Hurricane Tyra Black

Tyra Black, affectionately known as “Hurricane,” is a dynamic and accomplished professional pickleball player noted for her aggressive style, agility, and strategic prowess. Born on March 2, 2001, in Boca Raton, Florida, she has quickly become a leading figure in the sport, earning gold medals and multiple accolades in singles, doubles, and mixed doubles competitions. Tyra balances her athletic career with community involvement and advocacy, making her a respected ambassador for pickleball.

Early Life

Tyra was born into a family with a rich history in racquet sports. Her father, Sylvester Black, played for the Jamaican Davis Cup team, and her sister, Alicia “Tornado” Black, is also a professional tennis player. Tyra began playing tennis at the age of five and competed competitively from age eight, winning several junior titles. Coached by renowned trainers such as Rick Macci, she developed a powerful serve and aggressive ground game, traits which have carried into her pickleball style.

Her tennis career included notable performances in ITF and Grand Slam junior events, achieving a singles ranking of No. 105 and doubles ranking of No. 42 by mid-2023. She faced injuries and mental health challenges but demonstrated resilience and determination in overcoming them. Recently, Tyra transitioned to professional pickleball, where she has quickly made an impact.

Family Life

Tyra’s family has been foundational to her development as an athlete. Growing up alongside her sister Alicia, the sisters share a competitive and supportive bond. Their father’s legacy in professional tennis has deeply influenced their athletic drive. Tyra currently resides in Delray Beach, Florida, where she continues to train and compete at the highest levels. In addition to pickleball, she enjoys activities like hiking and is active in animal welfare initiatives, reflecting a well-rounded and community-oriented personal life.

Career

Tyra Black’s professional pickleball debut was in 2023, and she rapidly ascended rankings, claiming three gold medals at the Delray Beach Pickleball Open that same year. She plays for the Miami Pickleball Club in Major League Pickleball (MLP) and is recognized as one of the most formidable defensive players on tour. Tyra’s aggressive shot-making, combined with defensive solidity, helps her neutralize some of the top competitors, including world No. 1 Anna Leigh Waters.

Highlights of her career include a significant victory over Anna Leigh Waters at the 2023 PPA Takeya Showcase, ending Waters’s quest for a seventh consecutive triple crown. Tyra has amassed more than 20 medals on the PPA Tour, demonstrating consistency and competitive grit. Her playing style incorporates powerful serves, quick footwork, and an aggressive mindset with keen court awareness.

Tyra is sponsored by PIKKL and uses the Hurricane Pro pickleball paddle, which complements her style. She aims to sustain a long career in pickleball while continuing to inspire young athletes, especially women, to embrace the sport.

Net Worth

Hurricane Tyra Black’s net worth is not publicly available.

Player Profile