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Culture September 10, 2024
From the fast-paced courts of professional tennis to the growing world of pickleball, Tina Pisnik has made a seamless transition that showcases her enduring love for competition. Once ranked No. 29 in the world in singles, Pisnik’s tennis career included representing Slovenia in the Olympics and capturing titles on the Women’s Tennis Association Tour. However, an unexpected car accident cut her time on the professional tennis circuit short.
Despite the setback, Pisnik never lost her passion for racket sports. In 2022, she discovered pickleball — a sport she initially hesitated to embrace. But once she felt the familiar rush of competition, Pisnik found herself all-in, quickly climbing the ranks of the pickleball world. Today, she competes professionally in Major League Pickleball for the Texas Ranchers, all while balancing her life as a tennis coach and business owner.
Here, Pisnik shares her journey from tennis to pickleball, the challenges and rewards she’s encountered along the way, and her aspirations for her future in the sport.
“I only realize now by looking back that these were really significant achievements that were cut short by the car accident. Along the way, I made lifelong friendships, met amazing people, traveled the world, and gained invaluable life experiences and grit that helped me get through tough days.”
“My competitive drive was a major factor in wanting to compete again. Seeing pickleball’s growing popularity and its similarities to tennis made my decision to transition easier.”
“Physically, tennis and pickleball differ in court size, equipment, and movements. Mentally, while both sports require agility, coordination, and strategic thinking, tennis demands more endurance and power, while pickleball emphasizes quick reflexes and precise control.”
“I love to compete. Although my break from tennis was forced upon me due to a car accident, I feel amazing being able to compete again at a professional level in my 40s.”
“As a second-time player for the Texas Ranchers, my goals are to win matches and rank highly. I aim to contribute to the team’s success not only through my performance but also by being a supportive and motivational teammate.”
Tina’s journey from tennis champion to pickleball star is a testament to her unwavering passion and resilience. Her seamless transition into pickleball not only highlights her adaptability but also her continued drive to excel in competitive sports. As she looks to the future with the Texas Ranchers, Pisnik remains focused on achieving new heights while inspiring others through her remarkable comeback story.
