Famous People Who Play Pickleball

Famous People Who Play Pickleball

Famous People Who Play Pickleball: A Star Studded Lineup

Pickleball has soared in popularity, drawing a staggering range of household names into its courts. From tennis legends stepping into new competition to Hollywood celebrities seeking a fun way to stay fit, famous people who play pickleball have turned the game into a bona fide phenomenon. This article dives into the star studded lineup of players, investors, and advocates, while also highlighting exciting transitions, like J.D. Martinez, who is already gearing up for a professional pickleball career.

Why Pickleball Is Gaining Celebrity Attention

Pickleball in a way combines tennis, racquetball, badminton, and ping pong, making it accessible for people of all ages and skill levels. It’s smaller court size, lighter paddle, cheap cost of entry, and unique scoring system allow for shorter learning curves and quicker rounds. These fast paced, social matches appeal to busy celebrities and professional athletes looking for a fun way to stay active. According to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association, pickleball has been deemed the fastest growing sport in the United States for several years running.

The game’s rising profile has also sparked competitive professional leagues, like Major League Pickleball (MLP) and the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA). Investors include basketball superstars, NFL legends, and leading entrepreneurs. Meanwhile, high profile endorsements from everyday pickleball players such as Kevin Hart and Bill Gates shine a spotlight on how pickleball unites people of varied backgrounds.

Famous Athletes Who Play Pickleball

These well known sports figures either play pickleball recreationally or have participated in public matches, promotions, or exhibitions.

  • Drew Brees (NFL – Former QB, New Orleans Saints): Invested in Mad Drops Pickleball Club. Regularly plays, owns Pickle N Pins, and advocates for the sport.
  • Cam Newton (NFL – Former QB, Carolina Panthers): Spotted enjoying casual matches.
  • Tim Tebow (NFL & College Football): Known for his recreational games.
  • John McEnroe (Tennis Legend): Appeared in pickleball exhibitions, like the “Pickleball Slam.”
John McEnroe Vs Andre Agassi Pickleball
  • Andre Agassi (Tennis Legend): Competed in the inaugural Pickleball Slam against McEnroe.
  • Steffi Graf (Tennis Legend): Joined in the fun at special pickleball events.
  • Andy Roddick (Former Tennis Pro): Showed off powerful serves in pickleball showcases.
  • Michael Phelps (Olympic Swimmer): Has played recreationally and invested in an MLP team (AZ Drive).
  • Tony Hawk (Skateboarding Icon): Embraces pickleball as a fresh athletic outlet.
  • Kevin Durant (NBA Star): Invested in the Brooklyn Aces of MLP.
  • LeBron James (NBA Superstar): Co-owns an MLP expansion team with Maverick Carter and partners.
  • Tom Brady (NFL – Legendary QB): Bought into an MLP expansion team (Las Vegas Night Owls) with tennis star Kim Clijsters.
  • Gary Payton (NBA Hall of Famer): Publicly speaks about the game’s competitive allure.
  • Mardy Fish (Former Tennis Player): Enjoys competitive pickleball and exhibitions.
  • Bobby Riggs (Tennis Legend): Famously played pickleball in his later years.
  • Shaquille O’Neal (NBA Legend): Has expressed his interest in the fast growing sport.
  • Jim Courier (Tennis Legend): Plays recreationally during his downtime.
  • Rick Barry (NBA Hall of Famer): Embraces the game and often promotes it.
  • Nick Kyrgios (Pro Tennis Player): Hinted at a possible switch to pro pickleball after tennis.
  • Tyson McGuffin (Former Tennis & Wrestling Athlete): Transitioned to professional pickleball, quickly becoming a top ranked pro.
  • Zane Navratil (Former College Tennis Star): Left tennis for professional pickleball and rose to prominence.
  • Ben Johns (Top Ranked Pro Pickleball Player): Started as a tennis player and is now recognized as one of the best pickleball players worldwide.

Celebrities and Movie Stars Who Enjoy Pickleball

Beyond the athletic sphere, several Hollywood icons and household names have shared their passion for pickleball. Some turn to it as a quick cardio session or family pastime, while others have invested in the sport’s future.

  • George Clooney: Reportedly enjoys casual matches at home.
  • Leonardo DiCaprio: Plays regularly on a private court, ensuring paparazzi free fun.
  • Jamie Foxx: Enthusiastic about the game, involved in pickleball promotions.
Jamie Foxx Pickleball
  • Matthew Perry (RIP): The “Friends” star was an avid player and talked about it often.
  • Bill Gates (Microsoft Co Founder): Played pickleball as a teenager, continues to support its growth.
  • Ellen DeGeneres: Known to pick up a paddle during downtime.
  • Emma Watson: Takes part casually, rumored to enjoy the social aspects.
  • Joel McHale (Comedian, Actor): Publicly shared his enthusiasm for the sport.
  • Jillian Michaels (Fitness Expert): Views pickleball as an excellent workout.
  • Will Ferrell (Actor, “Anchorman”): Has been seen playing for fun.
  • Larry David (“Curb Your Enthusiasm”): Known for comedic rants, also loves a good pickleball rally.
  • Shonda Rhimes (TV Producer): Enjoys a friendly game for recreation.
  • Kevin Hart (Comedian): Participates in celebrity pickleball matches.
  • Kenny Loggins (Singer Songwriter): Big fan of the game and shares it with friends.
  • Jay-Z & Beyoncé: Reported to be casual players, with rumors swirling about possible investment.
  • Jimmy Buffett (RIP): Loved the easygoing vibe of pickleball, often mixing play and music.
  • Justin & Hailey Bieber: Seen playing together during vacations.
  • Dierks Bentley (Country Star): Fits pickleball into his off stage routines.
  • Kristin Chenoweth (Actress & Singer): Advocates for the game as a social activity.
  • Owen Wilson (Actor): Appreciates the energetic flow and friendly competition.

Athletes Who Transitioned to Professional Pickleball

While many sports icons dabble, some have chosen to pursue pickleball as a professional endeavor. These transitions underscore the game’s competitive depth:

  • Ben Johns: Ranks among the best in the world, showcasing advanced techniques that push the sport forward.
  • Tyson McGuffin: Successfully moved from wrestling and tennis to dominating pro pickleball.
  • Catherine Parenteau: A former college tennis athlete who stands out in doubles and singles pickleball.
  • Zane Navratil: Left behind a college tennis career to rise in professional pickleball rankings.
  • Lea Jansen: Made her mark as a formidable singles and doubles contender.
  • Parris Todd: A young tennis pro who is now an emerging star on the pickleball circuit.

High Profile Pickleball Investors and Teams

The formation of leagues such as Major League Pickleball (MLP) and the National Pickleball League (NPL) has attracted an impressive lineup of investors. These owners see immense potential for media deals, merchandising, and community engagement within the sport.

Below is a snapshot of notable personalities who have made significant investments:

InvestorAssociated Team/Details
LeBron JamesPart of an MLP ownership group since 2022
Kevin DurantBrooklyn Aces (MLP)
Tom BradyLas Vegas Night Owls (MLP) with Kim Clijsters
Patrick MahomesMiami Pickleball Club (MLP)
Naomi OsakaMiami Pickleball Club (MLP) alongside Mahomes
Nick KyrgiosJoined Mahomes and Osaka in the same MLP investment
Drake & Michael B. JordanBrooklyn Aces (MLP) since 2023
Vince VaughnCoachella Valley Scorpions (NPL)
Larry Fitzgerald, Devin Booker, Michael PhelpsAZ Drive (MLP) ownership group
Jayson TatumLos Angeles Mad Drops (MLP) since 2023
Dude PerfectFrisco Pandas (MLP)
Marc LasryPart of an MLP ownership group
Gary VaynerchukOwns The 5s (MLP)

J.D. Martinez: The Newest Star Eyeing Pro Pickleball

Former MLB slugger J.D. Martinez, who most recently played for the New York Mets in 2024, has taken his love for pickleball to the next level. Martinez signed an exclusive deal with JOOLA to train for a professional career after he finishes baseball. Even at 37, he has shown strong potential on the court, working closely with pickleball pro Eric White. According to White, Martinez has “no ceiling” for how far he can go.

J.D. Martinez Pickleball

Martinez’s deal with JOOLA offers him equipment, coaching, and backing to compete in events like the PPA Challenger Series. He plans to continue playing baseball in 2025 if possible, but his post MLB pathway is set for pickleball. “I see pickleball as a sport I’ll be involved in for the long run,” Martinez said, emphasizing how the game’s inclusive nature appeals to him.

Famous People Who Play Pickleball: Q&A Section

How did J.D. Martinez get started in pickleball?

He began playing in the offseason as a fun way to stay active. Over time, he developed a serious passion and recognized his potential to transition into pro pickleball with dedicated training.

What makes pickleball appealing to big name athletes?

The sport’s fast paced rallies and smaller court design reduce wear and tear on the body. Athletes can extend their competitive spirit while avoiding the intense demands of their primary sports.

Which celebrities have invested in pickleball?

Many high profile figures have purchased MLP or NPL teams. The list includes LeBron James, Tom Brady, Kevin Durant, Patrick Mahomes, and even actors like Vince Vaughn.

Is professional pickleball profitable?

Leagues such as MLP and the PPA are expanding. Growing sponsorships, broadcasting deals, and a surge in public interest suggest that professional pickleball can be a viable long term investment.

Star Showdowns: Who Would You Want to Watch?

The fun of pickleball often lies in imagining dream matchups. Tom Brady might square off against Drew Brees in a heated paddle battle, or perhaps Will Ferrell could challenge Ellen DeGeneres for on-court comedic banter. The game’s accessible format invites all kinds of creative pairings.

We’d love to hear your take:

  • Which famous people who play pickleball do you want to see face off?
  • Would you rather watch pro athletes compete in a round robin tournament, or should Hollywood stars test their comedic timing on the court?
  • Are there other big personalities, musicians, entrepreneurs, or influencers, you’d like to see pick up a paddle?

Final Thoughts on Famous People Who Play Pickleball

The rise of pickleball has been fueled by its inclusive design and endless entertainment value. J.D. Martinez’s move toward pro pickleball illustrates the sport’s legitimacy. Meanwhile, celebrities from Jamie Foxx to Ellen DeGeneres have shown that anyone can find joy swinging a paddle. Whether you’re a casual player or aiming for professional ranks, one thing is clear: pickleball is unifying people across sports, entertainment, and business like never before.

Ready to delve deeper? Explore our in-depth guides, follow the progress of your favorite star athletes, and consider adding a pickleball paddle to your own sports bag. You may be one swing away from discovering your new favorite pastime.

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