Domenika Turković in Pickleball Event: Croatian pickleball player Domenika Turković will take part in a special event on June 15, 2025, at Pickleball Klub 002 in Zagreb. The pickleball event will promote the sport and raise money for children battling cancer in Croatia. Turković is using her growing platform to support a cause close to her heart.
From Tennis to Pickleball
Domenika Turković was born in Zagreb, Croatia. She began playing tennis at age six and rose to become Croatia’s top player by 16. After competing in European tournaments and some professional events, she moved to the United States in 2018 on a tennis scholarship to the University of Central Florida.
When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, she transferred to Arizona State University. She earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s degree in sports law and business. During college, she played for a nationally ranked tennis team. Her team ranked as high as 17th, and she reached No. 7 in doubles and No. 69 in singles.
A Surprise Start in Pickleball
Domenika Turković began playing pickleball about two years ago. She started competing as a pro a year and a half ago. Her entry into the sport happened unexpectedly while working as Head Pickleball Professional at Mission Hills Country Club in California.
“To receive the highest coaching certification, I had to compete in a few tournaments. I decided to jump straight into the pro scene and did decently well. It was so much fun to compete again after finishing my tennis career, and I thought it could be a good side gig. After just a few months, it turned into a full-time job, and I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity.” – (Turković)
A Busy Life on and off the Court
Pickleball is mostly an individual sport, and Domenika Turković competes in singles, women’s doubles, and mixed doubles. Although there are team leagues, she is not part of one yet. She trains six days a week with court practice, gym workouts, yoga, and treadmill runs.
“Right now, I play in all APP (Association of Pickleball Players) tournaments, which includes about 12 events per year. I’m also expanding into PPA Challenger events, European tournaments, and the Pickleball World Cup. I spend most of the year traveling either for tournaments or training.” – (Turković)
Loving the Game and Its Challenges
Domenika Turković enjoys the social side of pickleball and how it keeps changing.
“I love how social pickleball is—it’s easy to make friends for life through this game. It’s also constantly evolving, which keeps things exciting. There are always new shots and strategies to learn.” – (Turković)
She recalls her biggest highlight so far.
“My most memorable moment so far was reaching my first-ever Championship Sunday and winning a silver medal in a professional singles tournament in Ohio.” – (Turković)
Making a Living and Finding Support
Earning a living through pickleball is not easy, according to Turković. While some leagues offer good salaries, it is tough to get in. Prize money is available, but players need to place well often.
“It’s not easy yet. One of the professional leagues offers substantial salaries, but it’s tough to break into. The other leagues offer decent prize money, but you need to consistently reach at least the semifinals.” – (Turković)
To help with travel and costs, she relies on sponsors.
“There’s still room for improvement when it comes to supporting professional players financially. That’s why I’m always on the lookout for sponsors to help with travel and tournament expenses. Right now, I’m sponsored by CRBN, Grizzlee Grips, and GameChangeHer. Their support has been a big part of my success so far.” – (Turković)
Croatian Players on the Rise
Domenika Turković is not the only Croatian player on the pro scene. Others include Ivan Jakovljević, Lorena Duknić, Tea Pejić, and Marko Lovrinović.
“Yes! There are a few Croatian players based in the U.S. who are competing professionally—Ivan Jakovljević, Lorena Duknić, Tea Pejić, and Marko Lovrinović. We’re hoping to have a Croatian team represent us at the European Championships in Rome, Italy, and at the Pickleball World Cup in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.” – (Turković)
Looking Ahead
Though she has paused her doctoral studies, Domenika Turković plans to continue playing and promoting pickleball worldwide. She is focused on competing at the highest level and bringing more attention to the sport in Croatia.
“I already have two degrees from Arizona State University, and I completed two semesters of a doctorate before pausing my education to pursue my professional career.” – (Turković)
“In the next few years, I plan to continue competing at the highest level and focus on promoting Croatian pickleball on the international stage. Since I live and train in the U.S., I need to be mindful of my professional athlete visa status, but I also want to expand my tournament schedule into Europe and Asia.” – (Turković)
Home Is Always in Her Heart
Although she now lives in Florida, Domenika Turković still feels connected to her home country.
“I wish I could visit more often, and if everything works out with my visa, I plan to return a few times a year. What I miss most is my family—they’ve always been an incredible support system. I also really miss the food and the beaches. U.S. food can’t compare to ours in any way! I’m a big fan of bakeries, so living outside of Europe is tough for that, haha.” – (Turković)
Promoting the Sport in Croatia
Domenika Turković has big dreams for pickleball in Croatia.
“I would love to help grow the pickleball scene in Croatia and hopefully help build an Olympic team one day. We’re a small country, but the way we compete for each other is special. I’d love to bring that same spirit to pickleball.” – (Turković)
“This sport has done wonders in the U.S. in terms of bringing people together, and I believe we can create that same energy at home. It’s also a great platform to raise awareness for special organizations and build lifelong friendships.” – (Turković)
Her upcoming appearance at Pickleball Klub 002 in Zagreb is one step in that mission. The event on June 15 will not only showcase the sport but also support children with cancer.
News in Brief: Domenika Turković in Pickleball Event
Croatian pickleball player Domenika Turković will play in Zagreb on June 15 at Pickleball Klub 002. The event promotes the sport and raises funds for kids with cancer. Turković, a former tennis star, now lives in Florida and competes worldwide while working to grow pickleball in Croatia.
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