FLORIDA: Former tennis world No. 1 Andre Agassi’s debut in professional pickleball came to an early exit at the US Open Pickleball Championships in Naples, Florida. He teamed up with top pickleball player Anna Leigh Waters in the mixed pro division of the event. He won his first match but was eliminated in the second round.

Agassi and Waters opened their game with a hard-fought 11-8, 9-11, 11-7 victory over Stevie Petropouleas and Tristan Dussault. However, they were defeated by Len Yang and Trang Huynh-McClain in their second match with a final scoreline of 11-7, 4-11, 7-11. 

Despite the early exit, Agassi’s appearance in his new sport drew attention and excitement, as fans were eager to see how his tennis skills would translate to the fast-growing sport of pickleball.

On partnering up with Waters

Ahead of the tournament, Agassi had high praises for his partner, Anna Leigh Waters, and  called her an exceptional talent.

The 18-year-old is currently the No. 1-ranked pickleball player in the world, and Agassi expressed excitement about teaming up with someone like her. He admitted: “She’s right up there with the greatest ever in what she does and the idea of challenging myself to not screw things up for her is daunting.” 

In a social media post, Agassi shared: “What an incredible day at the @usopenpickleball! Thank you to the incomparable @a.l.waters_a1. You are an absolute force on the court and a joy to partner with—she is such a special talent. Thank you to @usopenpickleball team: Bob, Ben, and Nick, the fans who packed the stands, and my family for coming out to support you made this experience unforgettable. Also, thanks to @travisrettenmaier for helping me on and off the court. I love this sport and am committed to learn and improve.”

Netizens commented on the post and said: “Let’s go! Competed well out there…all of us in the sport are lucky to ...