Though Andre Agassi pickleball debut is professional, he’s no stranger to the sport. He and his family, including wife Steffi Graf, picked up pickleball during the 2020 COVID-19 lockdowns. What began as a pastime grew into a passion, leading Agassi to compete in exhibition events like the Pickleball Slam. In 2023, he won the inaugural Slam with Andy Roddick, followed by victories with Graf against John McEnroe and Maria Sharapova in 2024.
Beyond playing, Agassi is a JOOLA brand ambassador, launching his pro pickleball paddle line in March 2025. As chair of Lifetime’s pickleball and tennis board, he’s driven community engagement through events like the Agassi Open Play Day, setting the stage for his U.S. Open debut.
Agassi’s Pickleball Milestones
| Year | Event | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | Began playing pickleball | Family pastime during lockdowns |
| 2023 | Pickleball Slam 1 | Won with Andy Roddick |
| 2024 | Pickleball Slam 2 & 3 | Won with Steffi Graf |
| 2025 | JOOLA Paddle Launch | Released signature paddle line |
| 2025 | U.S. Open Pickleball Championships | Professional debut with Anna Leigh Waters |
Anna Leigh Waters: Guiding Andre Agassi Pickleball Debut
At 18, Anna Leigh Waters is pickleball’s biggest star, with $3 million in 2024 earnings from endorsements and prizes. She dominated the 2024 U.S. Open, winning mixed doubles with JW Johnson and women’s doubles with her mother, Leigh Waters. Her high-speed, powerful shots have shifted pickleball toward aggressive play, making her the ideal partner for Andre Agassi Pickleball Debut.
Waters’ decision to team with Agassi reflects her mission to grow the sport. “Andre’s all about expanding pickleball, and that’s my goal too,” she told CNBC. Her excitement shone through on social media, where she re-posted Agassi’s announcement with, “We readyyyy 🔥.”
Waters’ Role in Agassi’s Debut
- Strategic Guide: Waters coaches Agassi on pickleball tactics and opponent analysis.
- Mentor-Partner: She helps Agassi adapt his tennis skills to pickleball’s unique court dynamics.
- Brand Booster: Her star status amplifies the debut’s reach, drawing massive attention.
U.S. Open Pickleball Championships: Stage for Agassi’s Debut
The 2025 U.S. Open Pickleball Championships, held April 26–May 3 at East Naples Community Park, is a premier event attracting 50,000 spectators. Agassi’s pickleball debut match with Waters on April 30 is a highlight, broadcast live on CBS Sports Network. Now in its ninth year, the tournament showcases top talent across singles, doubles, and mixed doubles.
Expect a fast-paced match driven by their aggressive styles. Waters’ “speeding up” strategy emphasizes powerful shots, while Agassi leans on his athletic instincts and her expertise to adapt to pickleball’s nuances.
Event Details
- Date: April 30, 2025 (first match)
- Location: East Naples Community Park, Naples, Florida
- Broadcast: CBS Sports Network, noon ET
- Scope: Mixed doubles within the U.S. Open Pickleball Championships
Boosting Pickleball’s Growth Through Agassi’s Debut
Andre Agassi pickleball debut is a game-changer for the sport, which saw 48.3 million adult players from 2022–2023, per the Association of Pickleball Professionals. While athletes like LeBron James and Tom Brady have invested in pickleball, Agassi’s participation carries unique weight due to his tennis legacy and genuine commitment.
His partnership with Waters highlights pickleball’s inclusivity, uniting generations. Social media buzz, including posts from the U.S. Open account and Waters, underscores the excitement. Agassi’s work with JOOLA and Life Time further ensures the sport’s accessibility, amplifying his debut impact.
Why Agassi’s Debut Matters
- Mass Appeal: His tennis fame draws mainstream media, boosting pickleball’s profile.
- Authentic Commitment: Agassi’s long-term involvement adds credibility beyond a celebrity cameo.
- Cultural Shift: The partnership captures pickleball’s rise, engaging new and veteran fans.
Challenges Facing Agassi’s Pickleball Debut
Transitioning to pickleball poses challenges for Agassi. The smaller court and unique rules demand unlearning tennis habits. “I’m still figuring out how to channel my energy on a pickleball court,” he admitted. Waters’ guidance is critical, but the pressure to perform alongside the world’s best is high.
Analysts remain optimistic. Waters’ aggressive style aligns with Agassi’s hard-hitting background, and their chemistry could shine. While Agassi isn’t eyeing a full-time PPA Tour career, his debut could spark future high-profile appearances.
Fan and Industry Buzz Around the Debut
The announcement of Andre Agassi pickleball debut has sparked a frenzy. X posts, like @TheKitchenPB’s “How will they do?”, reflect fan excitement. Waters called it “so exciting,” while the U.S. Open Tournament Director hailed it as a blend of “tennis royalty” and the “pickleball queen.”
Agassi’s daughter, Jaz, cheered his competitive return, adding a personal touch. Industry endorsements and family support cement the debut’s significance.
Conclusion
Andre Agassi pickleball debut at the 2025 U.S. Open Pickleball Championships, alongside Anna Leigh Waters, is a defining moment. Their partnership blends star power, skill, and a vision to grow pickleball globally. On April 30, expect an aggressive, high-energy match that showcases the sport’s thrill and accessibility. Whether a one-off or a new chapter, Agassi’s debut will shape pickleball’s future.
For updates on Andre Agassi pickleball debut, tune into CBS Sports Network or follow social media for live reactions. Ready for this historic match?
