Professional Tennis Player Adjusts to Pickleball: John Isner, a towering figure in tennis, has recently found his way into pickleball, joining a growing number of former pro tennis players who have made the transition to the fast-growing sport. Having participated in several pickleball tournaments, including the Deep Eddy Vodka Celebrity Showdown, Isner has discovered a community in pickleball that’s as passionate as it is welcoming.
“In the pickleball world, the community here is very strong. The people love the sport so much and they love being out and competing against each other. I think that’s what makes this sport so attractive and unique. You have people here from all over the country in community with each other, so it’s incredible.” – (John Isner)
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The Pickleball Transition
Initially, transitioning from tennis to pickleball seemed like a natural fit for Isner. The fundamentals of the game are somewhat familiar, especially for athletes of his caliber. However, he quickly discovered the sport’s intricacies posed new challenges.
Isner’s Struggle with the Rules: The biggest hurdle for Isner has been the absence of the overhand serve, a signature move in his tennis career.
“Coming from tennis, you can pick up the game pretty quickly. But, I don’t like that I can’t hit an overhand serve. That was my biggest weapon in tennis and I can’t do that here. You take away my biggest weapon and then I’m automatically not that good of a player. I become an average player without it.” – (John Isner)
While this shift is frustrating, it’s clear that Isner is committed to improving. Like many newcomers, he’s still developing his game, learning how to end points with precision like the seasoned professionals on the circuit.
Jack Sock: A Friend and Mentor
One of the main highlights of Isner’s journey into pickleball has been the success of his close friend, Jack Sock. Sock, a former tennis pro turned pickleball standout, is proving that the transition from one sport to another is possible—and even fruitful.
“Jack is incredible, dynamic, and athletic. He has a lot of skills and talent with his hands because he’s so fast and explosive. It’s almost like he was made for this game.” – (John Isner)
Isner recognizes that the road to pickleball proficiency might take time, but seeing Sock’s success provides hope. Though Isner may not reach Sock’s level immediately, the friendship and mutual support between the two are clear.
“Honestly, he just laughs at me. But, it’s because we have a good relationship in that way.” – (John Isner)
The “Nothing Major” Podcast: A Reflection of Their Friendship
Beyond their sporting endeavors, Isner and Sock also share a friendship that extends to their podcast, Nothing Major, where the pair connect with fellow tennis stars Sam Querrey and Stevie Johnson. The podcast has become a way for them to stay connected with the game and each other.
“It’s honestly super cliché when you get four retired athletes from the tennis world starting a podcast. We retired and we’re like, ‘Let’s start a podcast just like everyone else has,’ but we’ve actually had a decent amount of success so far. We have a lot of fun with it.” – (John Isner)
Despite the podcast’s lighthearted nature, it’s also provided valuable connections with current players, including rising stars like Taylor Fritz. The chance to remain involved in the tennis community keeps their bond strong, even after retirement. Though Isner isn’t planning on making pickleball his full-time pursuit like Sock, his affection for the game is genuine.
“We may be retired, but we’re still relevant to the game, and getting to know all the players on tour like Taylor Fritz through this podcast has been good. And it’s just a good excuse to get together and talk with the boys.” – (John Isner)
News in Brief: Professional Tennis Player Adjusts to Pickleball
John Isner, former tennis pro, is finding his place in pickleball, thanks to his bond with Jack Sock, another ex-tennis player who has found success in the sport. Though Isner faces challenges adjusting to pickleball, particularly with the absence of his overhand serve, his friendship with Sock and their Nothing Major podcast help him stay connected to tennis. Isner’s love for pickleball remains strong, despite not pursuing it full-time.
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