The Pickleball Slam is a made-for-TV tennis exhibition that will be held in Hollywood, Florida.
At just 40 years old, Roddick is the youngest of the four players (McEnroe is 64, Agassi is 52, and Chang is 51). He also has an additional advantage over the three his impressive serve, which at the height of his career clocked in at 150 miles per hour.
“As I’m walking through the [pickleball] rules, I saw they took away my youth with [limited] movement, and they took away my serve with having to serve underhand,” Roddick said.
So I’m not really sure what’s left.”
He will go up against Chang in the singles round while McEnroe will take on Agassi. Then they will meet in a doubles matches that will be McEnroe-Chang vs. Agassi-Roddick.
“Everyone likes it instantly. It’s pretty well-regarded by people that play it,” Roddick said.
“But you also don’t know if it will ever translate to TV and be a very watchable product without knowing the ins and outs and nuances that, frankly, I don’t know that people have the time to learn.”
With this much smack talk from @andyroddick , how can you not be here for the Slam just to see what @JohnMcEnroe does alone? Good news, tickets are still available! The Pickleball Slam, April 2nd Hard Rock Live At The Seminole! @HardRockHolly @espn pic.twitter.com/UzCkICUsab
— The Pickleball Slam (@pickleballslam) March 26, 2023
Pickelball used to be broadcast via ESPN/ABC but at the moment, the Pickelball Slam is in talks with other competitor networks for the broadcasting rights.