From Tennis Pro to Pickleball Phenom: Salome Devidze's Remarkable Journey
How a former tennis player found her calling in the fast-growing sport of pickleball
In the world of professional pickleball, few stories are as captivating as that of Salome Devidze. This talented athlete has taken the sport by storm, transitioning from a successful tennis career to become one of pickleball's most formidable players. In this exclusive interview, Devidze shares her unique journey, training secrets, and vision for the future of the sport.
1. Salome's Story [1:01] Devidze's athletic journey began at the tender age of five when she started playing tennis in her native Georgia. Her talent quickly became apparent, leading to a move to Portugal and later to the United States. She trained at the prestigious Chris Evert Academy in Florida for eight years, turning pro at 16 and reaching a career-high ranking of 250 in the world for both singles and doubles.
2. From Tennis to RVs: An Unexpected Pivot [2:34] When the COVID-19 pandemic hit in 2020, Devidze's tennis career came to an abrupt halt. In a surprising twist, she found herself building RVs. This unexpected detour showcased her adaptability and willingness to embrace new challenges, traits that would serve her well in her future pickleball career.
3. Discovering Pickleball: Love at First Serve [5:10] Devidze's introduction to pickleball came through her brother in 2021. Initially skeptical, she quickly fell in love with the sport after playing her first singles game. The fast-paced nature and strategic elements of pickleball resonated with her competitive spirit, setting the stage for her rapid ascent in the sport.
4. The Importance of Coaching [8:54] Despite her natural talent, Devidze recognized the value of proper coaching in pickleball. She sought out training opportunities and began to study the techniques of top players, understanding that success in this new sport would require dedication and a willingness to learn.
5. The Decision to Go Pro [9:48] Devidze's transition to professional pickleball was swift and decisive. After winning her first gold medal just six weeks into playing the sport, she realized her potential and committed to pursuing pickleball at the highest level.
6. A Rigorous Training Routine [10:54] Devidze's approach to training is intense and comprehensive. She dedicates 3-4 hours daily to on-court practice and an additional 1-2 hours to fitness training. Her regimen includes a mix of pickleball-specific drills, Pilates, and sprints, all tailored to the unique demands of the sport.
7. A Week in the Life of a Pickleball Pro [12:56] During non-tournament weeks, Devidze maintains a strict training schedule, practicing five days a week. She emphasizes the importance of tapering her training as tournaments approach, focusing on specific sprints and footwork drills to maintain peak performance.
8. The Power of Nutrition: Embracing a Raw Plant-Based Diet [13:42] Devidze credits much of her endurance and recovery to her raw plant-based diet. She practices intermittent fasting on tournament days and emphasizes the importance of proper nutrition in maintaining her competitive edge.
9. Facing the Best: Playing Anna Leigh Waters at the Texas Open [16:21] Devidze reflects on her intense match against pickleball prodigy Anna Leigh Waters at the Texas Open. She speaks with admiration about Waters' skill and natural talent, highlighting the level of competition in professional pickleball. (Watch Match)
10. Career Highlights on the Pickleball Court [18:53] From winning her first gold medal to competing against top-ranked players like Catherine Parenteau, Devidze's pickleball career has been filled with memorable moments. She expresses gratitude for each experience, viewing her entire journey as one continuous highlight.
11. Thoughts on Improving the Professional Tour [20:00] Drawing from her tennis background, Devidze offers insights on potential improvements for the professional pickleball tour. She emphasizes the need for continual growth and adaptation, recognizing the unique challenges faced by a rapidly evolving sport in the age of social media.
12. The Line Call Conundrum [22:14] Devidze addresses one of pickleball's most contentious issues: line calls. She advocates for the implementation of professional line judges or electronic systems, similar to tennis, to ensure fair play and reduce controversies.
13. Navigating Controversy in Professional Sports [23:54] With grace and perspective, Devidze discusses how she handles controversies in the sport. She emphasizes the importance of focusing on personal growth and improvement rather than getting caught up in external noise.
14. The Paddle Test Incident [25:05] Devidze candidly shares her experience with a paddle testing incident, highlighting the challenges and pressures faced by professional players. She emphasizes the importance of maintaining confidence in one's equipment and abilities.
15. Equipment Evolution: Switching to Paddle Tek [27:23] In January, Devidze made the switch to Paddle Tek, specifically using the Anna Leigh Waters Signature Edition. She discusses the importance of finding the right equipment and her meticulous approach to paddle selection and customization.
16. The Game-Changing One Glove [29:24] Devidze enthusiastically discusses her partnership with One Glove, explaining how this specialized glove has improved her grip, reduced fatigue, and enhanced her overall game.
17. Advice for Aspiring Pickleball Pros [31:10] For those looking to turn pro, Devidze emphasizes the importance of passion and enjoyment. She advises aspiring players to love the process, practice diligently, and be prepared for both successes and setbacks.
18. The Mental Game: Preparing for Matches [32:19] Devidze reveals her mental preparation techniques, including a structured approach to managing emotions between points. She stresses the importance of staying present and not letting past points affect future performance.
19. Balancing Personal Life with Professional Pickleball [35:18] Acknowledging the challenges of maintaining relationships while on tour, Devidze emphasizes the importance of trust and mutual understanding with loved ones.
20. A Philosophy Shaped by Experience [39:34] Devidze's life philosophy has been shaped by her diverse experiences across different countries and cultures. She advocates for living in the present and appreciating each day.
21. Future Aspirations in Pickleball [40:26] Looking ahead, Devidze expresses her desire to remain involved in pickleball long-term. She aims to improve her mixed doubles game and is exploring opportunities in paddle design and teaching.
22. Embracing Technology: The Potential of AI in Sports [42:02] Devidze shows enthusiasm for technological advancements in sports, including the potential of AI to create virtual coaching experiences.
23. Leaving a Lasting Legacy [42:22] Devidze hopes to inspire others through her journey, proving that age is just a number and encouraging people of all backgrounds to embrace an active lifestyle.
24. Be the Change: A Call to Action [43:24] Echoing Gandhi's famous words, Devidze encourages others to be the change they wish to see in the world, both on and off the pickleball court.
25. Advocating for Animal Welfare and Environmental Consciousness [43:37] Devidze shares her passion for animal welfare and environmental conservation, tying her plant-based lifestyle to broader ethical and ecological considerations.
26. The Pickleball Community's Unprecedented Access (46:21) Devidze marveled at the unparalleled connection between professional players and fans in pickleball. Unlike her experiences in tennis, where fan interaction was limited, she now receives a constant stream of messages from enthusiasts. These range from technical questions about paddle grips to strategic advice for upcoming matches. Devidze embraces this openness, seeing it as a crucial element of the sport's charm and growth potential. She emphasized her commitment to transparency, expressing disdain for secrecy among professionals and advocating for sharing all aspects of her game, from paddle specifications to training routines.
27. Navigating Pickleball's Uncertain Future (48:25) The pro player offered insights into the ongoing debate about pickleball's future trajectory. Devidze highlighted the tension between maintaining traditional competitive structures and creating more entertainment-focused formats. She pointed out the complexities surrounding tournament structures, noting conflicting feedback from fans who simultaneously complain about predictable outcomes and celebrate seeing familiar faces in later tournament rounds. Drawing from her tennis background, Devidze advocated for fairness and equal opportunities, emphasizing standardized equipment testing, consistent officiating, and merit-based tournament progression.
28. The Weight of Being a Pickleball Ambassador (50:34) Devidze discussed the responsibility she feels as one of pickleball's prominent figures. She sees herself and her peers as brand ambassadors for the sport, carrying the weight of promoting and representing pickleball to the wider world. This role, she believes, extends beyond just playing the game to shaping its public perception and future direction. Looking ahead, Devidze contemplated how current pros might be viewed by future generations of players, expressing hope that their efforts in these formative years would be judged favorably.
29. Embracing the Free Agent Lifestyle (52:40) Explaining her choice to remain a free agent in professional pickleball, Devidze highlighted the flexibility this decision affords her. As one of the older players on the circuit, she values the ability to choose her tournaments and approach to the game. This freedom allows her to manage her schedule effectively and focus on competitions that align with her goals and physical capabilities. Devidze also offered insights into the behind-the-scenes work of tournament organizers, praising their tireless efforts to improve events continuously.
30. The "Wild West" of Pickleball Equipment (55:40) Devidze delved into the ongoing debates surrounding paddle testing and approval processes, recounting personal experiences with inconsistent test results. She described the current state of pickleball equipment as akin to the "Wild West," emphasizing the need for clearer regulations and standardization. However, she also questioned whether strict limitations on equipment innovation might be premature at this stage of the sport's development. Devidze advocated for a policy ensuring that any paddle used in professional play should be accessible to amateur players, promoting fairness and transparency in the sport.
31. Weighing In on Multiple Pro Tours (58:40) Sharing her experiences playing on both major professional pickleball tours, the APP and PPA, Devidze offered a balanced view of their strengths and areas for improvement. While she sees value in both organizations, she ultimately advocates for a unified tour, drawing parallels to discussions in professional tennis. Devidze observed how competition between the tours has driven innovation, citing improvements in video replay technology as an example. She sees this rivalry as potentially beneficial for the sport's overall development, even as she hopes for eventual unification.
32. The Impact of Gloves on Equipment Maintenance (1:01:27) Addressing a technical aspect of the game, Devidze discussed how using the One Glove has affected her paddle maintenance routine. She noted a significant reduction in the frequency of changing overgrips, attributing this to the improved grip and reduced sweat impact provided by the glove. This insight offers a glimpse into the practical considerations professional players must navigate to maintain peak performance.
33. A Call for Fan Engagement (1:02:42) In closing, Devidze emphasized her commitment to engaging with pickleball fans. She invited followers to connect with her on social media platforms, expressing enthusiasm for answering questions and sharing insights about the sport. This open approach to fan interaction underscores her dedication to growing pickleball's community and accessibility, reinforcing the unique bond between professionals and amateurs that defines the sport's current landscape.
- 1:01 Salome's Story
- 2:34 Salome Stops Playing Tennis and Starts Building RVs
- 5:10 Pickleball
- 8:54 Coaching
- 9:48 Going Pro
- 10:54 Training Routine
- 12:56 What does your week look like now
- 13:42 Nutrition - Raw Plant Based
- 16:21 Playing Anna Leigh Waters - Texas Open
- 18:53 Pickleball Highlight Moments
- 20:00 Thoughts On Improving The Tour
- 22:14 Line Calls
- 23:54 Controversy
- 25:05 Paddle Test
- 27:23 Paddle Tek
- 29:24 One Glove
- 31:10 Advice For Players Turning Pro
- 32:19 Mental Preparation
- 35:18 Balancing Personal with Pro Life
- 39:34 Philosophy On Life
- 40:26 Pickleball Career
- 42:02 Salome AI Bot
- 42:22 Your Legacy
- 43:24 Be the change you want to see in the world
- 44:05 Is there anything else you want to say about yourself
- 46:21 All Kinds Of Messages
- 48:25 The Future Of Pickleball
- 50:34 Promoting The Sport
- 52:40 A Free Agent
- 55:40 The Wild Wild West
- 58:40 Multiple Pro Tours
- 1:01:27 Over Grips
- 1:02:42 Outro
Passion, Perseverance, and Pickleball: Salome Devidze’s Story
In the rapidly evolving world of professional pickleball, few stories are as compelling as that of Salome Devidze. A former tennis pro turned pickleball phenomenon, Devidze's journey is a testament to the power of adaptability, passion, and relentless dedication.
Born in Tbilisi, Georgia, Devidze's athletic career began at the tender age of five when she first picked up a tennis racket. Her natural talent quickly became apparent, leading to a series of moves that would shape her future. From Portugal to Paris, Geneva, and finally to the United States, Devidze's pursuit of tennis excellence took her across the globe. She honed her skills at the prestigious Chris Evert Academy in Florida for eight years, turning pro at 16 and eventually reaching a career-high ranking of 250 in the world for both singles and doubles.
However, the grueling demands of professional tennis began to take their toll. As Devidze puts it, "There came a time where my body said just enough." The COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 provided an unexpected pause in her athletic career, during which she discovered an unusual new passion: building RVs. This brief detour showcased Devidze's adaptability and willingness to embrace new challenges, traits that would serve her well in her future pickleball career.
Devidze's introduction to pickleball came in the summer of 2021, courtesy of her brother. Initially skeptical, she quickly fell in love with the sport after playing her first singles game. "I played the first game of singles and I was like, oh, I'll do this for the rest of my life if I can," Devidze recalls. The fast-paced nature and strategic elements of pickleball resonated with her competitive spirit, setting the stage for a rapid ascent in the sport.
What followed was nothing short of remarkable. Just six weeks into playing pickleball, Devidze won her first pro gold medal. This early success convinced her to fully commit to pursuing pickleball at the highest level. Drawing from her extensive tennis background, Devidze quickly adapted to the nuances of pickleball, recognizing the value of proper coaching and dedicated training.
Devidze's approach to the sport is characterized by intense dedication and a comprehensive training regimen. She dedicates 3-4 hours daily to on-court practice and an additional 1-2 hours to fitness training. Her routine includes a mix of pickleball-specific drills, Pilates, and sprints, all tailored to the unique demands of the sport. This rigorous schedule is complemented by a raw plant-based diet, which Devidze credits for much of her endurance and recovery capabilities.
In her relatively short time in professional pickleball, Devidze has already faced off against some of the sport's top talents. She speaks with admiration about her intense match against pickleball prodigy Anna Leigh Waters at the Texas Open, highlighting the level of competition in professional pickleball. These experiences, along with victories against other top-ranked players, have solidified Devidze's position as a formidable force in the sport.
Drawing from her tennis background, Devidze offers valuable insights on potential improvements for the professional pickleball tour. She advocates for the implementation of professional line judges or electronic systems to ensure fair play and reduce controversies. Devidze also emphasizes the need for continual growth and adaptation, recognizing the unique challenges faced by a rapidly evolving sport in the age of social media.
Looking ahead, Devidze expresses her desire to remain involved in pickleball long-term. She aims to improve her mixed doubles game and is exploring opportunities in paddle design and teaching. Her enthusiasm extends to technological advancements in sports, including the potential of AI to create virtual coaching experiences.
Perhaps most importantly, Devidze hopes to leave a lasting legacy that transcends her on-court achievements. She aims to inspire others through her journey, proving that age is just a number and encouraging people of all backgrounds to embrace an active lifestyle. "I hope I can prove to a lot of people that please go out there, please be active," she says. "Take care of your body, love your body."
Devidze's philosophy, shaped by her diverse experiences across different countries and cultures, emphasizes living in the present and appreciating each day. She extends this mindset to her advocacy for animal welfare and environmental conservation, tying her plant-based lifestyle to broader ethical and ecological considerations.
In the end, Salome Devidze's story is not just about athletic achievement, but about personal growth, adaptability, and the pursuit of passion. From the tennis courts of Georgia to the pickleball arenas of America, her journey serves as an inspiration to athletes and non-athletes alike. As the sport of pickleball continues to grow and evolve, one thing is certain: Salome Devidze will be at the forefront, pushing boundaries and inspiring others to be the change they wish to see in the world, both on and off the court.
One of the most striking aspects of Devidze's experience in pickleball is the unprecedented level of access fans have to professional players. Unlike her days in tennis, where interaction with supporters was limited, Devidze now finds herself inundated with messages from pickleball enthusiasts. These range from technical questions about equipment to requests for strategic advice. Far from being overwhelmed, Devidze embraces this openness, seeing it as a crucial element of the sport's charm and a key driver of its growth.
This commitment to transparency extends to all aspects of her game. Devidze expressed disdain for secrecy among professionals, advocating instead for an open-book approach to everything from paddle specifications to training routines. She draws parallels to the tennis world, where even the training methods of legends like Roger Federer are now widely known. This approach, she argues, not only levels the playing field but ultimately benefits the sport as a whole.
As pickleball stands at a crossroads, Devidze offered insights into the ongoing debate about its future direction. She highlighted the tension between maintaining traditional competitive structures and creating more entertainment-focused formats. The complexities surrounding tournament structures were a particular point of discussion, with Devidze noting the conflicting feedback from fans who simultaneously complain about predictable outcomes and celebrate seeing familiar faces in later tournament rounds.
Drawing from her tennis background, Devidze advocated for a future that prioritizes fairness and equal opportunities. She emphasized the need for standardized equipment testing, consistent officiating, and merit-based tournament progression. However, she also acknowledged that her perspective might be influenced by her cultural background and previous sporting experience, questioning whether this approach is universally desired in the pickleball community.
The rapid proliferation of equipment manufacturers has led to what Devidze described as a "Wild West" scenario in the world of pickleball paddles. She recounted personal experiences with inconsistent test results and the resulting need to travel with multiple backup paddles to tournaments. While emphasizing the need for clearer regulations and standardization, Devidze also questioned whether strict limitations on equipment innovation might be premature at this stage of the sport's development.
One of the most contentious issues Devidze addressed was the use of equipment by sponsored players that isn't readily available to the public. She advocated strongly for a policy ensuring that any paddle used in professional play should be accessible to amateur players, promoting fairness and transparency in the sport. This stance underscores her view of professional players as ambassadors for pickleball, carrying the responsibility of shaping its public perception and future direction.
As one of the few players competing on both major professional pickleball tours, the APP and PPA, Devidze offered a unique perspective on their strengths and weaknesses. While she sees value in both organizations and acknowledges how their rivalry has driven innovation, she ultimately advocates for a unified tour. Drawing parallels to discussions in professional tennis about merging the ATP and WTA tours, Devidze believes that consolidation could lead to a stronger, more cohesive professional pickleball landscape.
Devidze's decision to remain a free agent in the professional ranks provides her with a flexibility she clearly values. As one of the older players on the circuit, she appreciates the ability to choose her tournaments and approach to the game. This freedom allows her to manage her schedule effectively and focus on competitions that align with her goals and physical capabilities.
Throughout the interview, Devidze's passion for growing the sport and connecting with fans was evident. She extended an open invitation for followers to engage with her on social media, expressing genuine enthusiasm for answering questions and sharing insights about pickleball. This approach underscores the unique bond between professionals and amateurs that currently defines the sport's landscape.
As pickleball continues its rapid ascent, voices like Devidze's will be crucial in shaping its future. Her blend of competitive experience, thoughtful analysis, and genuine enthusiasm for the sport offers valuable insights for fans, fellow professionals, and industry stakeholders alike. As the pickleball world grapples with questions of professionalization, standardization, and growth, Devidze's perspective serves as a compelling guideline for navigating the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
Salome Devidze: The Untold Story Behind the Intensity
From Court to Conversation: A Rare Glimpse into Salome Devidze’s Authenticity and Passion for Pickleball
Salome Devidze, known for her intense focus on the pickleball court, recently opened up in a rare interview, offering a fresh perspective on her journey, personality, and love for the sport. Fans who’ve only seen her competitive side were given a chance to experience the thoughtful, warm, and humorous Salome off the court. Through candid comments from interview listeners, Devidze’s persona was unpacked, revealing the humanity behind the steely competitor.
Salome Devidze has built a reputation as one of the fiercest competitors in professional pickleball, but as an interview revealed, there's much more to her than what meets the eye on the court. Her journey from tennis to pickleball, her dedication to the game, and her respectful interaction with fans and referees have earned her admiration both on and off the court. For those who tuned in to hear her speak, it was a refreshing and rare chance to get to know the person behind the intense athlete.
One fan, @Mr.DJones, shared his experience meeting Salome during her 2022 tournament in Mesa, AZ. “You were very polite,” he recalled, noting how the line judges during her championship match struggled to make fair calls. Despite these challenges, Devidze’s sportsmanship stood out. "You are usually the only one who thanks the refs and fans at the end of a match. So, now you know it doesn't go unnoticed," he added, shedding light on an admirable aspect of her character that many may not see.
The interview allowed fans to witness Salome's genuine side, showcasing her humility, grace, and deep understanding of the game. Her on-court persona, described by @timhardman4764 as “serious and not at all appealing,” transformed for many after hearing her speak. “I love that you brought out Salome's personality with your questions. Now, she is a very appealing human being to me… what a great person she is and an awesome pickleball player.”
Indeed, Devidze’s off-court demeanor struck a chord with many. The duality of her intense competitiveness and personal warmth became a key theme, as highlighted by fan @karlschwartz7933. As a former competitive tennis player and now a 74-year-old pickleball coach, he recognized her intelligence and grace. Her footwork and strategy during her victory over Anna Leigh Waters were particularly impressive to him. “Your footwork made that amazing victory possible… You were on balance and stepping into each shot at a higher level,” he noted, a true testament to her technical prowess.
Devidze's candid interview also touched on her hobby of building RVs, something that surprised many fans, like @kimleith1378, who had never expected a world-class athlete to enjoy such a hands-on and technical hobby. "Her hobby of building travel vans is very cool," Kim commented, further adding that she appreciated Salome's stance on pro players using the same paddles as the public. Her commitment to fairness and transparency in equipment use resonated with fans who admired her integrity.
However, the interview did more than just highlight her personality—it addressed some of the criticism she's faced throughout her career. @kathyzetterberg7340 was one such listener who admitted she wasn’t a fan of Salome’s initially. "Before this interview, I was not a fan of hers... now... I can respect her more and appreciate her style," she wrote, emphasizing how hearing Salome speak changed her perspective.
Another important topic discussed during the interview was the necessity of line judges in professional pickleball. @myra9495 was firm in her stance, “Line judges are a MUST in order for this sport to move forward. Professionals should never have to call their lines when money is on the line." It’s a sentiment echoed by many, including Devidze, who has been vocal about the need for more consistency and fairness in officiating.
As pickleball continues its meteoric rise in popularity, voices like Salome Devidze’s are shaping its future. Her blend of competitive spirit and thoughtful reflection makes her a key player in the sport's growth. She remains dedicated to her craft, both as an athlete and an advocate for positive change within the game. Whether it's improving officiating, promoting fairness in equipment, or connecting with fans, Salome is leading by example both on and off the court.
The interview allowed fans to see the full picture of Salome: a focused and tenacious athlete with a gracious, human side. As @sticharo put it, “What a contrast between on-court Salome and off-court Salome. She seems like a wonderful, thoughtful human.” As she continues her journey, Salome Devidze is poised to leave an enduring legacy in the sport of pickleball, one that fans and fellow players alike will remember for years to come. (Delving Deeper with Salome Devidze: Question List)
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