In this interview: Emilio Sánchez Vicario talks about his tennis academies and much more

Big names are often behind tennis academies. This is also true of the Emilio Sánchez Tennis Academy, named after Emilio Sánchez Vicario, one of Spain's most successful tennis professionals. His academies in Barcelona, ​​Naples/Florida, and Dubai are among the most prestigious for young tennis talents. But the academies, with their diverse training programs, are equally attractive to recreational players of all ages. And that's precisely what Emilio emphasizes. He demands discipline and commitment from all participants and, thanks to a specially developed training method, ensures that all players achieve maximum progress, whether on the tennis or padel court. In this interview, we spoke with Emilio about his academies, his training philosophy, and his goals. He also reveals why he now lives in Florida, where he likes to vacation, and where he's eager to travel.

 Emilio, when did you found the academy in Barcelona? When were the academies in Naples, Florida, and Dubai added?

The Barcelona academy was founded in November 1998. It began as a very small project, almost like a dream, and has evolved over the years into what it is today: a place where players from all over the world train, learn, and develop both on and off the field. When were the academies in Naples, Florida, and Dubai established? Naples was actually a long journey. We became partners between 2008 and 2010. Then, in August 2012, we took full ownership and have since built the academy into a strong base in the United States.

Dubai is a more recent project; we started there in 2023. Currently, the project is on hold as we search for a new location that can support our long-term vision. But the idea and the motivation to have a presence in the Middle East remain very strong.

 What is your goal with the academies?

Our mission has always been to create opportunities through tennis, education, and life. Tennis is the means, but the real goal is to help people develop themselves. We want to give tennis players the opportunity to use this sport as a tool to improve their lives, whether they later become professionals, pursue higher education, or simply develop the discipline and self-confidence that tennis instills.

 Can you explain your unique Emilio Sánchez Academy 360 Tennis® system in more detail?

The ESA360® system is essentially a comprehensive methodology that unites all pillars of player development: technique, tactics, physical conditioning, and mental strength. It is the result of years of training experience, continuous learning, and ongoing refinement. We consider the entire development pyramid and demonstrate how footwork is applied at each stage. Footwork is the foundation for everything we teach. When the feet are functioning well, everything else follows naturally. We also place great emphasis on targeted passing drills, the patterns of which players can then directly apply to matches. It is a highly structured yet practical system.

 Who is it suitable for, what are its characteristics, and how does everyone benefit from it?

The beauty of this system is that it works for everyone: coaches, juniors, professionals, and even adults. Anyone who improves their footwork automatically improves their technique. And through numerous high-quality repetitions, players develop habits they can apply in games without having to think about it. This builds confidence: from preparation, repetition, and clarity.

 It's not just ambitious young people who train at your club. What can adults, families, and tennis groups expect from you?

Our academies welcome everyone who wants to make tennis a part of their journey, not just young athletes. Adults enjoy training like the pros and seeing real progress, parents learn how our system works and how they can support their children, and families appreciate that everyone can complete a program that suits their level. Our facilities make it easy to combine different activities: tennis lessons for children and adults, fitness, mental training, and now padel, which has become a great addition for groups and families. Whether you come alone or with a group, you can look forward to a professional, fun, and comprehensive tennis and padel experience.

 You live in Naples, Florida, and manage the academy there. What is it about tennis in Florida that appeals to you personally, and why do you enjoy living there?

Florida is truly a special place for tennis. The weather is great year-round, making it one of the best training locations in the world. But beyond the weather, there's a very special energy here. People come to Florida to enjoy life, relax, and spend time outdoors. This creates a very positive atmosphere. It's called paradise, and honestly, it really feels like it. For me personally, living in Naples has been incredibly enriching for my family. I'm very grateful for that opportunity. And then, of course, we have so many adults and players who visit us from Europe. They fall in love with this place immediately. Every year, we bring groups from Italy to the Miami Open, and the number is constantly growing because once they've been here, they always want to come back.

 Is there an absolute favorite spot where you've played tennis so far, and perhaps also vacationed there?

The funny thing is, tennis itself never changes; the courts are the same size all over the world. But we tennis players are lucky because the tour always takes us to places with good weather and beautiful surroundings. I have to start with Naples. It's an incredible place, and our club is state-of-the-art, so I'm always recommending it. But there are so many beautiful tennis cities: Barcelona, ​​Monte Carlo, Kitzbühel, Gstaad... We're truly fortunate to be able to play in such fantastic locations.

 Where would you like to return to? Is there a particular destination or event on your bucket list?

I've played a lot in the past! But when I look at the tournaments, there's something really special about the European events; they reflect the culture, the lifestyle, and the people. You can really feel the differences between the countries, and I always love going back. As for my bucket list, I have a few dream destinations that aren't even related to tennis: the Himalayas, Nepal, Japan, Easter Island, Patagonia... places that are far away and full of mystery. I don't know how much tennis is played there, but they appeal to me. Every summer, we also take a family trip. We rent a van with the kids and just hit the road, exploring from city to city. In the last three years, we've been to Galicia and Castile in Spain, Poland from north to south, and the east coast of Sicily, Syracuse, Mount Etna—just about everywhere. This year, we're hoping for Denmark and Norway, but we'll see. There are still so many places to discover.

Brief biography of Emilio Sánchez