**Andre Agassi Makes Pickleball Debut, Embraces New Sport**
Former tennis champion Andre Agassi has stepped onto a different court, making his professional pickleball debut at the U.S. Open Pickleball Championships last month. Partnering with 18-year-old Anna Leigh Waters, the world’s top-ranked female player, Agassi participated in a mixed tournament, winning his first match before losing in the second round. After years of casual play, he has become captivated by the sport.
In a recent interview, Agassi expressed his enthusiasm for pickleball, stating, “Dude, I’m not just liking it, I’m loving it. … It’s an anomaly to see any support ever at this kind of pace, but it’s easy to see why.” He highlighted how the sport fosters connections across generations and cultures, making it accessible and enjoyable for everyone. “My family was looking for things to do, and watching how it brings people together… it’s challenging at every level,” he added.
Agassi also discovered the Netflix documentary “Dreambreaker: A Pickleball Story,” directed by Ashley Underwood, who shares his newfound passion for the game. Underwood, who previously played tennis, began her pickleball journey during the COVID-19 pandemic and was amazed by the professional level of play she witnessed at a major league tournament. “I saw that this was the birth of a professional sport,” she remarked.
Despite his extensive tennis background, Agassi acknowledges the challenges of transitioning to pickleball. “It’s really hard. These guys are so specialized, it’s so sensitive, such little margin for error,” he explained. He noted the nuances of the game that require a different approach than traditional tennis, emphasizing the need to adapt his skills. “There was a lot I had to unlearn, but some things came instinctively,” he said.
As pickleball continues to grow in popularity, a report indicated that nearly 20 million people participated in the sport in 2024, marking a staggering 311% increase since 2011. Agassi’s journey into pickleball not only showcases his adaptability as an athlete but also highlights the sport’s rising prominence in the athletic community.
**FAQ**
**Q: What is pickleball?**
A: Pickleball is a paddle sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, played on a smaller court with a lightweight ball. It is known for its accessibility and appeal to players of all ages and skill levels.