Emma Watson Pickleball Obsession: Actress Emma Watson has discovered a new passion for pickleball, calling it a healthy “obsession” after learning the sport from friends. The Hollywood star was photographed this summer playing pickleball in Cannes, France, during a photo session with photographer Greg Williams for Hollywood Authentic.
A Growing Obsession
In an interview with writer Hassan Akkad for the magazine, Emma Watson explained how she first tried the game.
“A friend of mine’s parents taught me how to play. They’re retired tennis pros. Over time, it’s just grown into kind of an obsession – an obsession I feel good about.”
If I can do anything meaningful with my life, perhaps it’ll be of being in service to the great game that is pickleball!”(Emma Watson)
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Star on and off the Court
The British actress, best known for her roles in the Harry Potter films, The Bling Ring, The Perks of Being a Wallflower, Beauty and the Beast, and Little Women, has a long list of screen successes. She also competed in the 2022 CBS reality sports special Pickled, where celebrities played in a charity pickleball tournament. Watson was paired with boxing legend Sugar Ray Leonard during the event.
Love for the Game
Emma Watson described what keeps her coming back to the court.
“It’s the sound the ball makes when you smack it. It’s the best therapy I never paid for.”(Emma Watson told Hassan Akkad)
Observers noted that she also shows off a strong forehand shot.
Why It Matters
Watson’s enthusiasm highlights the global appeal of pickleball, which is rapidly gaining fans beyond the United States. Her star power could inspire more people to try the sport, especially younger players and international audiences. With celebrities like Watson joining the craze, pickleball’s rise shows no sign of slowing down.
News in Brief: Emma Watson Pickleball Obsession
Emma Watson revealed her love for pickleball after being photographed playing in Cannes, France. Taught by retired tennis pros, she called the sport a “healthy obsession.” Watson, who once competed in a CBS celebrity tournament with Sugar Ray Leonard, says the game’s sound is “the best therapy I never paid for.”
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