Rachel Rohrabacher’s New Legacy: Rachel Rohrabacher’s journey from a promising tennis career to becoming a rising star in pickleball is a testament to her adaptability and passion for sports. As tennis courts across the country echo with the sound of pickleball—a game that blends the best of tennis and ping-pong—Rachel has found herself at the forefront of this rapidly growing sport. Her story is one of transition, ambition, and the pursuit of a new legacy.
A Tennis Background with a Championship History
Rachel’s love for sports began on the tennis court. “I started playing tennis when I was 6 years old and went on to receive a full scholarship at the University of South Carolina,” she recalls. Her time in South Carolina was marked by success, as she and her team rose to the No. 3 ranking in the nation and clinched the SEC Championships in 2019. Rachel herself achieved a personal ranking of No. 9 in doubles, setting multiple records for most matches won in a season.
Despite her impressive accomplishments in tennis, Rachel faced the harsh realities of injuries and the financial burdens that come with pursuing a professional career in the sport. The transition from tennis to pickleball wasn’t immediate but it was inevitable.
“I stopped playing tennis when I graduated, and although I was introduced to pickleball [from my former junior tennis coach] soon after, I did not commit to practicing or playing tournaments until 2023.” – (Rachel)
Rachel Embraces the Challenge of Pickleball
For Rachel, the switch to pickleball was more than just a change of equipment—it was a chance to use the skills she had developed over years of intense training and competition. “Pickleball allows me to utilize the athletic abilities I have been honing my entire life and make a career of it,” she says. Joining Selkirk Sport’s Elite Pro roster in 2023, Rachel quickly established herself as a formidable player in Major League Pickleball.
The appeal of pickleball lies in its accessibility and the unique blend of speed and strategy it requires. “I love the quickness of pickleball, especially the hand battles at the net,” Rachel explains. The sport’s rapid pace and the intense focus needed during matches provide her with the competitive outlet she thrives on.
Rachel’s Legacy in Pickleball
As pickleball continues to gain popularity, Rachel is aware of the role she plays in shaping its future.
“It’s surreal to be a part of this sport because it is still in its infancy and will likely be 10 times bigger in five years than it is today.” – (Rachel)
Her goal is to leave a lasting mark on pickleball through her performances on the court and her influence on it. “I hope to continue making a footprint and one day become a legacy of the sport,” Rachel states, showing her commitment to this rising game.
Advice for Aspiring Pickleball Players
For those looking to pick up a paddle and try pickleball for themselves, Rachel offers practical advice. “I would suggest playing rec games as much as possible,” she advises, emphasizing the importance of familiarizing oneself with the rules and scoring. This foundation, she believes, is key to developing a natural feel for the game. And for those in her hometown of Cincinnati, there’s a personal recommendation:
“Rachel loves playing at Aces Pickleball in Norwood.”
Rachel Rohrabacher’s story is just one of many in the fast-evolving world of pickleball, but it’s a powerful example of how athletes can redefine themselves and find success in new arenas. As the sport grows, so does Rachel’s influence, solidifying her place in what may become the next great American pastime.
News in Brief: Rachel Rohrabacher’s New Legacy
Rachel Rohrabacher, a former tennis standout, has made a significant transition to pickleball, showing her adaptability and passion. After excelling in tennis—earning a scholarship to the University of South Carolina and achieving a No. 9 national doubles ranking—Rachel faced the challenges of injuries and the costs of a professional career.
In 2023, she embraced pickleball, joining Selkirk Sport’s Elite Pro roster and quickly making her mark in Major League Pickleball. Rachel’s goal is to shape the sport’s future and build a lasting legacy. She advises newcomers to play rec games and familiarize themselves with the rules.
