Nick Kyrgios Discusses His Growing Interest in Pickleball

Nick Kyrgios has recently opened up about his growing interest in pickleball, describing it as a more welcoming alternative to tennis. He appreciates the sport's culture and is eager to learn more about it. Kyrgios believes that pickleball is rapidly gaining popularity and could potentially surpass tennis in the coming years. Despite his enthusiasm, he admits he hasn't played as much as he would like. This article delves into Kyrgios's insights on the sport and the evolving landscape of tennis.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 17, 2026, 20:57 IST

Kyrgios Shares His Thoughts on Pickleball

Nick Kyrgios has expressed that he finds pickleball to be more inviting compared to tennis, highlighting its vibrant culture as a key aspect. The 32-year-old athlete shared his evolving interest in the sport, stating, “It feels much more inclusive. When I step into a pickleball setting, it’s all about playing together without harsh judgments.” He reflected on his experiences in tennis, saying, “Throughout my career, I’ve faced criticism not just for my gameplay but also for my attire and demeanor,” during an interview on the YouTube channel King of the Court (KOTC).

Kyrgios acknowledged that while he isn’t bored with tennis, he is on the lookout for activities that ignite his passion. “Playing today was enjoyable. There’s so much to learn about the game,” he remarked. He also mentioned his engagement with the pickleball community on social media, noting, “I keep up with pickleball content on Instagram and can name several professional players.”

On the rapid growth of pickleball, Kyrgios commented, “The level of competition is already quite impressive. It’s among the fastest-growing sports globally, and in a few years, it could potentially surpass tennis.” He also noted a shift in the tennis landscape, mentioning, “With Rafa and Roger retiring, and Djokovic nearing the end of his career, many might start exploring other sports.”

Despite his enthusiasm, Kyrgios admitted he hasn’t been able to play pickleball as frequently as he desires. “I wish I could play more. If I dedicate time to it, I want to give it a real shot,” he said, adding, “I enjoy pushing my limits. If I were to play right now, I’d probably struggle.”