Besim Shulemaja
President – Kosovo Padel Federation
Besim Shulemaja is a sport leader and entrepreneur with over a decade of experience in the development of padel. He is the founder of the Kosovo Padel Federation and a key figure in introducing and establishing padel in Kosovo, including his direct involvement in the development of the country’s first padel courts and the launch of multiple padel clubs nationwide.
Since 2021, he has led the creation of Kosovo’s national padel structure, overseeing federation governance, club development, licensing systems, national team programs, and international representation. Under his leadership, the Federation has achieved full recognition and membership within the Kosovo Olympic Committee, the European Padel Federation, and the International Padel Federation (FIP).
With strong international networks, particularly in Sweden and across Europe, Mr. Shulemaja has actively contributed to padel development initiatives, international congresses, and strategic partnerships. In addition to his leadership role, he remains actively involved in the sport as a player, promoter, and supporter of youth development. Prior to his work in padel, he had a professional football career, competing in top leagues in Sweden and Germany, and contributed to his country’s sport even earlier by playing in the Kosovo Football Super League.
He holds an MBA with a focus on strategic leadership and business management, along with academic qualifications in project management and economics.