Pickleball’s ATP Moves Hit SportsCenter: Critics may think and question whether pickleball qualifies as a real sport, but a growing number of pros are consistently proving them wrong. Their outstanding individual efforts have been earning them rightful spots on SportsCenter’s Top 10, presenting a level of skill and athleticism that demands respect and attention.
Making SportsCenter’s Top 10
Securing a place on the legendary highlight reel is no small deal. The decision-makers at ESPN look for plays that meet specific criteria, and pickleball has repeatedly delivered. One particular move that has caught their eye time and again is the ATP, or “around the post” shot.
Standout Performances
Jaume Martinez Vich earned the No. 5 spot with a stunning ATP in men’s singles. His ability to navigate the court and deliver such an impressive shot left audiences in awe and strengthened his place in the top-tier pickleball talent.
Similarly, Ben Johns, a dominant force in the sport, also grabbed the No. 5 spot with his ATP. Johns’ consistent presence in top plays shows his skill and the growing recognition of pickleball’s best athletes.
View this post on Instagram
Catherine Parenteau’s ATP in women’s doubles landed her the No. 8 spot, demonstrating that the sport’s female athletes are equally capable of producing jaw-dropping moments.
D.C. Pickleball Team’s Dekel Bar secured the No. 9 spot with his ATP in men’s doubles, further proving that this shot is a surefire way to impress and end up on national television. Bar’s performance not only showcased his individual talent but also the strategic depth of doubles play.
Fan Favorites and Exceptional Talents
James Ignatowich has become a favorite among ESPN producers, frequently catching their eye with his ATPs. His men’s doubles highlight earned him the No. 3 spot, while another backhanded ATP in mixed doubles secured him the coveted No. 1 spot. Ignatowich’s repeated appearances demonstrate his exceptional skill and the thrilling nature of his play.
While the ATP might be the most common shot that gets recognized, any seemingly impossible shot can qualify. The “tweener,” or between-the-legs shot, is another crowd-pleaser. Ben Johns once again made the list with a spectacular tweener in men’s doubles, proving his versatility and flair.
Jack Sock, a well-known tennis player, brought his talents to pickleball and made an immediate impact. In his first-ever pickleball tournament in 2023, Sock reached the No. 5 spot with a dazzling tweener, showcasing his adaptability and skill.
Jay Devilliers also made waves with a remarkable backhander that earned him the No. 6 spot. His ability to execute such a difficult shot under pressure highlights the athleticism required to excel in pickleball.
Collin Shick adopted the No. 4 spot with an extraordinary display of athleticism against Tyson McGuffin. Shick’s persistence sprinting and agility underlined the physical demands of the sport and his determination to succeed.
Other notable players like JW Johnson, Jhonnatan Medina-Alvarez, and Federico Staksrud have also featured in SportsCenter’s Top 10, further strengthening pickleball’s status as a sport deserving of respect and recognition.
As pickleball continues to grow, its players are proving that they belong in the conversation alongside more traditional sports. Their performances are not just remarkable for pickleball but stand out in the broader landscape of athletic achievement. The future of pickleball is undeniably bright, and its stars are shining on the biggest stages, one highlight at a time.
News in Brief: Pickleball’s ATP Moves Hit SportsCenter
Critics may question pickleball’s legitimacy as a sport, but pros are proving them wrong with standout performances earning spots on SportsCenter’s Top 10. Players like Jaume Martinez Vich, Ben Johns, and Catherine Parenteau have presented remarkable ATP shots, landing them in the spotlight. James Ignatowich ATPs even earned him the No. 1 spot. Beyond the ATP, impressive shots like the “tweener” have also made waves, with Ben Johns and Jack Sock delivering unforgettable plays. Other stars like Jay Devilliers, Collin Shick, JW Johnson, Jhonnatan Medina-Alvarez, and Federico Staksrud continue to highlight pickleball’s skill and athleticism. As the sport grows, its athletes are gaining well-deserved recognition on the national stage.
Also read: Joola Faces Lawsuit Over Alleged Misrepresentation of Pickleball Paddles
