Tyra Black: Tennis Rebel Finds Her Calling in Pickleball
Former junior tennis phenom discusses leaving the sport, overcoming anger issues, and embracing the welcoming pickleball community
As the evening sun dipped below the palm trees surrounding the pickleball courts in Boca Raton, Florida, Tyra Black leaned back in her chair and flashed a radiant smile. The 22-year-old pickleball pro was relaxing after a friendly practice session with some of the sport's biggest names who also call South Florida home.
It was a scene that perfectly encapsulated the laid-back vibe of pickleball that first attracted Black to the sport after a decade competing in the ultra-competitive, cutthroat world of professional tennis.
"In tennis it's a really lonely sport, everyone is out for themselves," explained Black during her PPA Interview with Hannah Johns. "In pickleball it's like a big family. Even if you fight on the court, when you get off everyone's chilling and hanging out."
The tight-knit nature of the burgeoning sport has been a revelation for Black, who says she never felt at home on the pro tennis circuit despite ranking as high as No. 300 on the WTA Tour as a teenager.
After rocketing up the junior ranks and playing tournaments all over the world, she walked away from tennis in February. Burned out and disenchanted, Black was ready to leave the sport she had dedicated her life to since first picking up a racket at age 5.
Black made headlines in August when she shocked the pickleball world by taking down reigning World #1 16-year old Anna Leigh Waters in a thrilling match at the Takeya Showcase in New Port Beach, CA. She thrilled the crowd with an array of skilful shots showcasing her fluid movement, quick hands, and vicious backhand.
The stunning upset propelled Black into the limelight and served notice she was ready to contend with the world's best players. She has capitalized on that breakthrough performance by inking endorsement deals with several prominent brands, including an apparel partnership with Stack Athletics and a paddle agreement with the new company PIKKL USA.
During her interview, Black opened up about her challenging journey from tennis burnout to pickleball sensation this year. She also discussed the keys to her success and goals for 2024 and beyond.
1. Signing with PIKKL USA and New Paddle (0:00)
The interview began with Johns asking Black about her recent partnership with PIKKL USA, a new pickleball paddle company that launched its first product line on October 25th.
Black explained she is "absolutely thrilled" to join PIKKL USA and eager to represent the brand's community-focused values. "They want a paddle for everyone, so it's really community oriented and I just absolutely love that," she said.
According to Black, she spent significant time demoing various paddle models before settling on her new PIKKL blade. She described the paddle as offering "a lot of control," preferring feel over pure power at this stage of her development.
"I really love it a lot," Black stated about her new paddle. "A lot of people are going for more powerful paddles, but I feel like they already have a lot of power so I want something with a bit more control."
2. How PIKKL Found Black (2:29)
Johns then asked how PIKKL USA first contacted Black about a possible sponsorship deal. Black explained that her agent, Josh Fredman, handles her partnership discussions and arrangements.
Black said she has received many partnership offers directly through her social media accounts, especially after her breakthrough win at the Takeya Showcase. She reiterated the value of having an experienced agent to help navigate sponsorship opportunities.
3. Brand Partnership Landscape (3:18)
Expanding on the topic of endorsement deals, Johns questioned Black about the current brand partnership landscape in pickleball and whether companies are approaching players or vice versa.
According to Black, the situation varies based on the player and brand. She reiterated having an agent to advocate on her behalf has been tremendously helpful.
However, Black said many unknown companies also directly contact her through social media. She leans on her agent to differentiate serious offers from empty solicitations.
"Thankfully I have a great agent and he's just going out and getting a lot of stuff for me," Black explained. "But I've been getting a lot of messages on my socials, especially after I got my first gold in August."
4. Weird Social Media Requests (4:05)
That segued into Johns asking if Black has received any strange direct messages on social media related to potential partnerships or other inquiries.
Black laughed and said the only bizarre contacts she received so far have been related to tennis, not pickleball. She referenced the rampant gambling culture in tennis leading to inappropriate messages.
She recalled getting her first inappropriate message around age 14 and crying for two days. Black emphasized having a system of support to handle unseemly contacts.
5. Tennis Gambling Comments (4:29)
Expanding on the previous topic, Johns asked Black to elaborate on the types of messages tennis players receive related to gambling on matches.
Black declined to provide specifics, but firmly stated the contacts from gamblers are extremely inappropriate. She said the widespread gambling culture in tennis results in intense harassment of players.
"I cannot repeat most of the things that was said to me but it was really bad," Black admitted. "I can't even imagine where the top tennis pros are right now with all those messages. It must be absolutely insane."
6. Major Tennis Brands Coming to Pickleball (5:39)
Shifting the conversation to sponsorship, Johns questioned Black on when she expects major tennis brands like Nike to enter the pickleball market.
Black responded that she has heard major tennis brands are on the verge of investing in pickleball. She is eager for their involvement to help expand the sport and bring in more fans.
"I've heard that a lot of them are going to start to come in very soon so it's going to be amazing," Black said. "I can't wait for that to happen."
7. Tennis vs. Pickleball (5:58)
Johns followed up by asking Black to compare her experiences playing tennis versus pickleball. This allowed Black to elaborate on why she believes pickleball is superior.
"Mostly the social aspect, which is a huge thing," Black emphasized. "Tennis is a really lonely sport. In pickleball it's like a big family."
She added that tennis players refuse to practice together due to extreme competition, while pickleball encourages playing with others regardless of skill level.
Black also highlighted the team aspect of pickleball through doubles play. "In tennis you're all by yourself out there. In doubles you have someone right next to you," she noted.
8. Doors Opened After Takeya Showcase Win (8:15)
Johns pivoted the conversation by asking Black what opportunities have opened up for her following her impressive run in New Port Beach.
Black said "everything" changed after she defeated Waters at the Takeya Showcase. She cited new sponsorship deals, social media growth, and fans approaching her in public as some of the differences.
"It still is growing every day," Black stated about her popularity. "You get a bunch of messages all the time, people are coming up to me everywhere I go."
9. Finding Pickleball (11:23)
Delving into Black's origin story, Johns asked how she first discovered pickleball after years focused solely on advancing her tennis career.
Black revealed that James Ignatowich, who played tennis with her growing up, introduced her to the sport. She was home during the COVID-19 pandemic when Ignatowich insisted she try pickleball.
Though hesitant at first, Black eventually gave pickleball a chance and "absolutely fell in love with it." She highlighted the fun, social atmosphere that provides a stark contrast to the isolation of professional tennis.
10. End of Tennis Career (13:20)
Johns followed up by asking if trying pickleball signaled the end of Black's professional tennis career.
"I stopped playing tennis in mid-February," Black stated. "I came back home from the tournaments and I just did not play again after that."
Black cited mental and physical burnout along with lack of enjoyment as her reasons for moving on from tennis.
11. High Ranking in Tennis (14:41)
Curious about the extent of Black's success in tennis, Johns inquired about her highest world ranking in the sport.
"I was 300 in WTA and I was 11 in ITF Juniors," Black revealed. She called reaching No. 300 a major milestone that opened opportunities to play prominent overseas tournaments.
12. Lack of Enjoyment Playing Tennis Singles (14:56)
Johns noted Black's instant affinity for pickleball doubles despite her strong singles background in tennis. She asked Black to explain her lack of passion for playing singles.
"I never enjoyed playing singles," Black emphasized. "I love having someone next to me like in doubles. In singles you're out there all by yourself to figure it out."
She cited the teamwork, communication, and camaraderie in doubles as far more enjoyable than the lonely grind of singles tennis.
13. Family Support System (17:31)
Shifting topics, Johns asked if Black's parents are actively involved in supporting her burgeoning pickleball career.
Black explained that her father lives in Thailand working as a tennis coach, so she rarely sees him. Meanwhile her mother suffered significant injuries in a car accident last year limiting her mobility.
However, Black said her mother loves watching her matches online and has become a huge pickleball fan.
14. Sisters and Pickleball (18:13)
Johns followed up by inquiring whether Black's two older sisters play pickleball at all.
According to Black, her 35-year-old sister was a skilled junior tennis player but has limited time to play pickleball due to her career as a doctor.
Black's other sister, age 25, coaches tennis. Black hopes to convince her to try pickleball full-time. "I think she would be very good at pickleball and I've played with her a few times and she was insane," Black stated.
15. Pre-Pickleball Days (20:12)
Looking back to Black's pre-pickleball life, Johns asked how she spent her time when not traveling for tennis tournaments.
Black emphasized her world completely revolved around tennis seven days a week. She occasionally coached at her local club back home when not competing. Black also dabbled in reselling Nike apparel online as a hobby and side income source.
Overall though, Black stressed that tennis consumed her focus. "I was just full into tennis," she reiterated.
16. Pickleball Salary vs. Tennis Struggle (21:16)
Johns referenced the financial struggles many lower-ranked tennis players face trying to afford travel and expenses. She asked Black if having a pickleball salary makes life easier.
Black laughed and recalled losing money every week early in her pickleball career while adjusting to pro tournaments. She credits supporters who encouraged her to be patient and keep playing.
"It was hard. I was losing so much money the first few months playing," Black admitted. "But I love what I'm doing and that's my priority."
17. Dating on Tour (22:07)
A candid Black spoke openly when Johns broached the subject of dating while constantly traveling on the pro pickleball tour.
Black called it "a good question" she has fielded a lot recently. While deflecting the direct question, she alluded to the close-knit nature of the pickleball community.
"Everyone's just having fun, that's all I can say," Black stated with a coy smile.
18. Potential Partnership with Jimmy Miller (23:42)
Shifting topics, Johns asked Black about a rumor that she might partner with King Of The Court podcaster Jimmy Miller in doubles play next year.
Black enthusiastically endorsed the idea of teaming with Miller. However, she has only played against him in recreational games, not with him currently.
"I would love to play with Jimmy," Black declared. "Jimmy is my favorite person ever. He is absolutely hilarious."
19. Partnering with Lea Jansen (24:31)
Black confirmed recent reporting that she will partner next year with standout pro Lea Jansen.
She explained they first joined forces at a tournament earlier this year and immediately recognized tremendous chemistry. After playing well together against top opponents, Jansen quickly asked Black to team up in 2024.
"This is happening, it needs to happen," Black recalled responding gleefully when Jansen proposed the partnership. She cited Jansen's energetic style complementing her more reserved demeanor.
20. Evolving Partnership with Jansen (24:31)
Johns followed up by asking if Black expects her new partnership with Jansen to evolve as they play together throughout 2024.
"Definitely," Black responded. "We both realized our games have changed a lot in the last few months and we've learned so many new things."
But Black expressed confidence that greater familiarity through extensive practice time together will get them fully in sync. She is thrilled to have a consistent partner all season.
"It's hard to kind of get a rhythm so I'm super excited for my partnerships to stick with the same people all year long," Black emphasized.
21. Players That Influence Black's Game (26:13)
Curious about her learning process, Johns questioned which players Black watches closely to integrate new techniques and shots into her game.
"Kind of everyone," Black answered. "If I play someone and notice a really cool shot I'll just automatically start doing it."
She cited absorbing technical elements from studying fellow pros like Simone Jardim, Catherine Parenteau, and Anna Leigh Waters.
22. Visual Learner (27:12)
That prompted Johns to ask if Black considers herself a visual learner.
"Definitely," Black responded. "In tennis it was the same thing. I tried to copy more guys' shots than girls' because I had a really unconventional game."
Black said her tendency to absorb skills by watching others transfers perfectly to the varied technical styles on display in pickleball.
23. Hitting Partners (27:46)
Johns inquired who Black practices with regularly in South Florida to keep sharpening her skills.
Rattling off a lengthy list, Black said she mixes it up hitting with fellow young standouts like James Ignatpwich, Jorja Johnson, and JW Johnson. She also frequently trains with leading pros Anna Leigh Waters and Catherine Parenteau.
"There's just like an unlimited amount of people down there," Black said regarding the pickleball talent concentrated in her home region.
24. Local Rivalries (28:25)
Considering all the standout players in South Florida, Johns asked Black if any friendly rivalries motivate her during intense practice sessions.
Black said she has not developed any heated rivalries yet, but hopes linking up with Lea Jansen will bring out her competitive fire.
"Maybe if I play with Lea I'll be more like a tiger on court, be able to fight someone," Black stated. "We'll see."
25. Developing an On-Court Persona (28:58)
That led into a discussion about cultivating an intense on-court attitude or persona. Johns suggested that could help take Black's game to another level.
Black revealed she had massive anger issues earlier in her tennis career, even breaking 24 rackets in a year. She now aims to play with more composure and enjoyment while still maintaining motivation.
"In tennis I had a very bad attitude on the court," Black admitted. "Just picture Nick Kyrgios breaking his racket, screaming, cursing, anything you could imagine."
26. Fun Fact - Never Broken a Paddle (30:12)
When asked for a fun fact, Black said despite breaking numerous tennis rackets over the years, she has never smashed a pickleball paddle in anger.
She attributes maintaining composure to the happier mindset she enjoys in pickleball compared to her tennis days.
"You get in that mindset when you're doing what you're meant to be doing," Black stated. "I played tennis, I was not happy, and it showed on the court. I'm playing pickleball and I'm happy and that is also showing on the court."
27. One of the Rising Stars (31:28)
As the engaging podcast interview wound down, Johns commented that Black is considered one of the sport's brightest young talents. She asked what Black is most looking forward to in the coming year.
"Just playing," Black answered enthusiastically. "I'm just super excited for my partnerships, stick with the same people all year long."
At just 22, her best days on the pickleball court are likely still ahead. But Tyra Black has already established herself as one of the most promising prospects in the sport's history.
More importantly, after years struggling to find joy on the lonely road of professional tennis, she has discovered a supportive community and passion for competition in pickleball.
Don't be surprised if this humble tennis rebel becomes the smiling face of pickleball greatness in the years ahead.
- 0:00 Introduction - Tyra talks about signing with PIKKL USA
- 0:55 What is the new paddle like? Playing with Lea Jansen
- 2:29 How did PIKKL USA find you?
- 3:18 Brand Partnership Landscape
- 4:05 Weird Requests on Social
- 4:29 Bad Comments Due To Tennis Gambling
- 5:39 When Are Tennis World Sponsors Coming To Pickleball - like Nike?
- 5:58 Tennis vs Pickleball
- 8:15 As One Of The Tours Raising Stars - What doors have opened for you?
- 11:23 How did you find Pickleball?
- 13:20 Was that the end of your tennis career?
- 14:41 Career High Ranking In Tennis
- 14:56 Singles/Doubles - Why aren't you playing singles?
- 17:31 Are your parents involved at all?
- 18:13 What about your sisters? **
- 20:12 What were you doing before Pickleball?
- 21:16 Is it easier now as a contract pro pickleball player?
- 22:07 Now that you are traveling around on Tour, what is dating life like?
- 23:42 Are you playing doubles with Jimmy Miller next year?
- 24:31 How did you connect with Lea Jansen to play together next year?
- 25:27 You're still so new to pickleball. Are you two going to evolve as you play throughout next year?
- 26:13 Is there a pro that you are basing your game on?
- 27:12 Are you a visual learner?
- 27:46 Who are you practicing with at home?
- 28:25 Are there any players in South Florida where you have a little rivalry?
- 28:58 Developing an on court game face
- 30:12 Fun Fact
- 30:49 Have you broken a pickleball paddle?
- 31:00 You are a changed women
- 31:28 As one of the Tours brightest stars right now, what are you looking forward to next year?
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