One former Sunderland hero’s career has taken quite an unexpected turn as he opens up his own Padel court.
In the early 2010s, Sunderland endured a fairly successful period, which, despite flirting with relegation occasionally, still notched two successive decent campaigns under Steve Bruce, whilst also managing to reach the EFL Cup final against Man City.
In particular, Sunderland under Gus Poyet underwent a remarkable 2013/14 season as they completed the miracle escape from relegation after they finished the campaign in spectacular form.
That season under Poyet was kick-started following the win against Newcastle United, the first victory of the 2013/14 campaign, which was won by Fabio Borini’s late strike.
Fast-forward over 11 years since that pivotal goal in the landscape of Sunderland’s season, the Italian has ventured into a new sport in rather surprising fashion.
Former Sunderland star Fabio Borini plans to open Padel court in Salford
Despite still not being retired from professional football, as he currently plays for Sampdoria in Serie B, Borini has still ventured into a new sport, and that is Padel.
The former Sunderland hero, who notched a total of 93 appearances and scored 17 goals, has spoken about his plans to open a Padel court in Salford.
Speaking to Manchester Evening News about his plans, the former Sunderland man said: “Padel16 is about much more than just offering a fun, fast-paced sport. It’s about giving back to the community and rebuilding the club for the future,” said Borini, the driving force behind the project.
“By putting the money back into the club, we’re not only creating a new space for the community to enjoy, we’re also laying the foundation for its future.
“This is just the start – we have big plans to expand, evolve, and build an exciting hub for everyone in the area.”
Fabio Borini goal vs Newcastle United will always be remembered
As for Sunderland’s recent history, several big results against noisy-neighbours Newcastle United spring to mind, and Borini helped deliver a spectacular moment in the early stages of Poyet’s Black Cats reign.
Without that goal and win, Sunderland may not have necessarily been able to channel their momentum to record a brilliant escape by the end of the season, and could have been condemned to the Championship.
Borini’s Sunderland career may have ended rather sourly as he moved on to AC Milan, but when it comes to being a big moments player, the Italian certainly lived up to the billing.