Eugenie Bouchard Steps Up for Pickleball Slam 3: Tennis legends Andre Agassi and Steffi Graf are set to defend their title at Pickleball Slam 3, facing off against Eugenie Bouchard and Andy Roddick on February 16, 2025, at the Michelob ULTRA Arena in Las Vegas. With a $1 million prize at stake, the event promises high-stakes action and lighthearted banter.
Heated Banter Fuels Anticipation for the Slam
The festive season has sparked competitive exchanges between the rivals. Bouchard playfully wished her opponents “season’s beatings,” showing her readiness for the showdown. Agassi and Graf responded with a warning, quoting, “Winter is coming,” referencing their determination to retain their crown.
Roddick joined the fray with cheeky suggestions for team names targeting the tennis power couple. Agassi and Graf, in turn, dubbed their opponents “the enemy,” further fueling the playful rivalry.
Bouchard’s Transition to Pickleball Draws Praise
Bouchard’s move from tennis to pickleball has drawn admiration from her opponents. Graf acknowledged the difficulty of switching sports, noting Bouchard’s skill in adapting to doubles and mixed formats.
“The leap from tennis to pickleball is not an easy one,” ( Steffi Graf),
emphasizing the unique challenges involved. Agassi added his praise, commending Bouchard for her courage and growth in the fast-evolving sport.
“She’s been playing well this year, and that speaks volumes about her dedication,” he remarked. (Andre Agassi)
Bouchard, embracing the banter, humorously called Agassi “scared” and joked about second-guessing her competitive mindset due to their kindness.
Defending Champions Aim for Back-to-Back Victories
Agassi and Graf will enter Pickleball Slam 3 as defending champions, having defeated John McEnroe and Maria Sharapova in the previous edition. The iconic pair’s chemistry and experience make them formidable opponents, but the fresh pairing of Bouchard and Roddick brings unpredictability to the court.
The $1 million prize and the growing popularity of pickleball have raised the stakes, making this event one of the sport’s most anticipated.
The Rise of Pickleball and Its Global Impact
Pickleball Slam 3 underscores the sport’s explosive growth, attracting top-tier athletes and audiences worldwide. With its blend of tennis and table tennis elements, pickleball continues to gain traction among younger and older players alike.
As the Slam approaches, fans eagerly await whether Agassi and Graf can defend their title or if Bouchard and Roddick will upset the reigning champions. The outcome could further cement pickleball’s place as a premier competitive sport.
News in Brief: Eugenie Bouchard Steps Up for Pickleball Slam 3
Tennis icons Andre Agassi and Steffi Graf will defend their title at Pickleball Slam 3 against Eugenie Bouchard and Andy Roddick on February 16, 2025, at Michelob ULTRA Arena, Las Vegas. With $1 million at stake, the event combines high-stakes action and playful banter. Bouchard’s praised transition to pickleball adds intrigue, while Agassi and Graf aim for back-to-back victories. The Slam highlights pickleball’s rapid growth and its appeal to global audiences.