Despite the many similarities between pickleball and tennis, nobody can deny the many tensions that exist.
So, even though all pickleball fans know that the sport is hard to resist, it may come as a surprise to learn that ex-professional tennis player, Roger Federer, is considering taking up the sport.
Tthe tennis legend, who has won the hearts of millions with his mastery on the court, is exploring new horizons in the world of sports post-retirement.
His curiosity about pickleball was sparked by its growing fanbase and the transformation of tennis courts into pickleball courts, a testament to its rising popularity.
In an interview, Federer joked about the possibility of taking up pickleball, noting that many legendary tennis players have participated in the sport through exhibition tournaments.
Federer’s venture into pickleball isn’t confirmed, but his openness to playing the sport aligns with his pursuit of staying active and enjoying sports with less pressure than professional tennis.
Federer, who has never played pickleball, mentioned having never held a pickleball padel, but is intrigued by pickleball’s fast growth and popularity, especially in the U.S.
Beyond just talk, Federer has also dipped his toes into the commercial aspects of racket sports.
He recently announced the debut of his Clubhouse Pro sneakers on Instagram, designed for versatility across various racket sports, including tennis and pickleball.
emphasized the shoes’ adaptability for playing any racking sport, underlining the importance of comfort and performance in footwear designed for athletes.
Since partnering with the Swiss brand On in 2019, Federer has been actively involved in developing athletic footwear, with his stake in the company significantly increasing in value since its public offering in 2023.
While he may not have officially taken up pickleball yet, Federer’s actions and words suggest a growing interest that might soon see him on the pickleball courts.
This move would not only be a thrilling development for pickleball enthusiasts but also mark another chapter in Federer’s illustrious career, bridging the worlds of professional tennis, entrepreneurship, and now, potentially, pickleball.