Tennis Legends Collide in Las Vegas: The Pickleball Slam 2025 is set to return on February 16 at the Michelob Ultra Arena in Las Vegas. Andy Roddick, the 2003 US Open champion, will replace John McEnroe and pair up with Eugenie Bouchard to face off against Steffi Graf and Andre Agassi in this much-anticipated matchup.
Pickleball Slam’s Legacy and Exciting Matchups
The Pickleball Slam has gained popularity since its debut in 2023. The inaugural edition saw Agassi and Roddick triumph over McEnroe and Michael Chang. The second Slam in February 2024 featured Agassi teaming with his wife, Steffi Graf, to defeat McEnroe and Maria Sharapova.
For the 2025 Slam, fans are eager to see Roddick join forces with Bouchard, a player known for her tennis prowess and recent ventures into pickleball. Meanwhile, Graf and Agassi have solidified their presence as mainstays in this unique event, promising a thrilling competition.
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Roddick’s Concerns and Graf’s Warning
Ahead of the Slam, Roddick expressed concerns about his performance, highlighting the pressure of meeting expectations.
“I worry the most about myself on the court. Like, I’ve literally played with a pro. We have to win; otherwise…it’s on me. It’s very squarely on my shoulders. Genie, I hope I live up to the very tiny expectations you have for my pickleball ability,” (Andy Roddick).
Adding to the excitement, Graf and Agassi issued a playful warning to Roddick in November 2024, signaling their readiness to compete. The friendly rivalry has heightened anticipation for the event.
Eugenie Bouchard’s Dual Focus
Bouchard’s presence in the Slam brings an intriguing narrative. Once a rising star in tennis with a deep run at Wimbledon, she has shifted focus between tennis and pickleball. Her partnership with Roddick adds an exciting dynamic to the competition.
Fans are eager to witness how these athletes, transitioning from tennis to pickleball, adapt to the smaller court and unique rules of the sport. The Pickleball Slam continues to bridge the gap between traditional and emerging racquet sports, drawing fans and players alike to its exciting format.
News in Brief: Tennis Legends Collide in Las Vegas
The Pickleball Slam 2025 returns on February 16 at Las Vegas’ Michelob Ultra Arena. Andy Roddick and Eugenie Bouchard will face Steffi Graf and Andre Agassi in a thrilling showdown. With playful rivalries and tennis stars transitioning to pickleball, the Slam promises excitement as it bridges traditional and emerging racquet sports, captivating fans worldwide.
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