Novak Djokovic will play in a pickleball tournament on Thursday in New York just weeks after he claimed the sport was “endangering” and taking away from tennis.
Novak Djokovic appears to have reversed his stance on a matter where he previously disagreed with Andre Agassi.
The current US Open champion is preparing to defend his title at Flushing Meadows. However, prior to the commencement of the final major tournament of the year this weekend, Djokovic is scheduled to participate in a pickleball tournament organized by his sponsor, Head, on Thursday, August 22.
The sport of pickleball has gained significant traction, especially in the United States, over recent years. Yet, just last month at Wimbledon, following his victory over Alexei Popyrin in the third round, Djokovic expressed concerns that pickleball poses a threat to tennis.
He called on tennis authorities to reconsider their approaches, stating: “Tennis is a truly global sport, cherished by millions of children who aspire to play, yet we fail to make it accessible and affordable.”
He continued, “With the rise of padel, which is becoming increasingly popular, people enjoy it and often say, ‘but tennis is tennis.’ While it is true that tennis reigns supreme among racket sports, at the club level, it is at risk.”
Djokovic warned, “If we do not take action, as I mentioned, on a global or collective scale, sports like padel and pickleball in the United States will lead to the transformation of tennis clubs into facilities for these more economically viable options.”
He elaborated, “One tennis court can be converted into three padel courts. The financial benefits for club owners are evident.”
Djokovic’s perspective diverges from that of his former coach Agassi, who has emerged as a prominent advocate for pickleball. Djokovic believes that while both sports can coexist, pickleball serves a distinct purpose that tennis does not fulfill.
The eight-time Grand Slam champion articulated: “When you have a weekend tennis match and I offer you tickets to see Alcaraz and Nadal competing nearby, you are likely to forgo your match in favor of watching them play. However, if I mention that the top players in pickleball are competing down the street, your response would be, ‘What about us? We want to play.’ This sport truly emphasizes participation.
“I enjoy watching pickleball, but only until I reach the point where I feel compelled to join in. I have witnessed pickleball rejuvenate numerous tennis clubs, as it attracts people to come and play. This sport fosters cultural exchange and dismantles barriers. It is about community and inclusivity; anyone can participate.”
Djokovic’s commitment to sponsorship will compel him to experience pickleball for the first time. He will be joined by fellow tennis athletes Jannik Sinner and Barbora Krejcikova, along with pickleball professionals Callie Smith and Roscoe Bellamy, in New York tomorrow.
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