Andre Agassi Hated Tennis. Can He Have More Fun Playing Pickleball?

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Published: 2026-09-07T10:10:25.566Z • Permanent link

Andre Agassi, the former professional tennis player, has long been known for his fiery personality and intense competitiveness on the court. However, what's less well-known is that Agassi has publicly stated that he hated tennis. Despite his success in the sport, winning eight Grand Slam singles titles and becoming the world's top-ranked player for two years, Agassi has expressed feelings of frustration and disillusionment with the game. In recent years, Agassi has been quietly pursuing a new passion: pickleball.

Agassi's love of pickleball was first publicly acknowledged in a 2022 interview with ESPN, where he stated that he had taken up the sport as a way to stay active and have fun. Since then, Agassi has become a vocal advocate for pickleball, using his platform to promote the sport and encourage others to try it. His efforts have been met with enthusiasm from pickleball enthusiasts around the world, who see him as a role model and inspiration.

Agassi's decision to pursue pickleball is also seen as a strategic move. By leveraging his fame and influence to promote the sport, Agassi hopes to help grow the sport's popularity and increase its visibility. According to data from the Sports & Fitness Industry Association, pickleball has experienced rapid growth in recent years, with participation increasing by 23% between 2020 and 2022. Agassi's involvement is likely to further fuel this growth, as he becomes a prominent figure in the pickleball community.

Agassi's decision to pursue pickleball has significant implications for the Data Sources domain. Companies that produce equipment and gear for pickleball, such as pickleball paddle manufacturers and ball makers, are likely to see increased demand and revenue as a result of Agassi's endorsement. Research communities studying the sport and its impact on physical health are also likely to be interested in Agassi's findings, as his participation could provide valuable insights into the sport's benefits and drawbacks.

Markets that are affected by Agassi's involvement include the sports equipment industry, which could see increased sales and revenue as a result of his endorsement. Additionally, policymakers and regulators may take notice of Agassi's promotion of pickleball, as the sport's growth could have implications for public health initiatives and recreational programs. Companies such as DICK'S Sporting Goods and Academy Sports + Outdoors, which sell pickleball equipment and gear, are likely to see increased sales and revenue as a result of Agassi's endorsement.

Agassi's decision to pursue pickleball is part of a larger trend in the sports industry, where athletes are increasingly seeking alternative and more accessible forms of competition. This trend is driven in part by the growing popularity of pickleball, which has become a staple of recreational sports in the United States and around the world. According to data from the USA Pickleball Association, pickleball participation has grown by over 50% in the past five years, with over 3 million players now participating in the sport.