Former tennis champion Andy Roddick is making a surprising pivot to acting by joining Ben Stiller in a new pickleball comedy called The Dink. The film will follow Jake Johnson as a washed-up tennis pro who reluctantly plays pickleball to win back his father’s respect. The cast also features Hollywood heavyweights Mary Steenburgen and Ed Harris. Stiller and Roddick are expected to play significant supporting roles, marking a big moment for the tennis star’s acting career. Production begins in November, and the film will be available on Hulu.

The upscale retirement community of Rossmoor has become a microcosm of growing political tensions nationwide, escalating after a heated pickleball brawl over Donald Trump. A physical altercation between two women ignited deeper issues around free speech, leading to the imposition of restrictions on political commentary and public demonstrations. Critics argue these policies infantilize seniors, likening them to being in a high school cafeteria. The dispute reveals broader concerns about curbing dissent in a community historically active in civil rights movements.

Pickleball is more than just a fun pastime—it offers numerous health benefits for players of all ages. The game helps boost cardiovascular fitness by keeping your heart pumping and muscles engaged, improving overall strength and endurance. Additionally, the social aspect of pickleball enhances mental well-being, making it an excellent activity for both body and mind. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced player, it’s a low-impact sport that can be enjoyed by everyone while promoting physical fitness and social connections.

If you’re looking to master the lob shot in pickleball, there are two simple strategies that can drastically improve your game. First, aim your lobs to your opponent’s backhand, making it harder for them to smash the ball. Many players struggle with power on their non-dominant side, giving you an advantage. Second, consider when to hit the lob. Disguising it during a dink rally, especially when your opponent expects a speed-up shot, is key to catching them off-guard and scoring easy points.

Pickleball is taking over the National Mall once again, with the highly anticipated return of the National Mall of Pickleball from September 27-29. Hosted by The Trust for the National Mall and Humana, this event will feature tournaments, clinics, and open play at the JFK Hockey Fields. With additional courts added this year, spots are expected to fill up fast. Players can now register for a free hour of doubles play, with paddles and balls available at no cost. Special events include a DMV invitational, university matches, and media competitions.

I had great expectations when it came to our years as empty nesters. I had heard it was the best time in a marriage, a period to travel the world, reconnect as a couple, sleep late on weekends unapologetically. But last year, my husband discovered pickleball.

Private pickleball courts may be the next target in the ongoing noise war, and Ross, CA, could be leading the charge. The affluent Marin County town is mulling a ban on private courts due to the sport’s incessant noise, which reaches twice the volume of tennis. With public complaints already stacking up across the country, this may signal a broader trend. As pickleball’s popularity grows, so do the conflicts with non-players, potentially setting the stage for stricter court regulations nationwide.

Pickleball may seem straightforward, but some rules trip up even seasoned players. From calling the ball out to navigating the kitchen line, these common mistakes lead to frustration on the court. One major confusion revolves around calling a ball “out”—players must see a clear space between the ball and the line. Serving rules also baffle players, especially regarding height and the kitchen line. Understanding these rules not only keeps games fair but also helps build confidence when dealing with disputes.

If you want to take your pickleball game to the next level, drilling at home or against a wall can be an excellent way to practice and refine your skills. While nothing beats time on the court, at-home drills can significantly improve touch, reflexes, and Top Spin, all while offering the flexibility of solo practice. With a focus on technique, consistency, and precision, these drills allow you to maintain and elevate your pickleball skills, preparing you for intense rallies and strategic points when you hit the court. Let’s explore the best drills to enhance your game.

Pickleball requires a mix of agility, timing, and strategic decision-making. To dominate the court, you must master key movements and responses for different game situations. Below are some essential strategies every advanced player should know, including shot choices, positioning, and how to handle different opponent tactics.

The 2025 professional pickleball calendar is shaping up to be a monumental year for fans of the sport. The Association of Pickleball Players (APP) has announced an impressive lineup of 14 main tour stops, along with 20 new events and 8 NextGen competitions. Meanwhile, the Pro Pickleball Association (PPA) is planning an equally full slate, including a new “Challenger” tour. On top of that, the Major League Pickleball (MLP) is expected to host 12-14 events, while the newly introduced Pickleball World Ranking (PWR) promises major prize pools.

Quick hands are essential for mastering volleys in pickleball, and it all starts with your paddle position. The optimal stance involves holding the paddle at the 11 o’clock position, favoring your backhand. This stance allows players to react quickly to body shots and switch to forehands efficiently. Whether the ball is coming fast or slow, maintaining a stable ready position reduces unnecessary movement and helps you stay in control.

Driving versus dropping the ball in pickleball can significantly impact the outcome of a rally. Driving is ideal when the ball is short and high, allowing you to apply pressure on your opponents. However, if the ball is short and low, it’s better to drop it, keeping the pace slow. If your opponent is late getting to the kitchen line, a drive can capitalize on their vulnerability, while topspin or backspin from your opponent may also influence whether you opt for a drive or a drop.

Jack Sock’s transition from tennis to pickleball is highlighted by his forehand technique, blending power, precision, and deception. His forehand is built on five key elements: footwork, grip, unit load, swing motion, and follow-through. Sock uses his legs to generate power, often adopting an open or semi-closed stance. By stepping into the ball with his dominant leg and maintaining a continental grip, Sock can disguise his shots, making it difficult for opponents to predict whether he’ll hit down-the-line or cross-court. His forehand’s explosive motion comes from a compact swing, where he rotates through his hips and keeps his paddle face slightly downward during the swing.

More and more homeowners with private pickleball courts are discovering a way to turn their passion for the game into a lucrative side business. By listing their courts on apps like Swimply, they’re able to share their amenities with others and earn extra income in the process. Take Michael Thompson, for instance, a retired teacher in San Diego, who built a vibrant backyard pickleball court. What started as a personal retirement project quickly turned into a profitable venture, bringing in $1,600 in the first year alone through rentals.

Donald Young, a former tennis prodigy turned professional pickleball player, made a surprising return to tennis during the 2024 US Open in the mixed doubles category. Partnering with Taylor Townsend, they advanced to the semifinals after several electrifying matches. This comeback highlighted Young’s last moment in competitive tennis, as he’s now focused on pickleball. Despite their efforts, the duo fell short in the finals, marking the end of Young’s tennis career, but reminding fans of his enduring athletic prowess.

The Ed Brown Center is making another bid to bring pickleball courts to Rancho Bernardo Community Park, proposing a plan to construct 16 courts on a site previously used for lawn bowling. Despite initial opposition and a plan for a multi-recreational grass field, the center's board is determined to try again, fueled by community support and a petition boasting over 1,500 signatures. With funding fully pledged and an estimated 90-day construction timeline for phase one, advocates hope this time their vision for a pickleball haven will be realized.

Nestled in the picturesque surroundings of Bainbridge Island, Washington, lies a special place that every pickleball enthusiast dreams of visiting—the birthplace of the sport itself. On any given day, regardless of the weather, the Founders Courts are abuzz with players from all walks of life, from seasoned athletes to college students enjoying their break. This isn’t just a place to play pickleball; it’s a community built on the legacy of the game’s origin. Whether you’re here to pay homage to the original court or to soak in the rich history displayed at the Founders Courts, Bainbridge Island offers a unique pilgrimage experience for all who have fallen in love with pickleball.

As the 2024 US Open Tennis Championship takes center stage in Flushing Meadows, Hamptonites are embracing their own racquet sport frenzy at a new wave of exclusive clubs that blend high-end wellness with top-notch sports facilities. These aren’t your grandfather’s country clubs; they’re chic, social hubs where members are treated to more than just beautifully maintained courts—they’re indulged with stunning views, luxurious spas, personal trainers, and Michelin-starred dining experiences. NAOA in East Hampton, a prime example, offers an elite experience where $30,000 initiation fees and $12,000 annual dues grant access to ten tennis courts, four pickleball courts, and a full suite of wellness amenities.

The Arizona Pickleball League has taken center stage in a new docuseries, “Breaking Pickleball,” now streaming on Amazon Prime. This six-episode series offers an in-depth look at the Scottsdale-based league’s inaugural Spring 2023 season, following five competitive teams: The Scottsdale Scorchers, Gilbert Gladiators, Peoria Pythons, Tempe Tornadoes, and Surprise Stinger. The series captures the intense journey of each team as they battle through the regular season and playoffs, culminating in the Orchard Championship Cup. “Breaking Pickleball” is not just a documentary about the sport but a heartfelt exploration of the determination and passion driving these players to be the best.