Andrei Daescu

Andrei Daescu is a highly accomplished professional pickleball player known for his athleticism, versatility, and strategic play in doubles and mixed doubles competition. Born in Bucharest, Romania, Daescu transitioned from a successful professional tennis career to pickleball, quickly ascending the ranks to become one of the sport’s top performers. As of 2025, Andrei competes mainly on the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) Tour and Major League Pickleball (MLP), where he is celebrated for his consistency and ability to perform under pressure.

Early Life

Daescu was born on August 28, 1988, in Bucharest, Romania. He began playing tennis at age six, inspired by his father who played recreational tennis. Excelling in junior and European circuits, he earned a tennis scholarship to the University of Oklahoma in the United States, where he played collegiate tennis and graduated with a degree in human resource management. Andrei pursued a professional tennis career internationally, achieving a doubles ranking as high as No. 120 in the ATP, representing Romania in Davis Cup, and competing in major events such as the U.S. Open in 2015.

A shoulder injury led him to retire from tennis, and he discovered pickleball in 2017 while working as a head tennis pro at BallenIsles Country Club in Florida. He quickly took to pickleball, competing in local tournaments and embracing the growing sport with enthusiasm. Over several years, Andrei’s dedication paid off as he made a smooth transition to professional pickleball.

Family Life

Andrei Daescu maintains a low-profile personal life. He lives in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, and often credits the supportive pickleball and tennis communities around him for his success. Public sources do not provide extensive details on his immediate family or relationships, reflecting his preference for focusing on his athletic career and community involvement. However, his roots in Romania and family support during his youth in sports have influenced his competitive drive and work ethic.

Career

Since turning professional in pickleball in 2018, Andrei Daescu has amassed an impressive collection of titles and medals. He has earned over a dozen major APP and PPA medals, including gold medals in men’s doubles and mixed doubles. He is widely regarded for his court awareness, powerful groundstrokes, and exceptional net play.

In 2023, Daescu secured the Major League Pickleball Atlanta championship with the Orlando Squeeze team and continues to compete at the highest levels. In 2025, he captured a gold medal in men’s doubles at the PPA Mesa Open alongside Christian Alshon, defeating top competitors Ben Johns and Gabe Tardio in a thrilling five-set final. Currently ranked #4 in men’s doubles and #8 in mixed doubles on the PPA Tour, he remains a perennial contender in professional play.

Andrei plays with the Proton Series Three pick paddle – Project Flamingo version – benefiting from ongoing technological improvements from his sponsor Proton Sports. His extensive tennis background, tactical skills, and calm on-court demeanor make him one of the most respected doubles specialists on tour.

Net Worth

As of 2025, Andrei Daescu’s net worth is not publicly available.

Player Profile