Andrei Daescu

Player Information

Andrei Dăescu (born 28 August 1988) is a former Romanian professional tennis player who now competes as a professional pickleball player. He began his professional career with the Association of Pickleball Players (APP), where he claimed four gold medals in 2022 and eventually achieved the #1 ranking in both men's doubles and mixed doubles divisions. Dăescu transitioned to pickleball in 2017, and he has accumulated six gold medals in men's doubles and one in mixed doubles on the PPA tour. Currently, he plays for the Columbus Sliders and has secured multiple MLP championship titles.
Birthdate:
28 August 1988
Full Name:
Andrei Dăescu
Birthplace:
Romania
Nationality:
Romanian
Gender:
Male
Education:
University of Oklahoma (University)
Career Started:
2017
Notable Achievements:
Gold Medals in Pickleball (2022, 2025), MLP Championship Titles (2025)
Current Team:
Columbus Sliders
Previous Teams:
Orlando Squeeze (From 2022), Arizona Drive
Player Active:
From - 2017, To - Present
Sponsors:
Proton, Leorever

Andrei Dăescu Bio

Andrei Dăescu (born 28 August 1988) is a Romanian professional pickleball player and former professional tennis player. He transitioned from tennis to pickleball in 2017 and has since become a leading figure in the sport, achieving top rankings and multiple championship titles. Dăescu currently competes for the Columbus Sliders and has earned several gold medals in major pickleball tours.

Early Life and Background

Born in Romania, Andrei Dăescu developed his athletic skills early, eventually pursuing tennis professionally. He attended the University of Oklahoma, where he further honed his sports abilities. His early tennis career included competing on the ITF Men’s Circuit and ATP Tour, representing Romania in the Davis Cup.

Path to Pickleball

After a successful tennis career highlighted by qualifying for the 2015 US Open and achieving a career-high ATP doubles ranking of No. 126, Dăescu transitioned to pickleball in 2017. He quickly adapted to the new sport, leveraging his tennis experience to excel in doubles play. His move to pickleball marked a new chapter, where he rapidly rose through the ranks.

Andrei Dăescu Career

Early Career (2017–2021)

Beginning his pickleball career with the Association of Pickleball Players (APP), Dăescu made an immediate impact. By 2022, he had secured four gold medals and attained the #1 ranking in both men’s doubles and mixed doubles divisions. His early success established him as a formidable competitor in the pickleball community.

Professional Pickleball Association and Major League Pickleball Breakthrough (2022–Present)

Dăescu expanded his career to include the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) tour and Major League Pickleball (MLP). With the Orlando Squeeze, he won his first MLP championship title in Atlanta. After playing for the Arizona Drive, he joined the Columbus Sliders, where he won the 2025 MLP championship, marking his second MLP title. On the PPA tour, he has earned six gold medals in men’s doubles and one in mixed doubles, including a thrilling five-set victory at the 2025 PPA Mesa Open. As of early 2025, he ranks #7 in men’s doubles and #9 in mixed doubles on the PPA tour.

Columbus Sliders Era (2023–Present)

Joining the Columbus Sliders marked a significant phase in Dăescu’s career. His leadership and skill contributed to the team’s 2025 MLP championship victory. His performance continues to demonstrate consistent excellence, making him a key player in the league.

Playing Style and Strengths

Dăescu’s background in professional tennis provides him with exceptional hand-eye coordination and court awareness. He excels in doubles strategy, combining agility and tactical shot placement. His partnerships and communication on court are notable strengths that contribute to his success.

Notable Events and Milestones

Among his career highlights are multiple gold medals across APP and PPA tours, two MLP championship titles, and his peak rankings in both men’s and mixed doubles. His 2025 PPA Mesa Open victory stands out as a dramatic and defining moment.

Andrei Dăescu Career Wins

Andrei Dăescu has accumulated numerous wins across major pickleball tours, including APP, PPA, and MLP. His consistent top finishes and championship titles reflect his status as one of the sport’s elite doubles players.

Professional Pickleball Association Highlights

Dăescu has won six gold medals in men’s doubles and one in mixed doubles on the PPA tour. His most recent gold came at the 2025 PPA Mesa Open, where he triumphed in a closely contested five-set match. These victories underscore his competitive edge and resilience.

Major League Pickleball Titles

He has secured multiple MLP championship titles, winning his first with the Orlando Squeeze and his second with the Columbus Sliders in 2025. These titles highlight his impact in team-based professional pickleball.

Andrei Dăescu Family

Family Background and Personal Life

Public details about Andrei Dăescu’s family and personal life are limited. There is no verified information regarding his marital status or children.

2025 Season Performance

The 2025 season has been a standout year for Andrei Dăescu. He captured the MLP championship with the Columbus Sliders and continued to perform strongly on the PPA tour. His victories and rankings demonstrate his sustained elite form. Team dynamics with the Sliders have been positive, contributing to their championship success. Dăescu’s outlook remains focused on maintaining top performance and adding further titles to his career achievements.