Genie Bouchard Injured in Pickleball Training: Genie Bouchard, the former tennis star turned professional pickleball player, sustained a scratched cornea during a recent training session but is determined to compete in the upcoming Daytona Beach Open presented by ROAR Organic. The injury occurred when a ball deflected off her partner’s paddle and struck her eye, causing her to seek urgent medical care. Despite the setback, Bouchard remains positive and expects to recover in time for the event.
“Got hit in the eye with a pickleball during training today. It was a shank off my partner’s paddle straight into the eye Went to urgent care and have a scratched cornea. The things we do for this sport! Will be healed in a matter of days.” Bouchard shared on social media alongside an update about her condition.
https://twitter.com/geniebouchard/status/1867359092949303428
Growing Risks in a Faster Game
Bouchard’s injury highlights a growing concern in the pickleball community as the sport becomes faster and more competitive. With courts measuring just 20 feet by 44 feet and players frequently at close range, the risk of unexpected deflections and high-speed impacts is increasing. More professional and amateur players are now opting for protective eyewear to prevent eye injuries like Bouchard’s.
Determined to Compete in Daytona
Despite the injury, Bouchard has confirmed she will compete at this week’s Daytona Beach Open, one of the season’s key events. Bouchard will play singles, women’s doubles alongside Layne Sleeth, and mixed doubles with Mota Alhouni. Her resilience and determination to return to the court reflect her growing commitment to the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) Tour as she wraps up her first full season.
Bouchard’s experience on the tennis courts has translated well to her new sport, where quick reflexes and hand-eye coordination are crucial. Since joining the PPA Tour, she has steadily improved and gained recognition as a competitive force in pickleball.
Eye Injuries on the Rise
The risk of eye injuries in pickleball is an emerging topic of discussion among professionals and recreational players. According to the U.S. Pickleball Association, eye injuries have increased as more people take up the sport. A combination of smaller courts, fast-moving balls, and paddle deflections often puts players at risk.
Impact on Pickleball Safety
Bouchard’s incident serves as a wake-up call for pickleball players of all levels. As the sport continues to grow in popularity and intensity, safety precautions will become increasingly important. Whether at the professional or recreational level, players are urged to consider protective equipment to avoid similar injuries.
With Bouchard set to compete in Daytona Beach Open, fans will be watching closely to see how she performs following her recovery. Her ability to push through the injury highlights her dedication to the sport and the need for greater awareness of player safety.
News in Brief: Genie Bouchard Injured in Pickleball Training
Genie Bouchard, former tennis star turned professional pickleball player, suffered a scratched cornea during training after a ball deflected off her partner’s paddle. Despite urgent care treatment, Bouchard remains determined to compete in the Daytona Beach Open.
Her injury highlights rising safety concerns as the fast-paced sport grows, with experts emphasizing the need for protective eyewear. Fans applaud Bouchard’s resilience as she gears up to play singles, women’s doubles, and mixed doubles.
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