Andy Roddick’s New Move Sparks Pickleball Rivalry: Andy Roddick, the 2003 US Open champion, has taken to pickleball with vigor and creativity since retiring from tennis. As the former ATP World No. 1 prepares for the third edition of Pickleball Slam Event on February 16, 2024, he’s disclosed a new shot dubbed “The Turkey Shot”. This invention, shared on Instagram amid the festive Thanksgiving spirit, highlights Roddick’s ongoing competitive drive and love for the game.
- Roddick has embraced pickleball for competition and recreation post-retirement.
- He regularly shares insights on sports trends via his podcast, including updates on tennis stars like Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray.
- The Pickleball Slam 3 marks Roddick’s return to a highly anticipated event he once won alongside Andre Agassi in 2023.
A Star-Studded Showdown Awaits in Las Vegas
The upcoming Pickleball Slam features an intriguing lineup of tennis greats. This time, Roddick and Eugenie Bouchard will square off against Andre Agassi and Steffi Graf, adding a compelling narrative to the February event in Las Vegas.
- Roddick will face his former partner, Agassi, who teamed with him to win the event’s inaugural edition.
- The prize: a $1M purse, ensuring stakes remain high.
Andre Agassi Turns Up the Heat
In true competitive fashion, Agassi has already begun to stoke the flames of rivalry. In an Instagram post, he issued a bold warning to Roddick, promising no mercy in the upcoming match.
“Yo Andy, I heard that the teams are all set for the Pickleball Slam 3. You and Genie got the ‘Big’ John Isner. Me and Stef got Mardy Fish. Well, we welcome Mardy Fish. And we also welcome the b–t-kicking that we’re gonna drop on you guys. Feb 16, right here in our hometown in Las Vegas. Better show up.” – (Agassi)
The comment sets the stage for an intense battle, as both legends aim to outperform each other in a sport they’ve adapted to post-tennis.
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The Rise of Pickleball Among Former Tennis Stars
Pickleball’s growing popularity has seen legends like Roddick, Agassi, and Graf embracing the sport. For Roddick, it’s an outlet for his unrelenting competitiveness and an opportunity to connect with fans freshly. With “The Turkey Shot” as his newest weapon, Roddick aims to make an impact in the Vegas showdown.
- Roddick’s past victories include winning Pickleball Slam 1 with Agassi.
- Agassi and Graf have the edge as reigning champions of Pickleball Slam 2.
- The third edition promises thrilling action, tactical brilliance, and a glimpse into the stars’ evolving pickleball skills.
News in Brief: Andy Roddick’s New Move Sparks Pickleball Rivalry
Andy Roddick has added flair to his pickleball career with the creation of “The Turkey Shot,” inspired by Thanksgiving. The new move was disclosed ahead of the Pickleball Slam 3 in February 2024, where Roddick and Eugenie Bouchard will face Andre Agassi and Steffi Graf in Las Vegas.
Agassi has already issued a bold warning, promising to defend his title with Graf. The event will offer a $1M prize and feature tennis legends in a thrilling face-off.
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