2025 MLP Orlando

 

Day 1

Columbus Sliders v New Jersey 5s at the MLP Orlando

0:00 WD: Parris Todd/Lea Jansen (COL) v. Anna Leigh Waters/Meghan Dizon (NJ) 17:24 MD: Andrei Daescu/CJ Klinger (COL) v. Will Howells/Zane Navratil (NJ) 41:38 MXD 1: Todd/Daescu (COL) v. Dizon/Navratil (NJ) 59:03 MXD 2: Jansen/Klinger (COL) v. Waters/Howells (NJ)

New York Hustlers v Atlanta Bouncers

WD: Helena Spiridis/Lingwei Kong (NY) v. Vivian Glozman/Victoria DiMuzio (ATL)
MD: Zane Ford/Donald Young (NY) v. Jaume Martinez Vich/Todd Fought (ATL)
MXD 1: Spiridis/Young (NY) v. DiMuzio/Fought (ATL)
MXD 2: Kong/Ford (NY) v. Glozman/Martinez Vich (ATL)

Texas Ranchers v Brooklyn Pickleball Team

WD: Etta Tuionetoa/Tina Pisnik (TX) v. Rachel Rohrabacher/Jackie Kawamoto (BKN)
MD: Christian Alshon/Eric Oncins (TX) v. Dekel Bar/Riley Newman (BKN)
MXD 1: Tuionetoa/Alshon (TX) v. Rohrabacher/Bar (BKN)
MXD 2: Pisnik/Oncins (TX) v. Kawamoto/Newman (BKN)

SoCal Hard Eights v Miami Pickleball Club

WD: Judit Castillo/Irina Tereschenko (SOC) v. Milan Rane/Mya Bui (MIA)
MD: Ryan Fu/Blaine Hovenier (SOC) v. Noe Khlif/Jay Devilliers (MIA)
MXD 1: Castillo/Fu (SOC) v. Rane/Khlif (MIA)
MXD 2: Tereschenko/Hovenier (SOC) v. Bui/Devilliers (MIA)

Live Blog

Day 2

SoCal Hard Eights v Orlando Squeeze

WD: Judit Castillo/Irina Tereschenko (SOC) v. Lacy Schneemann/Samantha Parker (ORL)
MD: Ryan Fu/Blaine Hovenier (SOC) v. Federico Staksrud/Dylan Frazier (ORL)
MXD 1: Castillo/Fu (SOC) v. Schneemann/Staksrud (ORL)
MXD 2: Tereschenko/Hovenier (SOC) v. Parker/Frazier (ORL)

Dallas Flash Pickleball v Columbus Sliders

WD: Tyra Black/Jorja Johnson (DAL) v. Parris Todd/Lea Jansen (COL)
MD: JW Johnson/Augie Ge (DAL) v. Andrei Daescu/CJ Klinger (COL)
MXD 1: Johnson/Johnson (DAL) v. Jansen/Klinger (COL)
MXD 2: Black/Ge (DAL) v. Todd/Daescu (COL)

Miami Pickleball Club v Utah Black Diamonds

Brooklyn Pickleball Team v New Jersey 5s

WD: Rachel Rohrabacher/Jackie Kawamoto (BKN) v. Anna Leigh Waters/Meghan Dizon (NJ)
MD: Dekel Bar/Riley Newman (BKN) v. Will Howells/Zane Navratil (NJ)
MXD 1: Rohrabacher/Bar (BKN) v. Dizon/Navratil (NJ)
MXD 2: Kawamoto/Newman (BKN) v. Waters/Howells (NJ)

Columbus Sliders v Carolina Hogs

WD: Parris Todd/Lea Jansen (COL) v. Kaitlyn Christian/Tamaryn Emmrich (CAR)
MD: Andrei Daescu/CJ Klinger (COL) v. Ben Johns/Collin Johns (CAR)
MXD 1: Todd/Daescu (COL) v. Emmrich/B. Johns (CAR)
MXD 2: Jansen/Klinger (COL) v. Christian/C. Johns (CAR)

Phoenix Flames v Orlando Squeeze

WD: Jessie Irvine/Genie Bouchard (PHX) v. Lacy Schneemann/Samantha Parker (ORL)
MD: Jack Sock/Tyson McGuffin (PHX) v. Federico Staksrud/Dylan Frazier (ORL)
MXD 1: Irvine/McGuffin (PHX) v. Schneemann/Staksrud (ORL)
MXD 2: Bouchard/Sock (PHX) v. Parker/Frazier (ORL)

New York Hustlers v Dallas Flash Pickleball 

WD: Helena Spiridis/Lingwei Kong (NY) v. Tyra Black/Jorja Johnson (DAL)
MD: Zane Ford/Donald Young (NY) v. JW Johnson/Augie Ge (DAL)
MXD 1: Kong/Ford (NY) v. Johnson/Johnson (DAL)
MXD 2: Spiridis/Young (NY) v. Black/Ge (DAL)

Atlanta Bouncers v Texas Ranchers 

WD: Vivian Glozman/Victoria DiMuzio (ATL) v. Etta Tuionetoa/Tina Pisnik (TEX)
MD: Jaume Martinez Vich/Todd Fought (ATL) v. Christian Alshon/Eric Oncins (TEX)
MXD 1: Glozman/Martinez Vich (ATL) v. Tuionetoa/Alshon (TEX)
MXD 2: DiMuzio/Fought (ATL) v. Pisnik/Oncins (TEX)

Day 3

Utah Black Diamonds v Orlando Squeeze
Brooklyn Pickleball Team v Orlando Squeeze
Miami Pickleball Club v Los Angeles Mad Drops
Carolina Hogs v Dallas Flash Pickleball 
Miami Pickleball Club v Brooklyn Pickleball Team
New Jersey 5s v Phoenix Flames
New Jersey 5s v Atlanta Bouncers

Day 4

St. Louis Shock v New Jersey 5s 

0:00 WD: Anna Bright/Kate Fahey vs Anna Leigh Waters/Meghan Dizon 25:23 MD: Hayden Patriquin/Gabe Tardio vs Will Howells/Zane Navratil 43:15 MxD: Anna Bright/Gabe Tardio vs Meghan Dizon/Zane Navratil 53:02 MxD: Kate Fahey/Hayden Patriquin vs Anna Leigh Waters/Will Howells

Hayden Patriquin and Anna Leigh Waters Paddle Tap Controversy

Columbus Sliders v Utah Black Diamonds

WD: Parris Todd/Lea Jansen (COL) v. Allyce Jones/Genie Erokhina (UT)
MD: Andrei Daescu/CJ Klinger (COL) v. Connor Garnett/Tyler Loong (UT)
MXD 1: Todd/Daescu (COL) v. Jones/Garnett (UT)
MXD 2: Jansen/Klinger (COL) v. Erokhina/Loong (UT)

Brooklyn Pickleball Team v St Louis Shock

WD: Rachel Rohrabacher/Jackie Kawamoto (BKN) v. Anna Bright/Kate Fahey (STL)
MD: Dekel Bar/Riley Newman (BKN) v. Hayden Patriquin/Gabe Tardio (STL)
MXD 1: Kawamoto/Newman (BKN) v. Fahey/Patriquin (STL)
MXD 2: Rohrabacher/Bar (BKN) v. Bright/Tardio (STL)

Dallas Flash Pickleball v Chicago Slice 

WD: Jorja Johnson/Tyra Black (DAL) v. Callie Smith/Vivienne David (CHI)
MD: JW Johnson/Augie Ge (DAL) v. James Ignatowich/Max Freeman (CHI)
MXD 1: Johnson/Johnson (DAL) v. David/Ignatowich (CHI)
MXD 2: Black/Ge (DAL) v. Smith/Freeman (CHI)

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WD: Anna Leigh Waters/Meghan Dizon (NJ) v. Catherine Parenteau/Jade Kawamoto (LA)
MD: Will Howells/Zane Navratil (NJ) v. Quang Duong/AJ Koller (LA)
MXD 1: Dizon/Navratil (NJ) v. Parenteau/Duong (LA)
MXD 2: Waters/Howells (NJ) v. Kawamoto/Koller (LA)

WD: Callie Smith/Vivienne David (CHI) v. Etta Tuionetoa/Tina Pisnik (TEX)

MD: James Ignatowich/Max Freeman (CHI) v. Christian Alshon/Eric Oncins (TEX)
MXD 1: David/Ignatowich (CHI) v. Pisnik/Oncins (TEX)
MXD 2: Smith/Freeman (CHI) v. Tuionetoa/Alshon (TEX)

Agassi’s Playing the U.S. Open… and We’re Kinda Coaching Him?

 

Andre Agassi's Pickleball Passion: A New Era for the Sport

From Playing with Pros to Growing the Game, Agassi's Involvement Signals a Bright Future for Pickleball

In a recent episode of the "Bad Calls" podcast, hosts Travis Rettenmaier and Graham D’Amico offered an inside look at their exhilarating experience playing pickleball with tennis icon Andre Agassi. Recorded in St. Petersburg after a memorable trip to Las Vegas, the episode crackled with enthusiasm as the hosts explored Agassi’s surprising immersion in the sport, his upcoming appearance at the US Pickleball Open, and the broader shifts shaping pickleball’s competitive landscape. With Agassi teaming up with rising star Anna Leigh Waters and lending his star power to grow the game, the podcast painted a vivid picture of a sport on the cusp of a new era. This article dives into the key moments from the episode, blending the hosts’ personal anecdotes with sharp analysis of pickleball’s evolving dynamics.

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0:34 Playing with Andre Agassi a Couple of Weeks Ago

• Experience of playing with Agassi

• Agassi’s enthusiasm and humility

• Surreal moment of interacting with a childhood hero

Rettenmaier and D’Amico kicked off the episode still buzzing from their time on the court with Andre Agassi in Las Vegas. The tennis legend, known for his eight Grand Slam titles, has become an unabashed pickleball devotee, texting Rettenmaier late at night with questions about technique and sending footage for critique. “It’s surreal,” Rettenmaier said, recalling how he once wore Agassi’s signature gear as a kid, only to now find himself advising the icon. Agassi’s humility stood out—he approached the game with a beginner’s zeal, asking about his off-arm positioning and soaking up feedback. D’Amico, meanwhile, connected with Agassi’s cerebral approach, marveling at how a player of such athletic pedigree overthinks the game much like he does. The hosts painted Agassi as a “pickleball junkie,” a term D’Amico coined with affection, highlighting his genuine love for the sport and a sense of duty to give back to it.

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2:32 US Pickleball Open

• Agassi’s participation with Anna Leigh Waters

• Predictions for their performance

• Notable teams and potential challengers

The conversation shifted to the US Pickleball Open, where Agassi will pair with Anna Leigh Waters in mixed doubles, a pairing that has the pickleball world abuzz. Rettenmaier, who plans to assist as an unofficial coach, believes they have a real shot at the title, despite Agassi’s relative inexperience. “He’s hyperaggressive,” he noted, predicting a game plan heavy on drives rather than the patient dinking typical of elite pickleball. Waters, a seasoned pro accustomed to playing with her mother, Leigh, will likely anchor the duo with her finesse. The hosts scouted the field, naming top teams like Monroe and Megan Fudge, Bobby Oshiro and Andre Mick, and Susannah Barr and Lane as potential threats. D’Amico emphasized the event’s broader impact: ticket sales, sluggish due to fewer pros, are now surging thanks to Agassi’s star power. The Open, they agreed, has struck gold by showcasing this unlikely partnership.

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8:46 Anna Leigh vs Andre Agassi

• Possibility of a private singles match

• Logistics and energy considerations

A tantalizing aside emerged when the hosts speculated about a private singles showdown between Waters and Agassi. “That would be cool,” Rettenmaier mused, though he quickly tempered the idea with practical concerns. Waters will arrive at the Open fresh off Major League Pickleball (MLP) Orlando, her schedule packed and energy finite. Agassi, meanwhile, will be grinding through practice, nerves jangling as he adapts to competitive pickleball. Still, the notion captivated them—a clash pitting Waters’ youthful precision against Agassi’s raw power. While unlikely during the Open, the hosts’ excitement underscored the allure of such a matchup, even if only as a fantasy for now.

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9:14 Growing The Game

• Agassi’s efforts to promote pickleball

• Involvement in slams and charitable initiatives

• Agassi Sports Entertainment and its focus on racket sports

Agassi’s influence extends beyond the court, a point the hosts drove home with admiration. His participation in high-profile events like the Open and lucrative slams is just the start; Rettenmaier highlighted a “charitable direction” in Agassi’s approach, a desire to repay a debt to racket sports. Through Agassi Sports Entertainment, he’s channeling resources into pickleball, positioning it as a cornerstone of his ventures. D’Amico recounted a late-night text from Agassi—sent at 10:30 p.m. after a session with a 5.5-level player—brimming with “sheer exuberance.” The hosts see Agassi as a catalyst, his fame and passion poised to elevate pickleball’s profile and inspire new players, pros and amateurs alike.

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10:33 MLP Orlando

• Preview of the MLP event in Orlando

• Team compositions and predictions

• Impact of side-out scoring vs. rally scoring

With MLP Orlando looming, the hosts previewed the event they’ll attend as both commentators and fans. The Orlando Squeeze, buoyed by a home crowd and an expanded grandstand, are a team to watch, though Rettenmaier leaned toward perennial contenders like the Ranchers, Shock, and Fives. Team rosters, however, remain a moving target, with player switches muddying predictions. The hosts debated the shift from rally to side-out scoring, concluding it’s unlikely to shake up outcomes significantly. Their excitement was palpable—Orlando promises top-tier matchups and a festive atmosphere, a perfect stage for pickleball’s growing spectacle.

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10:29 Brooklyn Pickleball Club

• Details about the Brooklyn Pickleball Club

• Confusion around team changes

• Kevin Durant’s involvement

The Brooklyn Pickleball Club sparked a mix of intrigue and exasperation. Featuring players like Rachel Rohrabacher, Riley Newman, and Jade Kawamoto, the team has potential, yet its identity remains hazy amid constant roster tweaks. D’Amico lamented the confusion, a sentiment echoed by Rettenmaier, who noted Kevin Durant’s stake in the club as a boon for pickleball’s reach, especially in Washington, D.C., where Durant grew up. The NBA star’s involvement, they agreed, could draw new eyes to the sport, even if the team’s revolving door frustrates fans trying to keep up.

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13:04 Same Teams, Players Switching All Around

• Difficulty in following team and player changes

• Concerns about team disparity and lopsided matches

The hosts didn’t mince words about the chaos of player movement across MLP teams. “It’s impossible,” D’Amico said, struggling to recall who’s where. This flux, they warned, risks alienating fans and creating lopsided matches, with powerhouse squads like the Shock and Ranchers potentially steamrolling weaker ones like the Hustlers, whom Rettenmaier predicted might go winless. The disparity, they feared, could dampen the league’s appeal over the next year or two unless balance improves—a challenge MLP must tackle as it matures.

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14:40 The Girlies Split

• Split between Anna Bright and Rachel Rohrabacher

• Upcoming matchups and potential tension

A juicy subplot emerged with the breakup of Anna Bright and Rachel Rohrabacher, once a dynamic duo dubbed “the girlies.” Their split, followed by a rescheduled Orlando matchup, promises drama. “There’s tension,” Rettenmaier said, noting their close friendship and shared branding as a team poised to challenge the elite. D’Amico predicted a fierce contest, with both players eager to prove themselves post-partnership. The hosts plan to tune in, alarms set, for what could be one of the event’s most compelling battles.

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16:32 MLP Changes

• Changes in MLP rules regarding waiver periods and trades

• Impact on teams and player development

MLP’s rule tweaks drew scrutiny, with waiver periods shrinking from four to two and trade money now flowing to teams rather than the league. Rettenmaier saw the latter as a plus—teams losing a fifth or sixth roster player to a rival at least get compensated, easing the sting of development lost. Yet he questioned the wisdom of allowing such poaching, arguing it discourages investment in emerging talent. The hosts viewed these shifts as steps toward stability, though the league’s growing pains remain evident.

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17:44 Moms/Parents

• Increasing involvement of parents in pickleball

• Comparison to tennis and concerns about pressure on juniors

The rise of “pickleball moms” and parents caught the hosts’ attention, echoing tennis’s well-trodden path. D’Amico cited pros like Leigh Waters and Julie Johnson, alongside newer figures like Tina Fehees’ mom, as examples of growing parental presence. Rettenmaier, however, grew somber recalling junior matches where parents berated kids, a scene all too familiar from tennis. “It burns kids out,” he said, lamenting the pressure tied to money and opportunity. His own mother, a former top-100 tennis player, offered a positive counterpoint—she coached him with insight, not coercion—but he feared such balance is rare as pickleball professionalizes.

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22:54 Anna Bright - New Wave of Players, Left/Right Side

• Anna Bright’s analysis of steady vs. chaotic play

• Evolution of playing styles in men’s doubles

Anna Bright’s Twitter thread on men’s doubles sparked a deep dive into pickleball’s tactical evolution. She posited a shift from the steady play of Ben and Collin Johns to a chaotic style led by Matt Wright and Riley Newman, with a new wave—Hayden Patriquin, Christian Alshon—pushing the envelope further. Steady left-siders like Federico Starks and Andre Daescu, Bright argued, now pair with chaotic right-siders, flipping traditional roles. Rettenmaier praised her insight, suggesting two chaotic players might eventually dominate as skill levels rise. D’Amico saw it as circumstantial, a mix of old guard and bold newcomers, but both agreed the meta is shifting fast.

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26:53 What is This?

• Review of Salt Stick and Supercush grips

• Humorous commentary on product branding

In a lighter moment, the hosts reviewed sponsor gear: Salt Stick electrolyte chews and Supercush grips. Rettenmaier raved about Salt Stick’s mixed berry flavor—“delicious,” he declared—though he dodged health claims, joking his daughter once mistook them for candy. The grips, from a biking company, earned props for style and stickiness, despite a branding flub (Supercush, not “Superass”). Their candid takes—praising quality, mocking names—offered a playful break from the episode’s intensity, reinforcing their commitment to “keep it real” with listeners.

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32:15 Outro

• Closing remarks and teaser for the next episode

The episode wrapped with gratitude and a tease: a recap of MLP Orlando awaits in the next installment. Rettenmaier, ever the joker, vowed to snag US Open tickets as Agassi’s “assistant coach,” complete with towels and a whistle. D’Amico chimed in, envisioning jerseys and sideline antics. Their banter—self-aware and irreverent—left fans eager for more, a fitting cap to a podcast brimming with insight and personality.

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Article Summary

The "Bad Calls" episode with Travis Rettenmaier and Graham D’Amico was a love letter to pickleball’s present and future, anchored by Andre Agassi’s transformative presence. From their awe at playing with a childhood hero to sharp breakdowns of the US Open and MLP Orlando, the hosts blended personal tales with expert takes. Agassi’s passion—evident in late-night texts and his Open debut with Anna Leigh Waters—emerged as a beacon for the sport’s growth, amplified by his charitable bent and Agassi Sports Entertainment. Beyond Agassi, the podcast tackled pickleball’s challenges: team chaos, parental pressures, and shifting styles, all signaling a sport in flux. With humor and candor, Rettenmaier and D’Amico captured pickleball’s pulse, leaving no doubt that its best days, fueled by legends and new blood alike, lie ahead.

0:34 Playing with Agassi a couple of weeks ago 2:32 US Pickleball Open 8:46 Anna Leigh vs Agassi 9:14 Growing The Game 10:33 MLP Orlando 10:29 Brooklyn Pickleball Club 13:04 Same Teams, Players switching all around 14:40 The Girlies Split 16:32 MLP Changes 17:44 Moms/Parents 22:54 Anna Bright - New Wave Of Players, Left/Right Side 26:53 What is this? 32:15 Outro

Andre Agassi: Pickleball Lit a Fire in Me

 

Andre Agassi: From Tennis Legend to Pickleball Enthusiast

Exploring the Growth, Culture, and Future of Pickleball Through the Eyes of a Champion

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Introduction

Andre Agassi, a name etched in tennis history with eight Grand Slam titles and a rebellious spirit that captivated fans worldwide, has found a new passion that’s reshaping his life: pickleball. In a revealing episode of the Bad Calls podcast, hosted by Travis Rettenmaier and Graham D’Amico, Agassi opens up about his unexpected journey into this fast-growing sport. Recorded in sunny Las Vegas, the conversation delves into how Agassi discovered pickleball during the lockdown, why it became more than a pastime, and his candid thoughts on its growth, culture, and competitive potential. He shares personal anecdotes about playing with his wife, Steffi Graf, his investments in pickleball ventures like DUPR, Lifetime, and JOOLA, and how the sport’s mental and physical demands compare to tennis. This article takes you through Agassi’s insights, offering a deep dive into how a tennis icon is embracing—and helping to shape—the future of pickleball.

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1. How He Discovered Pickleball During Lockdown

Time Code: [0:41 - 1:29]

• Agassi first encountered pickleball about three and a half years ago during the COVID-19 lockdown, seeking activities to do with his family.
• With courts at home and everyone “trapped in the house,” he played with his kids, appreciating how it bridged generational gaps.
• His casual interest turned serious when he agreed to a televised ESPN challenge alongside Andy Roddick against Michael Chang and John McEnroe.

Andre Agassi’s introduction to pickleball was a product of circumstance, born during the isolating days of the COVID-19 lockdown. With the world on pause and traditional tennis sidelined, Agassi turned to the courts in his own backyard for a way to stay active and connect with his children. He found pickleball’s accessibility appealing, noting how “generations could bond over it.” However, what began as a family pastime took a pivotal turn when he accepted an ESPN challenge. Pairing with Andy Roddick to face off against Michael Chang and John McEnroe, Agassi’s competitive instincts kicked in. He recalls debating the decision, knowing that saying yes meant he’d “start to care about it.” That moment marked the beginning of his deeper engagement with pickleball, transforming a casual lockdown activity into a pursuit that would soon dominate his attention and energy.

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2. Why It Became More Than Just a Hobby

Time Code: [17:47 - 20:19]

• Agassi’s drive to improve stems from not yet reaching his ceiling, fueling his ongoing motivation to master the sport.
• Pickleball provided a “cheat code” to physical and mental renewal, helping him regain fitness and purpose after a period of stagnation.
• The sport’s authentic enjoyment sparked a positive cycle of community, competition, and personal growth.

For Agassi, pickleball transcended its initial role as a hobby due to its profound impact on his life. He admits to a relentless desire to push his limits, stating, “I’ve always been motivated at seeing what’s the most I can do.” This mindset keeps him hooked, as he sees endless room for improvement in his game. Beyond the technical allure, pickleball arrived at a critical juncture when Agassi, then in his early 50s, felt disconnected from physical goals after years of prioritizing his body for tennis. The sport became a lifeline, offering endorphins, a competitive outlet, and a path to better health—both physically and mentally. Travis Rettenmaier highlights this shift, noting how Agassi transformed from being out of shape to thriving, a change sparked by pickleball’s “positive cycle.” Agassi’s loyalty to the sport grew from this authentic enjoyment, turning it into a passion he couldn’t ignore.

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3. His Honest Thoughts on the Sport’s Growth, Culture, and Competitive Ceiling

Time Code: [4:11 - 5:25]

• Agassi defends pickleball’s legitimacy, arguing its inclusivity and community benefits outweigh critics who dismiss it as “not a real sport.”
• He marvels at the skill of top players like Ben Johns and Anna Leigh Waters, suggesting the competitive ceiling is still evolving.
• He envisions a bright future, with potential for global expansion, Olympic inclusion, and college scholarships.

Agassi is a fierce advocate for pickleball, passionately countering skeptics—often tennis players—who question its credibility. He emphasizes its transformative power, stating, “It’s doing a bunch of good for a ton of people.” Unlike tennis, which can intimidate newcomers, pickleball’s low entry barrier invites everyone to participate, fostering a vibrant, inclusive culture. Agassi also recognizes the sport’s competitive depth, praising the mastery of pros like Ben Johns and Anna Leigh Waters. He challenges detractors to “put their money where their mouth is,” asserting that the skill required at the highest levels is undeniable. Looking ahead, Agassi sees pickleball’s growth as inevitable, predicting it could become an Olympic sport and trickle into college programs. His optimism is grounded in its addictive appeal and rapid global spread, a “virus” he believes will continue to infect new regions and players.

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4. Playing (and Drilling) with Steffi Graf

Time Code: [36:06 - 41:08]

• Agassi and Steffi Graf play together three times a week when schedules allow, balancing their shared love for the sport.
• Their styles differ: Agassi focuses on stabilizing his fundamentals, while Graf pushes the edges with aggressive, instinctive shots.
• They thrive as partners rather than opponents, as Graf’s competitiveness softens against Agassi, leading to a mutual spiral if they face off.

Pickleball has become a shared passion for Agassi and Steffi Graf, a tennis legend in her own right with 22 Grand Slam titles. The couple hits the court together several times a week, though Agassi notes it depends on their “balancing act” of travel and commitments. Their on-court dynamic is a study in contrasts: Agassi, the analyst, seeks a reliable foundation, while Graf, trusting her natural talent, plays on the edge—her dinks and slices often teetering between brilliance and risk. Agassi admires her tenacity, recalling how she brushed off his apologies for targeting her in practice, insisting, “Stop apologizing if I can’t defend that.” As partners, they complement each other, but as opponents, Graf’s reluctance to fully compete against him leads to a playful decline in performance for both. This synergy underscores how pickleball has deepened their bond, offering a fun yet challenging outlet they navigate together.

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5. His Investment in the Future of Pickleball Through DUPR, Lifetime, and JOOLA

Time Code: [42:06 - 42:56]

• Agassi has invested in DUPR (Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating), Lifetime (a fitness and recreation giant), and JOOLA (a pickleball equipment brand), reflecting his belief in the sport’s growth.
• As chairman of Lifetime’s tennis and pickleball board, he supports initiatives like nationwide open play events to boost participation.
• He aims to elevate pickleball to Olympic status and enhance its visibility, suggesting improvements like better TV angles and tournament structures.

Agassi’s commitment to pickleball extends into its business ecosystem, where he’s a key player in shaping its future. His investments in DUPR, Lifetime, and JOOLA stem from a conviction that the sport’s growth is “not a gamble”—it’s a sure bet. At Lifetime, where he serves as chairman of the tennis and pickleball committee, Agassi champions initiatives like the nationwide open play event on April’s “pickleball month,” designed to ignite participation across 750 courts. His work with JOOLA reflects a hands-on approach to equipment innovation, while DUPR aims to refine player ratings and matchmaking. Agassi’s vision is bold: he dreams of pickleball in the Olympics, supported by college scholarships and a professional circuit akin to tennis. He also offers practical ideas, like raising camera angles for better TV viewing and restructuring tournaments to build toward climactic “slams,” signaling his intent to professionalize and globalize the sport he loves.

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6. The Real Mental and Physical Toll of Tennis—and How Pickleball Changed That

Time Code: [3:16 - 4:06]

• Tennis is physically demanding, leaving Agassi tired but mentally energized, while pickleball’s narrow margins make it mentally exhausting yet less abusive on the body.
• Pickleball requires a delicate balance of urgency and calm, a shift from tennis’s power-driven play that Agassi finds both challenging and refreshing.
• The sport has revitalized him, offering a healthier outlet for competition without the physical toll of tennis.

Agassi’s comparison of tennis and pickleball reveals stark contrasts in their mental and physical demands. He describes tennis as the “most demanding racket sport” physically, emotionally, and mentally, a grueling endeavor that fueled his career but left lasting wear. After playing tennis, he felt physically drained yet mentally sharp, ready for a business meeting. Pickleball, however, flips this dynamic: its smaller court and tighter margins demand constant mental engagement—“every ball is under so much stress”—leaving him exhausted in a different way. The need to temper urgency with precision, unlike tennis’s reliance on raw power, was initially counterintuitive but ultimately liberating. Agassi notes that tennis “abuses” his body with its rotational strain, while pickleball offers a gentler alternative that still satisfies his competitive drive. This shift has been a game-changer, restoring his physical health and providing a mental outlet that aligns with his current life stage.

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Summary

Andre Agassi’s transition from tennis legend to pickleball enthusiast, as shared on the Bad Calls podcast, is a compelling story of rediscovery and reinvention. What started as a lockdown diversion with his family evolved into a profound passion, sparked by a televised challenge and fueled by his relentless pursuit of improvement. Agassi champions pickleball’s growth and inclusive culture, seeing it as a sport with untapped competitive potential and a bright future—possibly even Olympic glory. His playful yet intense partnership with Steffi Graf on the court highlights how pickleball has enriched their relationship, while his investments in DUPR, Lifetime, and JOOLA reflect a strategic commitment to its expansion. Contrasting tennis’s physical toll with pickleball’s mental rigor, Agassi credits the latter with revitalizing his well-being, offering a fresh competitive outlet without the bodily strain. Through his journey, Agassi reveals pickleball’s power to connect, challenge, and inspire—a sport that’s not just a game, but a new chapter for a champion.

Let’s Talk UPA Pay Restructure & How that Affects the Pros: King Of The Court Podcast

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In-Depth Analysis of the King Of The Court Podcast Episode

Introduction

The King Of The Court Podcast, hosted by Jimmy Miller and Tyler Loong, has become a vital platform for discussing the intricacies of professional pickleball, especially given its rapid growth and organizational changes. This episode focuses on significant developments within the United Pickleball Association (UPA), formed by the merger of the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) Tour and Major League Pickleball (MLP). The discussion centers on four key topics: the "Tour Wars" recap, UPA's proposed pay structure changes, and the hosts' personal perspectives, offering a detailed look at the sport's current challenges and future trajectory.

From background research, UPA is the parent company of PPA and MLP, with a merger announced in September 2023 backed by a $50M investment, aiming to streamline schedules and unify professional formats (Carvana PPA Tour and Major League Pickleball Announce Full Merger to Form a Unified Professional Pickleball Organization | PPA Tour). This context is crucial for understanding the episode's discussions, particularly around financial sustainability and player contracts.

Topic 1: Tour Wars Recap (Time Code: 0:46)

• Discussion Points:
  • The "Tour Wars" refer to the period when PPA and MLP competed fiercely for top players, likened to a "divorce" with each offering lucrative guaranteed contracts.
  • Players signed three-year deals, with significant salary increases, described as a bidding war where "mom" (PPA) and "dad" (MLP) tried to outbid each other.
  • Post-merger, UPA asked players to take pay cuts of up to 40% to ensure sustainability, with most agreeing, but some like Julian Arnold, Lauren Stratman and Vivian Glozman declining and opting out of MLP.
• Analysis: This segment highlights a tumultuous period in pickleball history, where player salaries inflated due to competition, but the merger necessitated financial adjustments. The analogy of parental bidding wars underscores the intensity, with players benefiting initially but facing uncertainty post-merger. The resistance from players like Arnold and Stratman indicates a divide, with some prioritizing individual financial security over collective league needs. This reflects broader tensions in sports leagues during mergers, where player trust and communication are tested.

Topic 2: UPA Pay Structure (Time Code: 3:38)

• Discussion Points:
  • UPA proposes dividing remaining guaranteed contracts over years (e.g., $300,000 over three years becomes $100,000 annually), ensuring no loss of guaranteed income.
  • Remainder goes to a prize money pool, with slams offering $26-30 million, aiming to create motivation and storylines for TV executives.
  • Appearance fees based on rankings, with top players earning up to $10,000 per event and those outside top 20 getting around $1,000, refreshed every six months.
• Analysis: The shift to a prize money model is strategic, aiming to align with television demands for competitive narratives, as seen in comparisons to NBA finals or tennis Grand Slams. The $26-30 million prize pool is significant, especially compared to past figures like APP's $2.7 million, suggesting a push for growth (United Pickleball (UPA) | Parent Company of PPA Tour & MLP). However, this could widen financial gaps, with top players like Ben Johns benefiting while others struggle, potentially affecting league depth. The appearance fee structure, while incentivizing rankings, may pressure players to diversify skills across singles, doubles, and mixed, raising concerns about fairness for specialists.

Topic 3: Jimmy’s Perspective (Time Code: 8:37)

• Discussion Points:
  • Jimmy sees benefits for top players (better than 25th rank) due to higher championship prize money.
  • Criticizes current setups, like lack of replays and referees on side courts, advocating for uniform conditions across all courts.
  • Emphasizes transparent seating and point systems, crucial as earnings tie to performance, and questions combining singles, doubles, and mixed for rankings.
  • Expresses concern over trust, citing past broken promises during Tour Wars and current strong-arming tactics by UPA, like threats of reduced personal promotion.
• Analysis: Jimmy's perspective highlights operational fairness, crucial under a performance-based model. Uniform court conditions, including replay technology, are essential for equity, especially as side court matches now impact earnings equally. His call for transparency in seating and point systems addresses player concerns about merit-based opportunities, particularly with appearance fees tied to rankings. The trust issue is significant, given historical context of unfulfilled promises, and his mention of strong-arming tactics suggests ongoing tensions, potentially affecting player morale and league cohesion.

Topic 4: Tyler’s Perspective (Time Code: 15:41)

• Discussion Points:
  • Tyler agrees changes are necessary for sustainability but notes the structure is top-heavy, with 4-8 players earning millions while others struggle.
  • Highlights benefits of guaranteed contracts for planning (hotels, flights, training), now at risk without guarantees.
  • Concerned about financial sustainability for mid-tier players, potentially leading to talent loss and reduced competitiveness.
  • Notes players like Hayden Patriquin could benefit due to increased value, while established players like Matt Wright might resist, citing past non-compliers like Julian Arnold facing no repercussions.
• Analysis: Tyler's view underscores the risk of a top-heavy model, potentially reverting to pre-Tour Wars disparities where only elites thrive, reducing league diversity. The loss of guaranteed contracts could disproportionately affect mid-tier players, impacting their ability to invest in careers, which might deter new talent and weaken competitiveness. His mention of players like Patriquin benefiting highlights generational shifts, but the lack of repercussions for non-compliers like Arnold suggests perceived inequities, possibly fueling bitterness among compliant players. This reflects broader challenges in balancing league growth with player welfare.

Comparative Analysis and Implications

The episode reveals a sport at a crossroads, with UPA's strategies aiming for sustainability through TV deals and prize money, but at the cost of player financial security for many. Jimmy's focus on operational fairness and Tyler's on player welfare highlight complementary concerns, suggesting a need for hybrid models that balance incentives with guarantees. The controversy around trust and past promises, as noted by both, indicates a need for transparent communication to maintain player support, crucial for long-term growth.

Tables for Clarity

Below is a table summarizing the key changes in the UPA pay structure:

Aspect	Current (Guaranteed Contracts)	Proposed (Prize Money Model)
Base Pay	Fixed annual amount (e.g., $300,000 over 3 years)	Divided over years (e.g., $100,000/year)
Additional Earnings	Minimal, based on bonuses	Prize pool ($26-30M for slams), appearance fees
Appearance Fees	Not specified	Rank-based: $10,000 (top) to $1,000 (below top 20)
Motivation for Players	Stability, less performance pressure	Performance-driven, higher stakes for tournaments

Another table for host perspectives:

Host	Key Concern	Proposed Solution
Jimmy Miller	Fairness in court conditions, trust issues	Uniform replays, transparent systems, rebuild trust
Tyler Loong	Top-heavy structure, player sustainability	Balance incentives, ensure financial stability for mid-tier

Conclusion

This episode of the King Of The Court Podcast provides a comprehensive overview of professional pickleball's challenges, from historical contract disputes to future financial models. It underscores the need for a balanced approach that considers both league sustainability and player welfare, with ongoing debates likely to shape the sport's trajectory in 2025 and beyond.

Key Citations

• Carvana PPA Tour and Major League Pickleball Announce Full Merger to Form a Unified Professional Pickleball Organization PPA Tour
• United Pickleball UPA Parent Company of PPA Tour & MLP
• USA Pickleball vs UPA-A Pickleball Organizations Explained Guides

Time Code List

1. 0:00 Intro
2. 0:46 Tour Wars Recap
3. 3:38 UPA Pay Structure
4. 8:37 Jimmy’s Perspective
5. 15:41 Tyler’s Perspective

Click Title To Hear Song

Paddle Up, Pickleball Dream

Verse 1: Folk Style
In a land of nets and courts, where the paddles play,
Came the Tour Wars rumble, in a wild, wild fray.
PPA and MLP, they bid the stakes up high,
Dollars flew like fireflies, lighting up the sky.

Chorus: Jazzy Style
Oh, we’re swinging strong, under UPA’s glow,
A merger made of magic, watch the good times flow.
Prize pools big and bright, slams that steal the scene,
Paddle up, my friends, it’s a pickleball dream!

Verse 2: Rap Style
Yo, check the shift, no guarantees in sight,
Prize money’s the game now, millions burning bright.
Twenty-six to thirty, slams are where it’s at,
Appearance fees by ranking—top dogs get the stack.
Ten grand for the champs, a G for the crew,
Hustle on the court, show the world what you do!

Bridge: Folk-Jazzy Fusion
Jimmy’s got a vision, fairness in the air,
Replays and trust, he’s calling it square.
Tyler’s got a vibe, balance is the key,
Mid-tier players rising, thriving wild and free.

Chorus: Jazzy Style
Oh, we’re swinging strong, under UPA’s glow,
A merger made of magic, watch the good times flow.
Prize pools big and bright, slams that steal the scene,
Paddle up, my friends, it’s a pickleball dream!

Verse 3: Rap Style
Hayden’s on the come-up, Gabe’s a shining name,
Value’s climbing fast, they’re changing up the game.
Matt and Julian hold it down, voices in the mix,
Together we’re building, stacking up the bricks.

Outro: Folk Style
So here’s to pickleball, with its highs and lows,
A sport that’s blooming wild, like a river flows.
With trust and heart, we’ll cheer it loud and clear,
Paddling to tomorrow, year by golden year.