In recent years, tennis legends like Andre Agassi, John McEnroe, and Andy Roddick have swapped their tennis racquets for pickleball paddles. Once seen as a leisurely game for retirees, pickleball is now surging in popularity across all generations. This sport has carved out its own niche and is gaining traction rapidly. McEnroe and Roddick initially approached pickleball from a hobby perspective, but their views on the sport have evolved as they promote it more actively.
During a lively episode of ‘Served,’ Roddick and McEnroe discussed the shifting landscape of tennis. They explored how pickleball is emerging as a leading sport. McEnroe humorously lamented that he flips to the Tennis Channel only to see pickleball matches, thinking, “oh my God we’re hitting the apocalypse here.” Roddick then posed a cheeky question: “I know my response is my response is ‘yes’. Would you rather get kicked in the n–s than watch a full pickleball match?” Their playful rivalry often spills onto social media ahead of pickleball events.
McEnroe enjoys pickleball but admits that Roddick’s question is a “tight one.” He responded, “I could watch some of it you know. Kick in the n–s hurts…Padel is a slight improvement.” Earlier this year, he stated that he prefers singles matches in pickleball for a better workout. He felt exposed during doubles matches, where dink shots—returns closer to the net—require players to lower their bodies to make contact. On the other hand, he still champions tennis as the premier racket sport.
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via Getty LONDON, ENGLAND – MAY 19: John McEnroe of the United States reacts during the mixed doubles match between John McEnroe of the United States and his partner Kim Clijsters of Belgium and Martina Navratilova of the United States and Jamie Murray of Great Britain during the Wimbledon No. 1 Court Celebration in support of the Wimbledon Foundation at All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club on May 19, 2019 in London, England. (Photo by Dan Istitene/Getty Images)
“Tennis is the king of all racket Sports and it’s been that way since you know a 100 years ago and it’s going to be that way in 100 years” He added, praising the gentlemen’s sport. McEnroe played tennis for 16 years, during which he won 77 titles. He reached the World No. 1 position in March 1980. With such an impressive resume, he certainly knows a thing or two about the legacy of the sport.
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Despite his long history in tennis, McEnroe is increasingly involved in pickleball tournaments. He actively promotes the sport on social media, even giving away signed paddles. He believes, “these other things if hopefully they we can all work together and it be better for all of us.” However, pickleball has become a new trend among many in Gen Z today and these legends may be the cause behind that.
Pickleball has emerged as the hottest trend amongst all generations.
Andre Agassi, who has been particularly influential in promoting pickleball, recently shared his views at UBS Australasia conference. He stated, “In the next five years, you’re gonna see, it is crazy,” highlighting the sport’s growing hype. His thrilling matches with John McEnroe have captivated audiences and solidified their reputations in this new arena. Their involvement has helped elevate pickleball from a casual game to a competitive sport.
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On December 2, the Kitchen Pickleball account proclaimed on Instagram that pickleball will become “the largest participatory sport in the WORLD in the next 3-5 years.” This statement reflects the enthusiasm surrounding the sport as it continues to evolve. The younger generation, especially Gen Z, is now leading the charge in pickleball’s popularity. The 2024 State of Pickleball report by SFIA reveals that the most represented age group in 2023 was 25-34 years old, with 2.3 million players. Over 1 million players were under 18, proving that pickleball is no longer just for older adults.
The sport’s blend of fun and fitness has made it particularly appealing to young people. With tennis legends embracing pickleball and former WTA stars like Maria Sharapova joining in, the competitive landscape is expanding rapidly. As pickleball continues to grow, it’s clear that this sport is more than just a trend; it’s becoming a movement that connects generations and fosters community engagement. What are your thoughts on the rise of Pickleball? Share your thoughts in the comments below.