Cleo Bond's Viral Moment: A New Star in Pickleball Emerges

Cleo Bond Returns to the PPA Tour

Australian athlete Cleo Bond, who turned professional in 2025, made her comeback to the PPA Tour at the Carvana Mesa Cup after a lengthy hiatus. Unfortunately, she faced an early exit in the women's singles, losing to Lina Padegimaite in straight games with scores of 11-3 and 11-0. However, the match took an unexpected turn when a clip showcasing her performance went viral on social media, drawing significant attention.

Despite the lopsided score, the video resonated with viewers, leading to a surge in Bond's followers and recognition as a rising star in the sport. "I’m not sure why that video became so popular. I only managed to score three points," Bond remarked. "But it was probably the happiest I’ve felt after a loss. It made the defeat much easier to handle." The newfound fame even caught the eye of Canadian rapper Drake, who followed her on Instagram following the video's success.

Bond expressed her gratitude for the attention but emphasized that her focus on improving her game remains unchanged. "I don’t feel any different. I’m still grounded and have the same energy. My Instagram just looks cooler now," she stated. She reassured fans that the viral moment has not added pressure to her journey. "I’m just learning, playing, and getting better," she added.

Moreover, Bond's experience has strengthened her commitment to her path in sports. "I’m very clear on my purpose, so the attention doesn’t distract me. It just shows that I’m on the right track," she explained. Outside of her athletic pursuits, Bond co-founded Waev, a swimwear and athletic wear brand in 2020, and aims to inspire others through her story. "My purpose isn’t only sports-related. I want to inspire people and share my story one day," she concluded.

While her performance at the Mesa Cup may not have been ideal, Bond's rising profile both on and off the court adds a new layer to her professional journey.