JOOLA Locks Up Andre Agassi, Announces "Groundbreaking Line of Equipment" Coming
Andre Agassi's immersion into the sport of pickleball continues.
The eight-time Grand Slam tennis champion and one of only five men to complete the career grand slam signed with JOOLA, a global leader in pickleball and table tennis, the company announced on Monday. The announcement comes on the 30th anniversary of Agassi's first U.S. Open win.
The announcement mentions "a groundbreaking line of equipment" from Agassi, which will surely include a signature paddle and other accessories and gear.
"Pickleball is not just a sport; it’s a community, and it’s growing at an incredible pace," said Agassi. "Partnering with JOOLA allows me to bring my experience and dedication to pickleball. Together, we’re going to create something special that reflects our commitment to quality, innovation, and performance."
The Agassi Collection will soon expand to include all-time tennis great Steffi Graf, who is also Agassi's wife. Graf will work with JOOLA to develop her own line of equipment and accessories, designed specifically for female and international players.
"Andre Agassi’s influence on the world of sports is undeniable, and we are honored to partner with him as we take pickleball to new heights," said Richard Lee, CEO & Owner of JOOLA. "This is more than just a partnership; it’s a shared vision for the future of the sport."
Agassi's transition into pickleball has been well documented. He was recently part of a group that invested $8 million in DUPR (Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating).
Adam Forziati
"As an active, passionate pickleball player I know how important it is to play against players at your level for the ultimate enjoyment of the sport," he said as part of the DUPR announcement back in January.
He has also played a part in both of the Pickleball Slams, teaming up with Andy Roddick in Pickleball Slam I to defeat John McEnroe and Michael Chang. This past February he teamed up with Graf to compete against McEnroe and Maria Sharapova.
The Dink Media Team
Agassi's signing with JOOLA comes at an interesting time for both the sport and paddle manufacturers. Former top-ranked tennis player John Isner recently signed with Selkirk, which already has tennis gold medalist Jack Sock on its professional roster. Donald Young also recently signed with Proton while Sam Querrey has a deal with Franklin.
Agassi's passion for pickleball is well known. Back in November he joined the popular "The Pat McAfee Show" to debunk the perceived rift between tennis and pickleball.
Andre Agassi weighs in on the great pickleball vs. tennis debate 👀
— The Dink Pickleball (@Pickleball) November 8, 2023
🎥 @PatMcAfeeShowpic.twitter.com/ihbTLKYbA5
High-profile, accomplished tennis players signing deals with pickleball paddle manufacturers is a great sign for the sport. Agassi coming on board with JOOLA is just the latest in what is sure to be a rush by manufacturers to continue locking up big names to try to grab market share in a very competitive space.
