Yesterday, the Young M&A Community gathered at the padel courts of GARRINCHA Pegasus Diegem for one of the most energetic and exciting events of the year: the Young M&A Community Padel Tournament. And what a day it was!
Completely sold out weeks in advance, the tournament brought together young professionals from across the Belgian M&A ecosystem for an afternoon filled with competition, networking, fun and great atmosphere. The demand was so high that only additional supporters could still register to attend.
Despite the showers, more than 100 players made their way to the registration desk, where, to the beats of the Jurimesh DJ, they could collect a T-shirt, sweatbands, a drinking cup, and their name badge.
The players’ warm-up routines proved to be remarkably diverse. While some immediately headed to a court to get into the rhythm of the game, others first found their way to the open bar to gather a bit of courage for the battles ahead.
The event kicked off with a warm welcome by Melle Eijckelhoff, founder of the M&A Community Belgium, who emphasized the importance of building meaningful relationships in M&A, not only through business conversations, but also through shared experiences, energy and fun. After the game masters explained the rules and regulations, 55 duos, ranging from beginners to experienced players, grabbed their rackets and made their way to the indoor and outdoor padel courts.
From the very first matches, the courts were buzzing with excitement. Teams battled it out in a series of highly competitive games, while participants and supporters connected alongside the courts in a relaxed and informal atmosphere. Despite the rainy weather, several brave padel duo’s embraced the challenge and continued battling it out on the outdoor courts.
Throughout the afternoon and evening, the tournament proved once again why the Young M&A Community has become such a strong platform for the next generation of dealmakers.
One of the highlights of the day was seeing so many new faces joining the event. As a members-only event, the tournament also welcomed 30 guest members who received a first taste of the Young M&A Community and the unique atmosphere that defines it.
After an intense afternoon of padel, the day concluded with drinks, a BBQ, snacks, and plenty of networking opportunities. The winning teams, who, of course, earned eternal bragging rights within the community, were presented with their trophies by principal sponsor Ansarada and sponsors Alvarez & Marsal and Jurimesh, whose fantastic support helped make the event such a success.
Third place, also known as the Audience Award, was awarded to the dynamic duo Sébastien Massaro and Markus Fort of Tiberghien Lawyers. They received their prize from sponsor Jurimesh.
Second place was more than deservedly claimed by Chiel Ceulemans and Kevin Lindekens of LDS Advisory, who managed to score the highest number of points in the beginners league. Their trophy was presented by Joeri Snijers, Managing Director at Alvarez & Marsal, one of the tournament sponsors.
The champions of the Young M&A Padel Tournament 2026 were Florian Verhaeghe and Liam Ducheyne from Deloitte, who convincingly won the final in the advanced league. They received the trophy from Christelle Mindombe, Customer Success Manager at principal sponsor Ansarada.
If this edition proved one thing, it is that the Young M&A Community Padel Tournament has become much more than a sports event. It is where the next generation of M&A professionals comes together to connect, compete and build relationships that will last throughout their careers.
And judging by the atmosphere yesterday, next year’s edition may sell out even faster.
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