The 2nd Annual Desert Smash Celebrity Pickleball Challenge lit up La Quinta, California, on Monday, March 3, 2025, as professional athletes and Hollywood stars came together for an exciting day of competition and entertainment. The event, held at the La Quinta Resort Tennis Stadium, saw tennis stars like Naomi Osaka and Nick Kyrgios take on pro pickleball players, including world No. 1 Federico Staksrud. Celebrities such as actor Sam Asghari and singer Jason Derulo also joined the action, making for a thrilling spectacle.
Naomi Osaka and Nick Kyrgios Try Pickleball
One of the biggest highlights of the event was a fun match between four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka and Australian tennis star Nick Kyrgios. The two, known for their powerful tennis games, showcased their athleticism in a different setting, thrilling fans with their quick reflexes and competitive energy.
Kyrgios also had a high-profile showdown against Fredrick Staksurd, the world’s No. 1 pickleball player. The match was a true clash of styles, as the fiery Australian faced off against one of the sport’s top professionals. Staksurd, known for his pinpoint accuracy and fast hands, kept Kyrgios on his toes, making for an exciting contest.
Celebrities Hit the Court
Actor Sam Asghari was a familiar presence on the courts, appearing in multiple matches throughout the day. Singer Jason Derulo also made waves, teaming up with Kyrgios for a pickleball match that had the crowd cheering.
Fans got to see their favorite stars embrace the fast-growing sport, proving that pickleball is gaining traction among both professional athletes and celebrities.
A Charitable Tradition with a New Twist
The Desert Smash is an annual charity event that has been a staple in celebrity tennis since 2004. Traditionally featuring star-studded tennis matchups, the event expanded last year to include pickleball, reflecting the sport’s rapid rise in popularity. The tournament not only entertained fans but also helped raise funds for various charitable causes.
Held at the luxurious La Quinta Resort & Club, the Desert Smash offers a unique blend of high-energy matches, entertainment, and VIP experiences. Over the years, it has grown into a major philanthropic event, drawing global attention while raising millions for impactful organizations.
Event Schedule and Highlights
The event kicked off at 1:00 PM, with ticketed guests entering the venue and exploring the Desert Smash Sponsor Village. At 2:00 PM, Kyrgios recorded a live episode of his “Good Trouble” podcast with a yet-to-be-announced celebrity guest.
The main attraction, the Celebrity Pickleball Challenge, took place from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM, featuring a mix of fun and competitive matches between professional and celebrity players.
Pickleball’s Growing Popularity in the Sports World
With elite athletes like Osaka and Kyrgios trying their hand at pickleball, the sport continues to gain mainstream recognition. The event highlighted pickleball’s appeal to tennis professionals and casual players, reinforcing its status as one of the fastest-growing sports in the world.
The Desert Smash Celebrity Pickleball Challenge proved to be another successful edition, blending sports, entertainment, and philanthropy into one unforgettable experience. Fans can already mark their calendars for next year’s event, set for March 3-4, 2026.
News in Brief: 2nd Annual Desert Smash Celebrity Pickleball Challenge
The 2nd Annual Desert Smash Celebrity Pickleball Challenge took place in La Quinta, California, on March 3, 2025. Tennis stars Naomi Osaka and Nick Kyrgios joined pro pickleball player Federico Staksrud, along with celebrities like Sam Asghari and Jason Derulo, for a day of exciting matches. The event, part of the Desert Smash charity initiative, raised funds for various causes while showcasing pickleball’s growing popularity among top athletes.
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