In the dynamic world of professional pickleball, few young athletes have made as significant an impact as Gabriel “Gabe” Tardio. Originally from Bolivia, Tardio transitioned from tennis to pickleball and quickly became one of the most promising young players in the sport. His rapid rise, strategic gameplay, and powerful strokes have solidified his position as a rising star in the pickleball community.
From humble beginnings to major tournaments, Gabriel’s story is one of passion, dedication, and perseverance. In this article, we’ll dive deep into his biography, career highlights, net worth, family, relationships, and social media presence while also addressing some controversies and answering frequently asked questions.
Gabriel Tardio’s Biography
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Gabriel “Gabe” Tardio |
| Date of Birth | August 29, 2005 |
| Place of Birth | Bolivia |
| Height | 6’1″ |
| Playing Hand | Right |
| Current Residence | Jupiter, Florida, USA |
| Professional Debut | 2020 |
| Current Paddle | PIKKL Vantage Pro |
| Sponsors | PIKKL |
Gabriel Tardio: Early Life and Education
Gabriel Tardio was born on August 29, 2005, in Bolivia. From a young age, he showed immense interest in sports, particularly tennis. His skills on the tennis court earned him recognition as one of the top 10 under-14 tennis players in Bolivia.
At the age of 14, Gabriel was introduced to pickleball by his grandfather, who recognized his potential. To support his training, his grandfather built two pickleball courts at their home, allowing Gabriel to refine his skills. This early exposure gave him an advantage, but at the time, pickleball was not a mainstream sport in Bolivia.
In September 2019, Gabriel moved to Jupiter, Florida, to advance his tennis career. However, when the COVID-19 pandemic hit in early 2020, his tennis training was interrupted due to academy closures. This event became a turning point, as he fully transitioned to pickleball, practicing rigorously and setting his sights on a professional career in the sport.
Professional Pickleball Career
Gabriel Tardio’s official professional debut came in 2020, and since then, he has continued to improve, making a name for himself among some of the best pickleball players in the world.
Major Achievements
- MLP Semifinalist
- Gabriel reached the semifinals at both MLP Newport Beach and MLP San Clemente tournaments, proving himself as a serious contender on the circuit.
- First PPA Singles Title
- He secured his first Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) singles title by defeating Tyson McGuffin in straight sets (11-9, 11-4). This win established him as a major force in the sport.
- Selected as Ben Johns’ Doubles Partner for 2025
- In a groundbreaking move, Ben Johns, the #1-ranked pickleball player, chose Gabriel as his men’s doubles partner for the 2025 season. This duo is expected to dominate upcoming tournaments.
- Re-signed with PPA for 3 Years
- Gabriel extended his contract with the PPA Tour until 2027, reinforcing his commitment to playing at the highest level.
Playing Style and Strengths
Gabriel Tardio is known for his aggressive and high-energy playing style. His strengths include:
- Powerful Baseline Play – Uses deep, fast-paced groundstrokes to control rallies.
- Strong Net Presence – Excellent hand speed, allowing quick volleys and counter-attacks.
- Tennis-Inspired Serve – Uses a hard, accurate serve to gain early advantages.
- Strategic Shot Placement – Can switch between offensive and defensive styles seamlessly.
His ability to adapt and outplay veteran opponents has made him one of the most exciting young players in professional pickleball.
Gabriel Tardio: Relationships and Family
Gabriel Tardio values his privacy when it comes to his personal relationships. However, his family has played a major role in his success, particularly his grandfather, who first introduced him to pickleball.
Although there is no confirmed information about a girlfriend, he remains focused on his career, traveling extensively for tournaments and training sessions.
Tardio Pickleball Age
Gabriel Tardio was born on August 29, 2005, making him 19 years old as of 2024. Despite his young age, he has already established himself as one of the top emerging stars in professional pickleball.
Tardio’s age gives him a unique advantage in the sport. Unlike many seasoned players who transitioned from tennis or other racquet sports later in life, Tardio started playing pickleball at just 14 years old. His early start has allowed him to adapt quickly, develop advanced techniques, and compete at an elite level while still being in his teenage years.
Gabriel Tardio Net Worth
Gabriel’s exact net worth is not publicly disclosed, but sources estimate it to be growing steadily due to:
- Tournament winnings from PPA and MLP events.
- Sponsorship deals with PIKKL and other sports brands.
- Upcoming contracts with major leagues and prize money from future competitions.
With his increasing success, his net worth is expected to rise significantly over the next few years.
Social Media Presence
Gabriel Tardio maintains an active social media presence, connecting with fans and sharing updates about his matches and training.
- Instagram: @gabetardiopb
- Twitter: Engages with pickleball fans and fellow players.
- YouTube: Occasionally shares match highlights and training sessions.
Interesting Facts About Gabriel Tardio
- Started as a Tennis Prodigy – Ranked among Bolivia’s top 10 under-14 tennis players.
- First Introduced to Pickleball by His Grandfather – Who even built two courts for him to practice.
- Youngest Partner of Ben Johns – Making him one of the most-watched players in 2025.
- Fastest-Rising Pickleball Star – Secured a PPA singles title in record time.
FAQs
When did Gabriel Tardio start playing pickleball?
Gabriel started playing pickleball at age 14, introduced by his grandfather in Bolivia.
Who is Gabriel Tardio’s doubles partner for 2025?
He will be partnering with Ben Johns, the most dominant player in the sport.
What paddle does Gabriel Tardio use?
He currently plays with the PIKKL Vantage Pro.
Where is Tardio pickleball from?
Gabriel Tardio is originally from Bolivia, a country in South America. He was born on August 29, 2005, and spent his early years there before moving to the United States.
How Much Money Does Gabe Tardio Make?
While exact figures are not publicly disclosed, Gabe Tardio earns money through tournament winnings, sponsorship deals, and endorsements. With his recent three-year contract extension with the PPA Tour (until 2027) and his partnership with PIKKL, his earnings are expected to grow significantly as he continues to dominate in professional pickleball.
Controversies
While Gabriel Tardio has largely maintained a clean image, there have been minor controversies:
- MLP Team Transfers – Negotiations led to speculation about financial incentives.
- Rapid Rise in Pickleball – Some veterans questioned whether younger players like him could compete at the highest level.
- Social Media Outbursts – Occasionally speaks out about match officiating, sparking online debates.
Despite these small controversies, he remains focused on his career and continues to gain respect in the pickleball world.
Latest Post: Victoria DiMuzio Pickleball
Conclusion
Gabriel Tardio is undoubtedly one of the fastest-rising stars in professional pickleball. From his roots in Bolivia to becoming a top-ranked pro, his story is inspiring young athletes worldwide.
With major titles, high-profile partnerships, and an unstoppable drive, he is set to become one of the biggest names in pickleball in the coming years. Whether you’re a pickleball enthusiast or new to the sport, Gabriel Tardio is a name to keep an eye on!
