Andre Agassi and Steffi Graf, two of tennis’s most iconic names, are preparing for a thrilling showdown against Andy Roddick and Eugenie Bouchard in the upcoming Pickleball Slam 3. This friendly-yet-fierce competition will see Agassi and Roddick on opposite sides of the court once again, as they did in the first-ever Pickleball Slam, where Agassi triumphed alongside his partner over tennis greats John McEnroe and Michael Chang. This third edition is scheduled for February 16, 2025, and will take place in Las Vegas at the Michelob Ultra Arena, part of Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino, with a massive $1 million prize on the line.
Ahead of the match, Agassi and Graf issued a friendly “warning” to Roddick and Bouchard, calling them “family” but also reminding them that, come game day, those bonds would be put aside in the competitive spirit. Agassi referred to Roddick as his “younger brother,” underscoring their close relationship, while Graf spoke warmly of the time spent with Bouchard. Despite their camaraderie, both Agassi and Graf were clear that, on February 16, it’s all business. “Andy, you’ve been like a younger brother to me,” Agassi said, while Graf echoed similar sentiments, concluding, “But on February 16, you are the enemy. Can’t wait to see you.”
Agassi and Graf have proven their prowess in pickleball, having dominated the court in Pickleball Slam 2, where they won a decisive 4-0 victory over John McEnroe and Maria Sharapova. With a record like this, it’s no wonder the power couple enters the third event with confidence. Agassi even expressed his excitement to once again play with Graf in his hometown, jokingly noting that the odds would naturally be in their favor in Las Vegas, where they hope to defend their title and capture yet another victory. “I almost feel a little sorry for Andy and Genie,” Agassi humorously added.
Not one to back down, Roddick had his own quip ready in response. Reminding Agassi of their previous collaboration, he asserted that he had “carried” Agassi to the first Pickleball Slam win and that this time, Agassi wouldn’t have the same advantage. Roddick’s confidence shone through as he acknowledged his partner, Bouchard, while admitting that he sees Graf as the tougher competitor. He remarked, “For Slam 3, I’m actually more concerned about Steffi—she’s a force to be reckoned with! Genie and I are ready to defy the odds.”
Bouchard, for her part, has also shared her enthusiasm for the upcoming face-off, noting that it promises to be an “epic” match. The lighthearted banter and playful rivalry between the teams add to the anticipation, drawing fans from both tennis and pickleball into the excitement.
With two legendary teams, a major prize, and the spotlight of Las Vegas, Pickleball Slam 3 is shaping up to be a must-watch event. Agassi and Graf may hold the title for now, but Roddick and Bouchard are eager to test their mettle and potentially pull off an upset. As the date draws near, fans can expect the competitive atmosphere to ramp up even more, setting the stage for a thrilling showdown between these tennis legends-turned-pickleball rivals.