Nick Kyrgios gives his thoughts on whether pickleball is a threat to tennis

Nick Kyrgios has long been one of tennis’s more polarising figures, and even when he’s not in the spotlight, there always seems to be something keeping him in the conversation.

Injuries have taken their toll on the Aussie, pulling him further away from the main stage. He hasn’t yet found a way back to the kind of form that once made him such a threat on tour.

But there’s been an upside. Away from the daily grind of competition, Kyrgios has put his energy into new ventures outside of tennis.

He’s started up a podcast called Good Trouble and has even begun making moves into pickleball. Some people view it as a rival to tennis, but Kyrgios doesn’t see it that way. Instead, he’s used this new path to build partnerships and tell his story through Tennishead.

Nick Kyrgios shares his thoughts on whether pickleball will compete with tennis

When asked if he thinks pickleball could become a serious threat to tennis, Kyrgios didn’t hesitate to dismiss the idea. “I don’t think so,” he said. “They are very different games, and they shouldn’t try to compete.”

He went on to explain that the two sports don’t need to be at odds and suggested that there’s room for them to work together rather than one overtaking the other.

The 30-year-old added: “It would be unbelievable if, somehow, they came together and held joint events. I do think pickleball probably has a younger reach because it isn’t so ‘corporate,’ you can wear whatever and do whatever.”

There is clearly unfinished business with tennis, however, and Kyrgios exclusively outlined his plans for the French Open and Wimbledon to Tennishead as well.

Nick Kyrgios increases his pickleball presence

It’s interesting to see Kyrgios speak so openly about joining a sport that is far less demanding on the body than tennis, something that fits well with where he is physically right now.

This makes him a good fit for both Picklr and Vulcan, brands he’s recently partnered with.

Talking about what attracted him to these partnerships, Kyrgios shared a bit more detail on why he got involved.

The former world number 13 said: “The Picklr clubs operate — the vibe, the community, and how competitive people were out there — and I was pumped about it!

“I knew I had to be involved somehow. Literally the same thing for Vulcan. The brand is sick. They aren’t trying to be something else; they are disruptive, in my opinion. Just wait to see what they have coming.”

Kyrgios sees strong potential in pickleball’s future and is clearly enthusiastic about helping it grow. He added: “There are Picklr clubs all over America, so look us up and get down to your local club. If there isn’t one in your area, there is a chance one will be built soon!

“The Picklr is expanding to make sure all the picklers out there get their fix. For Vulcan, stay tuned — the team is cooking up some serious stuff to be released soon.”

Nick Kyrgios unveils his new pickleball paddle

One of the more interesting developments for Kyrgios is his new paddle with Vulcan.

The Vulcan CHPT01, a tour-level paddle designed to suit high-level play, is said to complement the seven-time ATP Tour winner’s style.

It offers plenty of power on clean strikes while remaining light enough for the kind of touch play that’s become a signature part of Kyrgios’ game.

Kyrgios himself seemed pleased with the result, saying: “I’m really excited about this one.

“The team was amazing at teaching me the difference in materials and what made a paddle great. Then we tailored it more toward my playing style so it would translate on the smaller court. Built for aggressive play, that’s why it is elongated — easier power.

“But I think my favourite part about it is the weight. If you know my tennis racket, it is one of the lightest on tour, so to have a paddle that is light and generates power makes me feel at home.”

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