentoring individuals to achieve greatness.

The most meaningful stories of my leadership journey remind me that success isn’t about personal achievements—it’s about the lives you touch, the communities you build, and the legacy you leave behind.