Eugenie Bouchard and Jack Sock have taken their pickleball training to new heights—literally. The two former tennis stars were seen practicing during a flight in March, with Bouchard sharing the moment on Instagram. Sock reposted the clip, joking, “ok we will stop annoying the plane.”
Transitioning from Tennis to Pickleball
Bouchard, once a Wimbledon finalist, is now ranked No. 17 in pickleball. While still competing in professional tennis, she has embraced the growing sport, even launching her own signature paddle. Sock, who made his pickleball debut at the 2023 PPA North Carolina Open, has also found success, winning a mixed doubles gold medal with Anna Leigh Waters.
Competitive Performances and Mixed Doubles Teaming
The duo has played together in multiple mixed doubles tournaments. In January, they competed at the PPA Masters but were eliminated early. At February’s Tuscan Open, they faced Lindsey Newman and Ivan Jakovljevic, losing 8-11, 5-11. Despite setbacks, they continue to train and compete.
Pickleball’s Growing Popularity
Pickleball has been named the fastest-growing sport in the U.S. for four years in a row. Tennis legend Andre Agassi lauded its accessibility, saying,
“Anybody can pick up a pickleball racket, anybody. It’s not intimidating. You grab the paddle and you try it, and every ten minutes you get better. I don’t care what level you play at.” – (Agassi)
Impact on the Sport
Bouchard and Sock’s involvement highlights the growing crossover between tennis and pickleball. With more professional athletes making the switch, the sport continues to expand, drawing in new fans and players. Their unconventional mid-flight practice session only adds to the excitement surrounding pickleball’s rapid rise.
News in Brief: Eugenie Bouchard and Jack Sock
Eugenie Bouchard and Jack Sock took their pickleball training to the skies, practicing mid-flight in March. Both former tennis pros have embraced the sport, competing in mixed doubles events. Pickleball remains the fastest-growing sport in the U.S., with more athletes transitioning from tennis to join the movement.