Naomi Osaka Crushes Kevin Hart in Pickleball: Japanese tennis star Naomi Osaka showed her growing skills in pickleball, defeating Hollywood comedian Kevin Hart during a friendly match at his house. Hart, a pickleball enthusiast, admitted he underestimated Osaka’s talent, joking about his loss on social media.
Hart, known for playing pickleball alongside celebrities like Shaquille O’Neal and Leonardo DiCaprio, invited Osaka for a game at his home. Though he initially put up a fight, losing the first game 11-7, the former Grand Slam champion dominated the second game with an 11-1 victory. Hart shared the match highlights on Instagram, praising Osaka’s abilities.
“Word on the street is that I might be a pro in pickle ball …. Ok not really but I’m good damn it…. At least I thought I was until @naomiosaka came over to my house and wh**ped my a** like I stole something First game I held my own 11-7 and felt good about myself…. The next game she made me understand the true definition of a pro and beat me 11-1.” – (kevin Hart)
Hart also expressed his admiration for Osaka, wishing her success in the upcoming Australian Open.
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Expanding Pickleball’s Popularity
Osaka’s involvement in pickleball extends beyond friendly games. She has invested in a Major League Pickleball franchise, joining other high-profile athletes like NBA stars LeBron James and Patrick Mahomes in promoting the sport. Pickleball, known for its accessibility and rapid rise in popularity, has drawn attention from fans and critics in recent years.
Despite her enthusiasm, tennis legends like Rennae Stubbs and Martina Navratilova remain skeptical of pickleball’s growing prominence. Stubbs openly criticized tennis players investing in pickleball, saying,
“Just to let everyone know, I will NOT be investing in a Pickleball franchise & will never turn a tv on to watch Pickleball. I would rather watch pain dry. Why all these tennis players think Pickleball is worth investing in & not the game that made them all the $$$ is beyond me. Because Pickleball is and it’s even worse to watch on tv!! Thursday Ratings: CBS Fails to Capitalize on the ‘Pickled’ Craze.” – (Rennae Stubbs)
Navratilova echoed these sentiments, suggesting the sport’s appeal lies in its simplicity.
“Biggest reason pickle ball is so popular, (in my not so humble opinion), is that you can be decent and feel successful rather quickly. Unlike tennis, which- in the words of my friend Joel Drucker- takes a long time not to suck.” – (Martina Navratilova)
Multi-talented and Determined
Osaka’s recent performance in pickleball highlights her versatility as an athlete. From her playful start in Japan, where she struggled to land her first shot, to outplaying Hart in their match, she has shown rapid improvement. Her dedication to tennis and pickleball shows her drive to excel in every challenge she takes on.
With her Australian Open preparations underway, fans eagerly await to see if her winning streak in pickleball will translate into success on the tennis court in 2025.
News in Brief: Naomi Osaka Crushes Kevin Hart in Pickleball
Japanese tennis star Naomi Osaka showed her pickleball skills by defeating comedian Kevin Hart in a friendly match at his home. Hart, a pickleball fan, admitted to underestimating Osaka’s skills after losing 11-7 and 11-1. Osaka, who has invested in a Major League Pickleball franchise, joins athletes like LeBron James in promoting the sport’s growth.
Despite its rising popularity, tennis legends Rennae Stubbs and Martina Navratilova remain skeptical, criticizing pickleball’s simplicity and entertainment value. Osaka’s versatility as an athlete shines as she prepares for the 2025 Australian Open, proving her ability to excel in multiple sports while inspiring fans worldwide.
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