Ivan Lendl Quietly Dominates US Open Pickleball, Captures Double Gold

While Andre Agassi’s presence at the US Open Pickleball Championships turned heads, it was another tennis legend who quietly made waves—and secured two gold medals in the process. Ivan Lendl, the eight-time Grand Slam champion, brought his formidable skills to the 65+ divisions, winning both men’s doubles and mixed doubles without fanfare.

Agassi’s participation garnered the lion’s share of media attention, but his foray into the pro circuit felt more like a nostalgic cameo than a competitive run. At 55, Agassi looked every bit his age as he struggled to keep pace with today’s elite players. His previous exhibition matches were entertaining, showcasing his charismatic personality and enduring love for the sport. But in the pro circuit, he appeared visibly outmatched, a shadow of the tennis great who once dominated the courts.

Source: Tennisuptodate.com

Agassi’s Struggles: A Reminder Of Time’s Toll

Watching Agassi attempt to compete against younger, faster, and sharper opponents was a stark contrast to the Agassi who once ruled tennis with his explosive returns and precision shots. The matches were a reminder that while pickleball can be a welcoming sport for players of all ages, the intensity at the pro level is nothing to underestimate.

For those who idolized Agassi, seeing him visibly fatigued and unable to keep up may have been a sobering experience. Exhibitions and senior-level competitions may offer a more suitable stage for the former world number one, where his charisma and shot-making can still shine without the relentless pace and pressure of elite pro-level play.

Lendl’s Approach: Playing Where He Belongs

While Agassi’s competitive return left much to be desired, Lendl’s participation was a masterclass in how to transition from a tennis legend to a competitive pickleball player in a way that respects both the sport and his legacy.

Lendl, who played exclusively in the 65+ divisions, didn’t just participate—he dominated. His doubles matches were a display of vintage Lendl: precise backhands, deft volleys, and strategic shot placement that revealed flashes of the skill that once secured him Grand Slam titles.

In the men’s doubles 65+ category, Lendl moved with the controlled athleticism that allowed him to maintain his position at the net, dictating the pace and neutralizing opponents with well-placed dinks and cross-court drives. His mixed doubles performance was equally impressive, underscoring his adaptability and finesse as he coordinated seamlessly with his partner.

The Spirit Of Pickleball: Competing For The Love Of The Game

Lendl’s understated approach resonated with the core ethos of pickleball—a sport that encourages players of all ages to stay active, compete, and build community. He may not have been the marquee name that Agassi was, but his performance spoke volumes.

Lendl’s decision to play in the 65+ bracket was not just about winning gold; it was a demonstration of what pickleball can be for senior athletes—a competitive outlet that celebrates skill, strategy, and experience over raw power and speed.

A Path Forward For Agassi?

Agassi’s future in pickleball remains uncertain. While his exhibitions have been fun and engaging, his US Open performance suggests that the pro circuit may not be the ideal fit. However, there is a promising path forward.

Pickleball’s masters’ divisions are ripe for development, and players like Agassi and Lendl have the star power to elevate them to a new level of prominence. By embracing his age group, Agassi could not only preserve his legacy but also inspire a generation of former tennis stars and aging athletes to take up pickleball competitively.

Imagine a dedicated Masters Circuit, featuring legends like Agassi and Lendl, showcasing that even in their senior years, they can still dazzle with their technique and court savvy.

In the end, Lendl’s success and Agassi’s struggles serve as a compelling narrative for how legends can transition to pickleball—a sport that welcomes all ages but requires players to understand their strengths, limitations, and where they best fit.

Lendl found his place and thrived. The question now is: will Agassi do the same?