Steffi Graf Praises Eugenie Bouchard: As Pickleball Slam 3 approaches, Steffi Graf has praised Eugenie Bouchard for her impressive start in the sport. Graf, who will face Bouchard in the event, discussed the challenges of moving from tennis to pickleball and expressed hope that Bouchard won’t have an unfair advantage.
Graf’s Take on the Transition
In a recent interview, Graf acknowledged Bouchard’s successful transition into professional pickleball. She highlighted the difficulty of switching from tennis, noting how different doubles and mixed formats are in pickleball.
“The jump from tennis into pickleball is not an easy transition, and doubles and mixed is so different from tennis, so it’s a little harder,” Graf said. “We’re hoping she doesn’t have too much of an edge there.”
Agassi Speaks Out in Support of Bouchard
Andre Agassi, who is also preparing for the event, spoke highly of Bouchard’s courage to compete in a new sport. He praised her for being one of the first tennis players to try pickleball professionally.
“To Stef’s point, I totally respect Genie for being one of the first ones to bridge that gap from tennis to pickle. The strength it takes, the courage it takes, to put yourself in a competitive environment, put yourself on the line in something that’s not terribly familiar to you, just shows her competitive (nature),” Agassi said.
Pickleball Slam History
In the last edition of the Pickleball Slam, Steffi Graf teamed up with her husband, Andre Agassi, to defeat John McEnroe and Maria Sharapova.
As preparations for the third edition of the event continue, the rivalry between Graf and Bouchard is building, with both players eager to make their mark in the pickleball world.
What’s Next for Bouchard and the Slam
The upcoming Pickleball Slam 3 will be a major test for Bouchard as she faces seasoned players like Graf. With both tennis and pickleball careers on the line, the event is sure to attract plenty of attention, showing just how much the sport has grown. Fans can expect a thrilling competition on February 16 in Las Vegas, where tennis legends will clash in the world of pickleball.
News in Brief: Steffi Graf Praises Eugenie Bouchard
Ahead of Pickleball Slam 3, Steffi Graf praised Eugenie Bouchard for her successful transition from tennis to pickleball, acknowledging the challenges involved.
Andre Agassi also supported Bouchard, highlighting her courage. The event, featuring a rivalry between Graf and Bouchard, promises an exciting competition on February 16, 2025, in Las Vegas.