Simone Jardim’s Secret Pickleball Tips: Pickleball enthusiasts in Naples gathered at the USOP National Pickleball Center for a special opportunity to learn from former world No. 1 Simone Jardim. The decorated champion returned to the city where she made history, offering tips and tricks to local players ahead of the U.S. Open Pickleball Championships.
A Champion’s Advice on the Game
Jardim, a four-time U.S. Open women’s singles champion, is no stranger to coaching. Before turning pro, she focused on teaching, making her clinic a natural fit.
“Before I was playing pro, I was teaching pickleball, so this is kind of second nature to me,” Jardim said. “I love being with the people that have always supported me and that have always had my back.”
She emphasized the importance of mastering both power and precision.
“The easy part of pickleball is to hit it hard, and a lot of people love that part,” Jardim said. “The hard part is to hit it soft, so I always tell them you can drive balls all day long, but working on your soft game is really important. I mean, it’s not that you’re going to stop hitting the ball hard, but you have to add that to your repertoire.”
A Warm Welcome from the Naples Community
Jardim has long been a favorite in Naples, where she won four consecutive singles titles from 2016 to 2019. Her presence remains a major draw for local fans.
“She’s one of the OGs of pickleball, so we’re super happy to have her back,” said Justin Romero, Executive Director of the USOP National Pickleball Center. “She started the first U.S. Open in 2016, and she’s played it every year. Our members from Naples really love her, and she’s a hometown hero.”
Jardim is in Naples representing Lucky in Love, a sports apparel brand, and is preparing for her return to competition at this year’s U.S. Open Pickleball Championships from April 26 through May 3.
News in Brief: Simone Jardim’s Secret Pickleball Tips
Pickleball legend Simone Jardim visited the USOP National Pickleball Center in Naples to share tips with local players. The former world No. 1, a four-time U.S. Open champion, emphasized the importance of a strong soft game. She will compete in the U.S. Open Pickleball Championships from April 26 to May 3.
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