Loryn Hansbrough Competes at Pickleball World Championships: Avid pickleball player and lifestyle influencer Loryn Hansbrough made waves at the Lapiplasty 3D Bunion Correction Pickleball World Championships, where she teamed up with her husband, Ben Hansbrough, for a mixed doubles (5.0) competition. The couple, seasoned veterans in the sport, found themselves in challenges during this particular event. Loryn, 32 weeks pregnant, hit the court at Brookhaven Country Club, marking a milestone for her career and the sport.
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Pregnancy Meets High-Level Competition
Loryn Hansbrough isn’t the first athlete to compete at a high level while pregnant, but her participation at the World Championships stood out. Brooke Buckner, a powerhouse on the PPA Tour with three singles gold medals this season, competed at 30 weeks pregnant, setting a precedent for other women in the sport.
“I don’t last as long, that’s for sure. I can play about half the amount of time I used to because my back is telling me, ‘Okay. You’re done.’” – (Loryn Hansbrough)
But the challenges of pregnancy have surprisingly sharpened her game, forcing her to slow down and focus on precision.
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The Impact of Pregnancy on Her Game
“Honestly, I think it’s helped me to slow down because you have to stop to hit the ball. Before when I was super active, I could move really quick, and sometimes I’d run through my shots. Now when I get there, I have to be slower and make sure that I’m hitting a good, solid shot, and give myself time to do that.” – (Loryn Hansbrough)
Despite having less energy, Loryn has been told her game has improved, with people commenting on her solid shots despite reduced stamina.
“It’s kind of been funny because people have told me that I’m playing great even though I don’t have the same energy and stamina.” – (Loryn Hansbrough)
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Family First: A “Babymoon” at the World Championships
Though Loryn only participated in one event, she spent the rest of the time at the tournament watching the pros, strolling down Pickleball Boulevard, and supporting Ben in his 5.0 men’s doubles match. With their third child on the way, the Hansbroughs considered the tournament a special family occasion.
“We’re considering this tournament our babymoon. Our two kids didn’t come with us and I’m due around Christmas, so this is our last trip kid-free.” – (Loryn Hansbrough)
Loryn also shared a glimpse into their family life, revealing that their six-year-old son, Benji, is already a pickleball fan.
“He loves pickleball. When he’s at my sister’s house and she’s babysitting them, right after dinner he asks to go to the court and wants to go practice. That’s his little night time routine.” – (Loryn Hansbrough)
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A Future Junior Pickleball Star in the Making?
With all the pickleball Loryn Hansbrough has played while pregnant, it’s easy to imagine her baby, “Baby H,” one day following in her footsteps. If Benji’s enthusiasm is any indication, Baby H might just be the next Junior PPA superstar.
News in Brief: Loryn Hansbrough Competes at Pickleball World Championships
Loryn Hansbrough, an avid pickleball player and influencer, competed in the Lapiplasty 3D Bunion Correction Pickleball World Championships while 32 weeks pregnant. Despite physical challenges, Hansbrough’s game improved as she focused on precision.
She spent the rest of her time supporting her husband, Ben Hansbrough, and considered the tournament a “babymoon” before the birth of their third child. Their son Benji, a budding pickleball player, is already practicing the sport regularly.
ALSO READ: Playing Pickleball During Pregnancy: Essential Safety Tips and Benefits