Lauren May’s Pickleball Influence: Lauren May is one of the newest faces helping bring attention to the fast-growing sport of pickleball. A former Division I tennis player, she discovered pickleball after moving to Texas and quickly became hooked. Now, she shares her love for the game through videos and social media. Lauren May not only plays the sport but also creates content, builds partnerships, and helps others feel excited to join the pickleball community.
Lauren May first held a tennis racket at age four. After years of training and competing, including playing for the University of Southern Mississippi, an injury ended her tennis career. She later finished her studies at the University of Alabama.
This year, she picked up a pickleball paddle and instantly felt something click. The sport gave her back the joy of competing, and she now focuses on building a brand that mixes sports, stories, and fun.
A New Sport, a New Identity
Lauren May was drawn to pickleball for its energy and people.
“The sport had everything I loved about tennis, but the people, pace, and energy were different. It wasn’t just fun. It was electric.” – (may)
She found that the community welcomed her full personality—both competitive and creative. Pickleball, unlike tennis, allows players to be expressive.
“Being competitive and charismatic isn’t a contradiction—it’s encouraged.” – (may)
Her experience in tennis gave her strong skills like footwork and timing, but Lauren May believes her mindset is the real advantage.
“When it’s tight, I lean into pressure and I don’t back off.” – (may)
Creating Content With Purpose
Lauren May started making videos to show how it felt to love competing again. As she posted, she noticed that few women in pickleball shared their stories in the way she did—honest, bold, and a little messy.
“I didn’t want to just post drills and match scores. I wanted to tell stories, add humor, and give people a peek behind the curtain.” – (may)
Her content soon built a community.
“It was never about going viral; it was about showing people that there’s space for you in this sport exactly as you are.” – (may)
She keeps control of her brand and partnerships herself, staying focused on what feels real.
“I ask, ‘Would I watch this?’ If the answer’s no, I don’t post it.” – (may)
Brands sometimes get it wrong, she said.
“You can’t copy and paste influencer marketing into sports and expect it to stick. The smartest brands know how to tell stories, not just sell products.” – (may)
What’s Next for Pickleball?
Lauren May hopes to push pickleball into the entertainment world.
“The sport is already massive—we just need to match that with the media and energy it deserves.” – (may)
Her dream is to see the sport featured at big events, fashion shows, and even on popular TV programs.
“I want to help it get there…loud, polished, and unapologetically fun.” – (may)
If she had the chance to play doubles with any celebrity, she would pick some tennis legends.
“Andre and Steffi. Pete Sampras, Rafa (if he doesn’t play yet, who do I need to call?)” – (may)
Lauren May is not just playing pickleball—she is helping shape its future.
News in Brief: Lauren May’s Pickleball Influence
Lauren May, a former D1 tennis player, is now one of the rising stars in pickleball. She mixes sports, content, and culture to grow the game. Her energy, storytelling, and love for competition are helping bring pickleball to new fans everywhere.
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