Valerie Simon: From Injury to Inspiration in Pickleball
A Remarkable Comeback Story
At just 17 years old, Valerie Simon has transformed her life through pickleball after facing numerous injuries. Once a promising junior tennis player, she encountered significant challenges due to injuries to the navicular bone in both feet. Simon underwent two surgeries at the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York City, with the first on her right foot in February 2023, followed by her left foot in May 2024.
Reflecting on her journey, Simon shared, “I experienced intense pain in my right foot, and despite numerous visits to doctors in Florida, they insisted nothing was wrong. After eight MRIs, we finally discovered the truth at HSS—I needed surgery.” The procedure involved inserting titanium rods to mend her injury, leading to a lengthy rehabilitation process. Although she returned to tennis, her left foot eventually fractured, necessitating further surgery and recovery.
It was during this challenging time that pickleball entered her life, introduced by her mother, Daniella. The sport quickly became integral to her recovery and ignited a new passion. “Pickleball has been a blessing. My love for tennis seamlessly transitioned into this sport, and it has exceeded my expectations,” Simon expressed. “It restored my sense of purpose. Being an athlete has always been a part of me, and playing pickleball daily is incredible.”
In January 2026, Simon achieved a significant milestone when she and her sister Victoria joined the Professional Pickleball Association Tour. “Signing with the PPA Tour was monumental for me, especially after months of uncertainty about my ability to play again. I am immensely grateful for this opportunity,” she stated. “This achievement reflects my journey and the challenges I’ve overcome. I’m excited to continue improving.”
In addition to her athletic pursuits, Simon is dedicated to helping others facing medical difficulties through her nonprofit, the Serve for Strength Foundation, which she established in September 2024. “Serve for Strength was created with the hope of making a difference in people’s lives. No one should endure hardship alone,” she noted. “Having faced my own struggles, I wanted to create a supportive community.”
Simon’s foundation focuses on fundraising and community building, particularly through pickleball events. “I love sharing my passion for pickleball and uniting people,” she added. Her journey has also earned her two nicknames: “Bionic Girl,” referencing the titanium rods in her feet, and “Super Girl,” symbolizing her determination. “Every step I take defies the odds, which inspired the nickname ‘Super Girl.’ I aim to empower others to overcome their challenges, just as I have,” Simon concluded.