John Isner’s Surprising U-Turn on Pickleball: John Isner, the former world No. 8 tennis player and record-holder for the fastest official serve in tennis history, once viewed the rising world of professional pickleball with skepticism. For someone who has dominated the tennis court with his incredible serve, the idea of transitioning to a new sport seemed far-fetched. “I didn’t believe it was something that could endure,” Isner remarked, reflecting on his initial doubts about pickleball’s longevity. However, as time has passed and his perspective has evolved, Isner now finds himself embracing the sport.
Finding a New Passion
Isner first picked up a pickleball paddle three years ago, and what began as a casual interest quickly transformed into a genuine passion. “I’m happy to say I was wrong,” he confessed. His journey from doubt to enthusiasm is emblematic of many athletes who have discovered the joy of pickleball. With its unique blend of strategy and social interaction, Isner recognized the sport’s potential, not only for competition but also for personal enjoyment.
“Pickleball is a fantastic sport, and I’ve really enjoyed playing it.” – (Isner)
A Record-Setting Background
Best known for his towering presence on the tennis court, Isner holds the record for the fastest “official” serve in tennis, clocking in at an astounding 157.2 MPH. His career is marked by notable achievements, including reaching No. 8 in singles and No. 14 in doubles. Yet, as he goes through this new chapter, it’s evident that pickleball has carved out a special place in his athletic repertoire.
The DUPR Dilemma
When asked about his DUPR score—a rating system used to measure player skill—Isner’s candidness shone through. “If Ben (Johns) is a seven, then I think I’m a 3.5,” he quipped, demonstrating his light-hearted approach to the sport.
However, it appears that Isner is not fully aware of the intricacies of DUPR scores, as his actual score is a respectable 5.276. This amusing exchange highlights the learning curve he’s experiencing in this rapidly evolving sport.
News in Brief: John Isner’s Surprising U-Turn on Pickleball
John Isner, the former world No. 8 tennis player known for his record 157.2 MPH serve, has expressed newfound enthusiasm for pickleball after initially doubting its viability as a professional sport. Having played for three years, Isner now considers pickleball a vital part of his athletic life. When asked about his DUPR score, he humorously guessed a 3.5, unaware that his actual rating is 5.276, showcasing his learning journey in this rapidly growing sport.
