Tennis legend Andre Agassi is set to make his professional pickleball debut next week, joining forces with world No.1 Anna Leigh Waters in the mixed doubles category at the U.S. Open Pickleball Championships. Agassi, 54, will take to the court for his first match on April 30, 2025, marking a significant moment in his post-tennis career. Waters, an 18-year-old star and the top-ranked player in the Professional Pickleball Association, suggested the partnership after watching Agassi play on YouTube.
"She’s probably sick of winning so much, and that’s why she called me and asked me to play," Agassi joked during an interview with CNBC. This playful comment reflects Agassi's humility and sense of humor as he steps into a new arena that has captivated millions across the United States.
Pickleball, a dynamic paddle sport blending elements of tennis and badminton, was invented in 1965 by a group of American friends seeking to entertain their children. The sport has gained immense popularity, with approximately 13 million players in the U.S. as of 2023, according to Statista. Its appeal lies in its social and inclusive nature, which Agassi has embraced as a spokesperson and endorser for Joola, a company specializing in pickleball gear.
The U.S. Open Pickleball Championships will take place in Naples, Florida, from April 26 to May 3, 2025. This event promises to be a thrilling showcase of talent as players from across the nation compete for glory. Waters, who was projected to earn over $3 million last year as a professional pickleball player, is eager to partner with Agassi, viewing this collaboration as a unique opportunity to promote the sport.
"Andre’s goals are to grow the sport of pickleball, and that’s a huge goal of mine," Waters stated, emphasizing the importance of their partnership in enhancing the sport's visibility. The mixed doubles event will not only feature Agassi's return to competitive play but also highlight the rising star power of Waters, who currently dominates the rankings in singles, doubles, and mixed doubles.
Agassi's decision to transition into pickleball comes at a time when the sport is experiencing unprecedented growth. The former tennis world No. 1, known for his eight Grand Slam singles titles, has expressed admiration for pickleball's community spirit and accessibility. He remarked, "If I had the luxury of bandwidth to focus all my energy on just playing and body recovery and all that stuff, that would be a joy. But I don’t. I’m in a different season now." This statement reflects Agassi's understanding of his current life stage, balancing various commitments while still finding time to engage in competitive sports.
As the U.S. Open approaches, excitement is building among fans and players alike. Agassi's participation is particularly noteworthy, as it bridges the world of traditional tennis with the rapidly evolving landscape of pickleball. His experience and celebrity status are likely to draw attention to the championships, potentially inspiring a new wave of players to take up the sport.
In addition to competing, Agassi will also serve as a studio analyst for TNT Sports during the semi-finals and finals of the French Open, showcasing his continued involvement in the tennis community. This dual role allows him to remain connected to his roots while exploring new opportunities in the world of pickleball.
The U.S. Open Pickleball Championships are expected to attract significant media coverage, especially with Agassi's debut on the horizon. Fans are eager to see how the former tennis star adapts to the nuances of pickleball, a sport that requires different skills and strategies than those he honed during his illustrious tennis career.
As Agassi prepares for his first professional match in pickleball, the anticipation is palpable. Will he bring his competitive spirit and finesse to this new challenge? Or will he find himself outmatched by the younger, highly skilled Waters? Regardless of the outcome, Agassi's venture into pickleball is a testament to the sport's growing appeal and the endless possibilities that exist within the realm of athletics.
With the U.S. Open set to kick off this weekend, pickleball enthusiasts and sports fans alike are gearing up for what promises to be an exciting event. Agassi's journey into this vibrant community is sure to create buzz and inspire many, as he continues to champion the sport and its values. The intersection of his legacy in tennis and the emerging world of pickleball will undoubtedly make for a memorable experience both on and off the court.
As the tournament unfolds, all eyes will be on Agassi and Waters as they take center stage. Their partnership not only highlights the camaraderie within the pickleball community but also serves as a reminder of how sports can transcend generational gaps, bringing together players and fans from all walks of life.
Stay tuned as we follow Agassi's adventure in pickleball, a sport that continues to grow and thrive, capturing the hearts of millions across the nation.
