Tennis Legend Ivan Lendl Dominates Pickleball: Tennis great Ivan Lendl continues to prove his competitive edge, this time on the pickleball court, as he and former tennis rival Mikael Pernfors swept the men’s doubles 4.5+ (age 60-69) division at the Pictona Challenge 2025 in Holly Hill, Florida.
The duo cruised through five preliminary matches, never allowing more than four points per game and winning four by either 15-1 or 15-0. In the championship match, Lendl and Pernfors easily defeated Ron Steege and Jager Smith 11-6, 11-1 to claim the title.
Lendl Adds Mixed Doubles Title to His Resume
Lendl’s winning streak didn’t stop there. He partnered with Jean Halahan to dominate the 4.5+ mixed doubles (age 60-74) division, capping off an incredible performance at the tournament.
The pair defeated Joanne Van Deusen and Joe Politano 11-0, 11-2 in the final. Through eight matches, Lendl and Halahan never gave up more than two points per game, showcasing complete control.
From Tennis Rivals to Pickleball Champions
Lendl and Pernfors live in Vero Beach, Florida, and while Lendl is considered one of the greatest tennis players of all time—94 career titles, eight Grand Slams, and 270 weeks as World No. 1—Pernfors also had a successful pro tennis career.
The Swedish player was the 1986 French Open finalist (losing to Lendl), a two-time Davis Cup representative, and 1993 Canadian Open champion, reaching as high as No. 10 in the world rankings. Now, the former rivals are proving that their skills translate seamlessly from tennis to pickleball, dominating the sport’s senior circuit.
News in Brief: Tennis Legend Ivan Lendl Dominates Pickleball
Tennis icon Ivan Lendl teamed up with Mikael Pernfors to win the 4.5+ men’s doubles (60-69) division at the Pictona Challenge 2025 in Holly Hill. Lendl also claimed the 4.5+ mixed doubles (60-74) division with Jean Halahan, capping off a dominant tournament. The former tennis rivals-turned-pickleball champions showcased total control throughout the event.
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