The world knows Steffi Graf and Andre Agassi as two of the greatest tennis icons of all time. With a combined 30 Grand Slam singles titles, countless accolades, and an enduring legacy that transcends the sport, they have long been celebrated for their competitive spirit and charisma. But in 2025, the power couple is making headlines not for their tennis prowess, but for their passion for a very different sport—pickleball.
Once considered a recreational pastime for retirees, pickleball has exploded into one of the fastest-growing sports globally, attracting players of all ages and skill levels. And who better to fuel its momentum than two of tennis’ most recognisable names?
A Pandemic Hobby Turned Passion
Graf and Agassi’s pickleball journey began during the pandemic when the world went into lockdown. Tennis courts were shuttered in many areas, and like millions of others, the couple sought ways to stay active, healthy, and connected.
“Pickleball started as a fun way to keep moving during an unusual time,” Agassi has shared in interviews. “But then we fell in love with it. It’s competitive, yet social. It’s accessible but still challenging.”
Today, the duo plays at least three times a week, often inviting friends and neighbours to join in. For Graf, who was known for her relentless focus on the tennis court, pickleball offers a refreshing change of pace. “It’s not just about the game—it’s about the community,” she says. “We’ve met so many wonderful people through pickleball.”
Winning the Pickleball Slam
Their involvement isn’t limited to casual backyard matches. In February 2025, Agassi and Graf headlined the Pickleball Slam, an event that brought together former tennis greats for a high-energy showdown. Competing against other legends, the couple showcased the same determination that once dominated centre courts. The result? A resounding victory.
The win solidified their reputation as serious pickleball enthusiasts and positioned them as ambassadors for the sport’s growth. Fans, too, were thrilled to see their favourite champions back in the limelight—even if it wasn’t on the tennis court.
Social media lit up with videos of their precision shots and playful banter during the Slam. Clips of Agassi delivering his trademark aggressive strokes and Graf’s impeccable footwork circulated widely, proving that their athleticism remains unmatched—even in a new arena.
Taking Pickleball Global
As of August 2025, Graf and Agassi have taken on a bigger mission: bringing pickleball to the world stage. This summer, the couple embarked on an international tour to promote the sport, making stops in countries like Vietnam and China, where interest in pickleball is steadily rising.
“We believe pickleball has the potential to unite communities globally,” Graf shared during a recent press event in Hanoi. “It’s a sport that doesn’t require elite facilities or extensive training, which makes it inclusive and appealing.”
Their appearances abroad have included exhibition matches, training clinics, and grassroots initiatives to introduce pickleball to schools and local communities. In China, they played with aspiring young athletes, sharing tips and stories that blended nostalgia with a sense of new beginnings. In Vietnam, they partnered with local sports authorities to set up pickleball courts in urban parks.
According to Agassi, their efforts go beyond just showcasing a sport. “This is about connection,” he said. “Sports bring people together, and pickleball is perfect for that.”
Life Beyond the Court: Family, Barbecues, and Philanthropy
Despite their busy schedule, Graf and Agassi remain deeply committed to family life. Residing in Las Vegas, they have built a home that reflects their values: warmth, simplicity, and community. Friends and neighbors often find themselves invited to backyard barbecues hosted by the couple. “There’s nothing better than good food, great company, and a little friendly competition on the pickleball court afterward,” Agassi quips.
Their dedication to making a positive impact also extends far beyond sports. Both run foundations focused on helping children—a cause close to their hearts.
• Steffi Graf’s Foundation provides therapeutic care for traumatized children, aiming to restore hope and resilience. Through programs that combine psychological support with recreational activities, the foundation has helped countless young lives heal from adversity.
• The Andre Agassi Foundation for Education has been transforming education for underserved communities for over two decades. By funding innovative schools and programs, Agassi’s foundation continues to break barriers and create opportunities for children who need them most.
These initiatives reflect a shared belief in the power of support, whether through sports, education, or emotional healing. “Our greatest victories aren’t measured in trophies anymore,” Graf says. “They’re measured in the lives we touch.”
The Next Generation: Jaz Agassi at the US Open
While their current passion lies in pickleball, tennis still runs deep in the Agassi-Graf household. Their daughter, Jaz Agassi, has recently made headlines of her own—not on the court, but at the US Open in New York, where she’s been spotted attending matches this August.
Jaz has been sharing her experience on social media, offering fans an inside look at the iconic event. In one standout post, she showcased her father’s legendary tennis sneakers, a nod to Agassi’s trailblazing style during his playing days. The gesture sparked a wave of nostalgia among fans who remember his rebellious charm and colorful outfits.
While Jaz has not pursued a professional sports career, her presence at the US Open reflects the family’s enduring connection to tennis. “It’s part of who we are,” Agassi notes. “Tennis gave us everything, and we’ll always cherish that.”
A Legacy That Keeps Evolving
For many athletes, retirement marks the end of an era. For Steffi Graf and Andre Agassi, it has become the start of a new chapter—one defined by curiosity, generosity, and joy. They have seamlessly transitioned from being global tennis icons to becoming influential voices in a sport that is democratizing athletic participation around the world.
Their story is a reminder that passion knows no boundaries. Whether swinging a tennis racket at Wimbledon or a pickleball paddle in a community park in Vietnam, Graf and Agassi continue to inspire generations—not just through athletic excellence, but through a life lived with purpose.
As they travel the world promoting pickleball, nurture their family, and champion charitable causes, one thing remains clear: this dynamic duo isn’t done making history. They’re simply writing it on a different kind of court.
Why Pickleball, and Why Now?
The rise of pickleball reflects a broader cultural shift toward inclusive, social sports that emphasize connection as much as competition. For Graf and Agassi, that ethos resonates deeply. “We’ve competed at the highest level,” Graf says. “Now we just want to share the joy of the game.”
With their influence, pickleball’s trajectory seems destined for even greater heights. And who knows? The next Pickleball Slam might just become as iconic as the Grand Slam.
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