Pickleball has exploded in popularity over the last few years, and it’s not just casual players who are hooked. Celebrities and professional athletes from various sports have jumped on the pickleball bandwagon, bringing more visibility and excitement to the game.
But what makes pickleball so attractive to Hollywood stars and sports legends? Is it the fast-paced action, the social atmosphere, or the undeniable fun of the game?
In this blog, we’ll dive into:
- Why celebrities and athletes love pickleball
- Which famous names are leading the charge
- How pro athletes use pickleball for cross-training
- How you can get started and play like the stars
1. Why Celebrities and Athletes Love Pickleball
a. It’s Easy to Learn, Hard to Master
Pickleball has a low barrier to entry—anyone can pick up a paddle and start playing in minutes. But once you get into it, you quickly realize there’s a strategic depth that keeps players coming back for more.
For busy celebrities and athletes, this means they can enjoy the game without years of training, yet still experience competitive excitement.
b. It’s Social and Competitive
Unlike tennis, where long rallies can be grueling, pickleball is more about quick reflexes, strategic shot placement, and fun rallies. The smaller court size also makes it a great social game, perfect for Hollywood stars who enjoy friendly competition.
Many celebrities even host their own pickleball tournaments at home or play in private country clubs.
c. Great for Cross-Training
For professional athletes, pickleball provides a low-impact workout that improves agility, reaction time, and hand-eye coordination—all without the wear and tear of high-impact sports like basketball or football.
NBA and NFL players, in particular, have embraced pickleball as a way to stay sharp while reducing injury risks.
2. Celebrities Who Are Obsessed With Pickleball
a. Leonardo DiCaprio
Yes, Leo is a pickleball fan! The Oscar-winning actor was spotted playing pickleball with friends in Malibu, and sources say he’s got a solid game. He enjoys the sport as a way to stay active while socializing.
b. Jamie Foxx
Jamie Foxx is more than just a casual player—he’s even partnered with a pickleball equipment brand, helping bring more attention to the game. Foxx has said he loves the fast-paced nature and accessibility of pickleball.
c. Bill Gates
Believe it or not, Bill Gates was one of the earliest celebrity pickleball players. He started playing in the 1970s and has long been an advocate for the sport. He even created a video explaining the history of pickleball!
d. The Kardashians
The Kardashian-Jenner clan has been spotted playing pickleball at their luxurious homes, turning their backyard courts into celebrity pickleball arenas. Their influence has undoubtedly helped introduce the game to a younger audience.
e. Emma Watson
The "Harry Potter" star has spoken about her love for pickleball, calling it a great way to stay active without the pressure of intense competition.
These are just a few examples—pickleball fever is spreading through Hollywood!
3. Pro Athletes Who Swear by Pickleball
a. Tom Brady (NFL)
Tom Brady, one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time, isn’t just a fan—he invested in a professional pickleball team. He sees the game as a way to stay competitive while having fun.
b. LeBron James (NBA)
LeBron James has also jumped into the pickleball world by investing in Major League Pickleball (MLP). If the King himself sees the potential in pickleball, you know it’s serious!
c. Drew Brees (NFL)
The former Saints quarterback is not just an investor but an active pickleball player. Brees credits the sport for helping him stay sharp after retiring from football.
d. Kevin Durant (NBA)
Durant has backed a Major League Pickleball team, seeing it as a sport that could rival tennis in popularity. His involvement has brought even more credibility to the game.
e. Serena Williams (Tennis)
While Serena dominated tennis for decades, she has dabbled in pickleball as well. Given her skill set, it’s no surprise she picks up the game effortlessly.
Many retired athletes love pickleball because it keeps them competitive without the high-impact stress of their original sports.
4. Why Pro Athletes Use Pickleball for Cross-Training
Pickleball isn’t just for fun—many professional athletes use it as a training tool to improve:
- Hand-eye coordination
- Agility and footwork
- Reaction speed
- Mental sharpness under pressure
Since pickleball requires quick reflexes, it’s a great way to maintain athleticism while reducing injury risks.
5. Want to Play Like the Pros? Here’s How
a. Get the Right Gear
You don’t need a celebrity budget to play pickleball, but having the right gear can make a huge difference.
- A lightweight paddle for better control
- Moisture-wicking pickleball t-shirts to keep you cool
- A high-quality tumbler to stay hydrated on the court
At BigGreenPickle.com, you can find moisture-wicking pickleball t-shirts with fun, stylish designs. Whether you choose the affordable 50/50 DryBlend or the premium 100% Polyester Mesh, you’ll stay comfortable while playing.
And don’t forget to grab one of their pickleball-themed tumblers—perfect for keeping your drink cold during long matches!
b. Play Smart, Not Just Hard
Pickleball isn’t just about power—it’s about strategy. To play like a pro:
- Stay near the kitchen line for better control
- Use the third shot drop to neutralize power players
- Mix up your shots to keep opponents guessing
c. Play with Better Players
Want to improve fast? Play against better opponents. This will push you to react quicker, refine your techniques, and develop better court awareness.
Final Thoughts
Pickleball’s rise in popularity isn’t just a trend—it’s a movement. From Hollywood A-listers to professional athletes, everyone seems to be jumping into the pickleball craze. Whether it’s for fun, competition, or cross-training, the sport has captured the hearts of people from all walks of life.
And if you want to play like the pros, make sure you’re geared up properly. Check out BigGreenPickle.com for moisture-wicking pickleball t-shirts and pickleball tumblers that keep you cool and hydrated during every match.
Who knows? Maybe you’ll find yourself playing against a celebrity on the courts someday!
