Vinícius Júnior Pays Tribute to Padel Star with New Celebration in Real Madrid Winner
MADRID – Vinícius Júnior unveiled a new goal celebration in Real Madrid’s 2-1 comeback victory over Mallorca on Saturday, dedicating his match-winning strike to professional padel player and friend Juan Lebrón.
The Brazilian forward was the hero for a sold-out Santiago Bernabéu, breaking a 1-1 deadlock in the 38th minute with a moment of individual brilliance. After completing his usual celebration with teammates, Vinícius Júnior mimed a padel racket swing, a gesture that initially puzzled viewers.
The meaning behind the move became clear post-match when the winger took to social media. On Instagram, he posted, “Un poco de padel en Bernabéu” (“A little padel at the Bernabéu”), alongside a photo of his celebration. Lebrón, a renowned Spanish padel player and known Real Madrid fan who was in attendance, responded, “El mejor” (“The best”).
The goal itself was significant, securing three points that maintain Real Madrid’s perfect start to the La Liga season under new manager Xabi Alonso. Alonso praised his star winger’s performance after the game, stating, “I’m happy with Vini’s game. He’s scoring goals and that’s important.”
The celebration also highlights a strong start to the campaign for Vinícius Júnior, who is looking to rebound from a relatively underwhelming 2024-25 league season where he scored 11 goals. Under Alonso, he has already contributed directly to three of the team’s six goals (two goals, one assist) in the first three fixtures, signaling a return to decisive form.