Genie Bouchard on Professional Pickleball, Tennis, and Future Endeavors
From Wimbledon Glory to the Pickleball Court - Bouchard Embraces New Challenges
In a candid interview with TSN’s Mark Masters, former Wimbledon finalist Genie Bouchard opens up about her foray into professional pickleball, her enduring love for tennis, and her plans for the future. Reflecting on the differences between the sports, the travel lifestyle, and her journey over the past decade, Bouchard shares her insights and experiences with characteristic candor and enthusiasm.
Adjusting to Professional Pickleball
- Initial Shock: Bouchard felt out of her league initially, facing skilled, dedicated pickleball professionals.
- Skill Transition: Rewiring her brain to adapt to the distinct play style of pickleball has been challenging.
- Playing Style: Transitioning from a tennis baseliner to mastering the nuanced strategies of pickleball.
Summary: Bouchard describes her entry into professional pickleball as "wacky" and challenging, particularly due to the high skill level of seasoned players. She highlights the difficulty in transitioning from tennis instincts to pickleball techniques, especially the concept of 'dinking'. Despite the initial struggles, she is adapting and improving, though she admits it would have been easier without a tennis background.
Comparing Tennis and Pickleball Travels
- Less Intense Travel: Pickleball's U.S.-centric tournaments mean shorter, more manageable trips.
- Quality of Life: Enjoys exploring U.S. cities and the reduced strain of travel compared to tennis.
Summary: Bouchard finds the travel demands of pickleball much less intense than those of tennis. With shorter tournaments and a domestic focus, she appreciates the improved quality of life and the opportunity to explore different U.S. cities.
Balancing Tennis and Pickleball
- Tennis Return: Recent participation in ITF events and plans to compete in Toronto.
- Physical Adjustment: The physical toll of returning to tennis after pickleball was significant.
- Future Plans: Open to playing more tennis events while continuing with pickleball.
Summary: Despite the physical challenges, Bouchard remains committed to tennis, balancing it with her new pickleball career. She plans to play in Toronto and possibly more events later in the season, indicating her ongoing love for the sport.
Reflecting on Wimbledon 2014
- Memorable Run: Recalling her confident, undefeated march to the finals.
- Off-Court Attention: The increased attention and respect she received post-tournament.
- Lasting Impact: The significant changes in her life and career since then.
Summary: Bouchard vividly remembers her dominant run to the 2014 Wimbledon final and the transformative impact it had on her career and personal life. The newfound respect and media attention marked a significant shift, bringing both opportunities and challenges.
Perspective on Her Career and Future
- Gaining Perspective: Appreciating the highs and lows of her career with a mature outlook.
- TV and Media Work: Exploring opportunities in sports broadcasting and media.
- Unfinished Business: Keeping doors open in both pickleball and tennis while exploring new ventures.
Summary: As she turns 30, Bouchard reflects on her career with gratitude for both successes and setbacks. She is excited about her TV analyst work and other media opportunities, while still passionate about competing in both pickleball and tennis. Her balanced, forward-looking approach highlights her adaptability and resilience.
Conclusion
Genie Bouchard’s journey from a Wimbledon finalist to a professional pickleball player showcases her adventurous spirit and love for new challenges. As she navigates between sports and media opportunities, Bouchard remains committed to pursuing her passions, embracing every twist and turn in her multifaceted career.
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