Genie Bouchard Pickleball Final Debut: Genie Bouchard advanced to her first career Professional Pickleball Association final after defeating Lea Jansen 11-5, 11-8 on September 26, 2025, at the Pickleball Central Sacramento Vintage Open in Sacramento, California. The win capped an outstanding day in which the Canadian secured three singles victories to book her spot in Sunday’s championship match.
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From Tennis Stardom to Pickleball Success
Bouchard, a former WTA star who reached a career-high world tennis ranking of No. 5 and played in eight WTA singles finals, is making a strong mark in pickleball. Her run in Sacramento marks a new personal best in the sport, surpassing her previous semifinal appearance last October in Las Vegas.
Smart Tactics With a Wooden Paddle
All players at this tournament are competing with wooden paddles, which require a different approach. Genie Bouchard explained her strategy after the match, saying,
“I think there’s more of an advantage at the kitchen line with the wooden paddle. I find it a little bit harder to pass with, so that was my thought there.”
By moving up to the kitchen line early, Bouchard kept control of the rallies and limited Lea Jansen’s opportunities to attack.
A Milestone Moment
After sealing the victory, Bouchard reflected on what the result means to her pickleball journey.
“It’s so special. I’ve wanted to make a final ever since I started playing pickleball, and I’m so excited to be in my first one,” (Genie Bouchard).
With this win, Bouchard sets up a chance to claim her first PPA singles title and continues to show her growth in the sport.
News in Brief: Genie Bouchard Pickleball Final Debut
Genie Bouchard beat Lea Jansen 11-5, 11-8 to reach her first PPA singles final at the Sacramento Vintage Open. The former WTA tennis star used sharp net play with a wooden paddle to control the match. Bouchard called the achievement “so special” as she now chases her first pickleball championship.
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