Destanee Aiava Stuns Fans: Australian tennis player Destanee Aiava has shocked fans by announcing her move to pickleball. The 24-year-old, who recently earned her biggest Grand Slam win in January, revealed the news on social media Tuesday (April 1), leaving many wondering about the future of her promising tennis career.
for those who’ve noticed my absence from the court the past couple weeks i want to come on here to announce i’ve now switched from professional tennis to pickleball, i’m very excited for this new chapter and i want to thank everyone who supported me from the beginning to now. pic.twitter.com/BR9QMPbx8P
— des aiava (@xadenrhysandlol) March 31, 2025
Aiava’s Unexpected Announcement
Aiava took to X to confirm her decision, addressing speculation about her recent absence from the tennis circuit.
“For those who have noticed my absence from the court the past couple of weeks, I want to come on here to announce that I have now switched from professional tennis to pickleball. I am very excited for this new chapter and I want to thank everyone who has supported me from the beginning until now.” – (Aiava)
From Australian Open Success to Pickleball
In January, Aiava captured headlines by defeating Belgium’s Greet Minnen 5-7, 7-5, 7-6 to reach the second round of the Australian Open. Her victory at Melbourne Park was the biggest of her Grand Slam career. She last played at the ITF W75 Trnava 2025 in the Czech Republic, where she lost in the Round of 32.
Mixed Reactions from Fans
Aiava’s announcement sparked widespread reactions. Some questioned her decision, while others showed support. Many fans speculated whether it was an April Fool’s joke due to the timing of the post. The sudden shift has raised uncertainty about her future in professional sports.
News in Brief: Destanee Aiava Stuns Fans
Australian tennis player Destanee Aiava announced her switch to pickleball on April 1. The news comes months after her biggest Grand Slam win at the Australian Open. Fans reacted with surprise, with some questioning if it was an April Fool’s joke. Her future in tennis remains uncertain.
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