Eugenie Bouchard’s Pickleball Rise: Eugenie Bouchard, former Wimbledon finalist, has stepped into the world of professional pickleball while continuing her tennis career. Despite a challenging transition, she remains a fan favorite on the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) Tour and is set to team up with Andy Roddick at “Pickleball Slam 3” in Las Vegas.
A New Chapter in Pickleball
Bouchard, ranked No. 17 in pickleball, signed a three-year deal with the PPA Tour in 2023 while keeping her options open for tennis. She was first approached at the US Open with a pitch to help grow the sport. Though initially hesitant, she embraced the opportunity.
“I’m on center court,” Bouchard said, acknowledging her tennis background as the main draw. However, the transition has not been easy.
“I didn’t like it at first because I was losing and I felt uncomfortable and awkward on the pickleball court.”(Eugenie Bouchard)
Over time, she has adjusted and improved her game.
Connor Pardoe, CEO of the PPA Tour, believed Bouchard’s presence could elevate pickleball.
“She can really help bring us to another level as far as eyeballs,” (Connor Pardoe).
Her participation has contributed to the tour’s success, which saw over 320,000 fans attend PPA and Major League Pickleball (MLP) events in 2023.
Balancing Two Sports
Despite her pickleball commitments, Bouchard continues to compete in tennis. She still holds a Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) ranking at No. 1,288 and regularly trains on the court. The 30-year-old Canadian remains passionate about both sports and is determined to find success in each.
Her pickleball journey has been filled with ups and downs. She is still searching for her first tournament win but remains optimistic.
“Success is going to a tournament and leaving with at least a win,” she said.
Her current record stands at 18-19 in singles, 8-18 in doubles, and 8-19 in mixed doubles.
Bouchard’s pink Versix Vector paddle is designed to complement her tennis skills, and she continues to refine her game. Although she faces setbacks, she maintains a positive outlook. After a recent loss in Tucson, she humorously posted on social media,
“I may not have won the tournament, but at least I had the cutest outfit.”
A Bright Future in Pickleball
Bouchard’s involvement in pickleball has helped bring more attention to the sport. She joins a growing list of former tennis players, including Jack Sock and Donald Young, making the switch. While she remains dedicated to tennis, she finds excitement in the challenges of pickleball.
“I wouldn’t say burned out,” . “I was just excited about a new opportunity.”(Eugenie Bouchard said of her tennis career)
Now, she has a major opportunity ahead—teaming up with Roddick to take on legends Andre Agassi and Steffi Graf at “Pickleball Slam 3.” As she continues balancing both sports, fans will be eager to see how her journey unfolds.
News in Brief: Eugenie Bouchard’s Pickleball Rise
Eugenie Bouchard, a former Wimbledon finalist, has embraced professional pickleball while keeping her tennis career active. Ranked No. 17 in pickleball, she has faced challenges but remains a crowd favorite. She will team up with Andy Roddick for “Pickleball Slam 3,” competing against Andre Agassi and Steffi Graf in Las Vegas.
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