Megan Fudge Playing English Open: US pickleball star Megan Fudge is gearing up to take center stage at the Skechers Pickleball English Open, marking her return to familiar grounds as she competes in Telford. Although Fudge is based in the United States, her connection to England runs deep. Her teenage years were spent at Somerset’s Millfield boarding school, and her family still spans Europe—her grandparents are in London and her parents in Germany.
“I’m super excited to get back to England. I actually went to boarding school in England and it was a very fun place. My grandparents lived in London all my life so I love coming back to England and supporting English pickleball.” – (Megan)
Family Support at the Tournament
This year’s tournament is particularly special as her parents are flying in from Germany.
“My last year at the England Open was my dad’s first ever pickleball tournament watching me live, which was so funny because like my dad was my tennis coach growing up all my life. It’s super exciting to have them back out there again this year. Being surrounded by family and friends, it’s just unique and fun and obviously adds to the atmosphere.” – (Megan)
A Family Affair
For Fudge, pickleball is a family affair. Her husband, Ryler DeHeart, also competes professionally, while her children, Lily and JR, play in the juniors division.
“It’s allowed me to do my job. The fact that my kids get to play pickleball and compete as well and are not just sitting around bored, watching me do my job playing pickleball, it’s been great. The distraction, the exercising, making friends, meeting people, competing, learning—it’s been so fun watching them on this journey too. It’s been a great opportunity for us as a family to grow.” – (Megan)
Anticipating International Competition
An established figure in the US pickleball circuit, Fudge is eager to face new challenges.
“I love the fact that I’m coming to Europe to play other players. The American market, I know most of the players there and I’m getting to know a lot of the European players and also the Indian and the Asian players as well. I think there’s a good mix for the English Open and it’s going to be fun and exciting to play others. I know everybody’s just getting better and better by the day and it’s going to definitely be more and more challenging, but I’m excited to see how it all pans out.” – (Megan)
News in Brief: Megan Fudge Playing English Open
US pickleball star Megan Fudge is featuring in the Skechers Pickleball English Open, in Telford, UK, marking a significant return to her roots. Though based in the US, Fudge’s ties to England are strong, having attended Millfield boarding school and with family across Europe.
Her parents will be in attendance, adding to the special atmosphere of the event. Pickleball is a family affair for Fudge, with her husband, Ryler DeHeart, also a pro, and their children participating in juniors. Fudge is excited to test her skills against international competitors, highlighting the growing diversity and competitiveness in the sport.
