Eugenie Bouchard’s Transition to Pickleball: Eugenie Bouchard, former Wimbledon finalist, has embraced pickleball after joining the PPA Tour. Despite initial challenges, the Canadian star has steadily improved, earning respect within the fast-growing sport.
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From Tennis to Pickleball: A Unique Transition
Bouchard’s background in tennis made many assume she’d excel in singles pickleball. However, her initial experience was different. “I felt like a fish out of water,” she said. Surprisingly, she found comfort in doubles, enjoying the partnership and support on the court.
“Everyone told me at the beginning that singles would be the most natural to me because it’s so much like tennis, but I also felt uncomfortable and like a fish out of water on the court because I’d never played this before. I actually preferred having a partner with me to help me out. I liked women’s and mixed doubles more because I didn’t feel alone out there. I didn’t feel awkward and weird when I had a partner next to me because I didn’t know what I was doing when I was out there.” – (Eugenie Bouchard)
Teaming up with skilled pros like Tyler Loong, Ryan Sherry, and Ava Ignatowich helped her adapt.
“Doubles is fun because of that partner aspect. All my partners are better than me because everyone on tour is better than me, so it’s fun to be able to learn from them and they help me so much. I enjoy the dynamic of having a buddy on the court with me. It’s fun to always have those automatic friends in your partners and get to play with them frequently.” – (Eugenie Bouchard)
“Ryan and I train together, and sometimes he’ll come to Miami and we’ll do some training sessions together. When we go to tournaments, he’ll help me out. I played doubles with him for the first time in San Clemente, and even though we lost, it was still really fun. He has such a fun and outgoing personality. It makes it enjoyable to play with him.” – (Eugenie Bouchard)
Ryan Sherry, in particular, became a key mentor and friend. “We train together, and he helps me during tournaments,” she said. Their bond has grown, adding fun and strategy to her doubles matches.
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Building Confidence in Singles Play
Though she preferred doubles at first, Bouchard now appreciates singles. Her strong tennis background shone in her semifinals run at the Rate Championships in Las Vegas.
“I liked doubles first, but now I like singles because I’ve got some match wins under my belt. I feel like singles is probably where I can be at my best because I’ve done tennis for 25 years and the game is more similar to that.” – (Eugenie Bouchard)
This success boosted her confidence and highlighted her growth in the sport. With match wins under her belt, Bouchard is now a formidable singles competitor.
Expanding Her Role in Pickleball
Beyond competing, Bouchard is actively engaging with the pickleball community. She recently teamed up with Versix to launch her signature paddle, further solidifying her place in the sport.
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Impact on the Sport
Bouchard’s transition shows pickleball’s growing appeal and inclusivity. Her journey inspires new and seasoned players, proving that dedication and learning can lead to success. As she continues to improve, Bouchard is assured to make an even greater impact on the court and beyond.
News in Brief: Eugenie Bouchard’s Transition to Pickleball
Former Wimbledon finalist Eugenie Bouchard has embraced pickleball, joining the PPA Tour and transitioning from tennis to excel in doubles and singles play. With mentorship and growing confidence, she’s become a competitive player. Eugenie Bouchard’s journey, including launching a signature paddle, highlights pickleball’s inclusivity and inspires players to embrace the sport.
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