Thursday, October 23, 2025

17-Year-Old Golf Star’s Pickleball Passion, Charms Fans with Talent

17-Year-Old Golf Star’s Pickleball Passion: Blades Brown, a 17-year-old golfer debuting at The American Express Championship in California, has captured attention for his skills on the PGA Tour and his love of pickleball. The Nashville native enjoys playing the sport with his family, especially his competitive mother, Rhonda Blades Brown.

Blades’ mother, a former WNBA player, shares her son’s passion for competition. During his downtime at the tournament in La Quinta, Blades eagerly texted her to bring pickleball gear so they could face off on the court.

“We go at it hard in pickleball,” Blades said during a press conference. “She’s intimidating sometimes. If I go up three or four points, she gives me this look, and I think, ‘Do I want to risk my relationship with my mom right now?’”

Golf Prodigy with a Passion for Pickleball

Blades is no stranger to competition. The young athlete has built an impressive list of amateur achievements and is poised to make a splash in professional golf.

Yet, his love for pickleball highlights his down-to-earth nature and close family bonds. The Browns, including Blades’ father Parke, frequently play pickleball at home in Nashville, making the game a family pastime.

GolfDigest.com Senior Editor Tod Leonard described how Blades reacted with excitement at seeing pickleball courts while flying over the Coachella Valley. “Pickleball has become a favored pastime for the clan,” Leonard noted, emphasizing how deeply ingrained the sport is in their family life.

A Rising Star to Watch

Blades’ calm demeanor, drive, and ability to balance golf and pickleball have made him a standout athlete. His debut at The American Express Championship will test his skills against some of the game’s top players, but his commitment to enjoying life off the course adds depth to his character.

Fans and experts alike are drawn to his dynamic personality and unique story. “He’s an exceptional young talent with a bright future ahead,” one observer noted. Whether on the fairway or the pickleball court, Blades continues to leave a lasting impression.

Inspiration for the Future

Blades Brown represents the new generation of multi-talented athletes who find joy in competition across sports. His connection to his family through pickleball serves as a reminder of the importance of balance, even at the highest levels of achievement.

As he navigates his professional golf career, Blades’ story inspires both athletes and fans to embrace competition while cherishing moments with loved ones.

News in Brief: 17-Year-Old Golf Star’s Pickleball Passion

Blades Brown, a 17-year-old golfer debuting at The American Express Championship, is gaining recognition for his golf skills and love of pickleball. Playing regularly with his family, especially his mother, adds to his charm and grounded nature. His story is an inspiration for balancing competition with family connections.

ALSO READ: Columbus Amateur Open: Where Pickleball Passion Meets Competition

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