Sharapova: I’m playing pickleball. And not just any pickleball, I am playing with John McEnroe against Steffi Graf and Andre Agassi,”
WTA
Maria
Sharapova announced that she will play a pickleball exhibition alongside John
McEnroe against Steffi Graf and Andre Agassi.
The
36-year-old Sharapova retired from professional tennis in 2020, leaving behind
her years of glory where she reached world No. 1 and became a 5-time Grand Slam
champion, with the unique achievement of winning all four major titles, a feat
accomplished by only four other players in the Open Era.
As one of
the greatest tennis players in history, with 36 career titles, the Russian
tennis star has been away from professional tennis for three years and has been
dedicated to her fashion business and various investments.
This time,
she announced through her social media channels her upcoming foray into the
world of pickleball and will participate in an exhibition match with other
tennis legends.
In particular, she will team up with John McEnroe against the
married couple Steffi Graf and Andre Agassi, a match that features four former
world No. 1 players and a total of 42 Grand Slam titles among the four former
tennis stars, with Graf leading the pack with 22.
“I’m
playing pickleball. And not just any pickleball, I am playing with John McEnroe
against Steffi Graf and Andre Agassi,” she said.
“February
4, in Miami, at the Hard Rock [Hotel and Casino in Hollywood, Florida], it’s
the Pickleball Slam 2,” Sharapova added.
“Dare I say
I’m getting a little competitive, and slightly nervous and anxious?
“But don’t
mind me, I can’t wait to see you there, tune in, watch us, support us. Let’s go
team… what’s our name?”
John
McEnroe surprised by appearing in Sharapova's video and said, “Team Mac. The
Mac Attack is back for Pickleball Slam 2.”
There's
much on the line for these former tennis legends, as the champions of this
event stand to claim a significant $1 million prize. McEnroe, who experienced a
loss in this year's edition alongside Michael Chang, is counting on Sharapova
to bring that winning edge, as Agassi and Andy Roddick emerged victorious last
time.
In a
broader context, the world of pickleball has been gaining immense popularity,
even attracting renowned figures like former Wimbledon finalist Genie Bouchard.
This sport has seen investments from prominent athletes such as Tom Brady,
Patrick Mahomes, and LeBron James, highlighting its growing significance beyond
the tennis world.
Cristhián AvilaTennis Journalist
Cristhián Ávila is a tennis journalist based in Santiago, Chile, and has been part of the TennisUpToDate team since early 2023. He covers the ATP and WTA Tours as well as all four Grand Slams, producing breaking news, match reports, analysis, and regular liveblogs from major tournaments.
His reporting combines statistical analysis with clear explanation, helping readers understand tactical developments, player form, and broader storylines across the tour. Working fluently in both Spanish and English, Cristhián collaborates with an international editorial team and contributes to comprehensive global coverage. As part of his work, he has conducted interviews and media interactions with leading figures in the sport, including Caroline Wozniacki and John McEnroe.
In his journalism, Cristhián places strong emphasis on careful sourcing, editorial accuracy, and updating articles promptly when new, verified information becomes available. His coverage is grounded in research, context, and direct engagement with professional tennis.
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