Genie Bouchard has admitted to feeling the pressure ahead of the upcoming Pickleball Slam clash, where she teams up with Anna Leigh Waters to face Andre Agassi and James Blake in a high-profile ESPN event.
Speaking ahead of the contest, Bouchard highlighted the growing stature of pickleball on the global stage.
“Oh, I’m so excited. I think it’s really cool to see that pickleball has (not only) that huge amateur net of people around the country obsessed, but also these huge moments of prime time on ESPN, these kind of glamorous events. And so, you know, I’m honored to be a part of it. I think it’s really cool.
The Canadian, however, was candid about her own role in the star-studded lineup.
“I’m the worst player by far out of all four of us. Luckily, I have the best player on my team. And I love a good old-fashioned battle of the sexes. You know, we’re bringing back vibes from queen Billie Jean from back in the day and her epic match. And so, you know, this is the modern pickleball version of that,” she told Athlon Sports.
Despite the exhibition nature of the event, Bouchard admitted that the stakes feel real
“Oh, so much pressure. I practiced last night til like 9 p.m. because I’m starting to feel stressed. I really don’t want to embarrass myself because of my partner, because she’s so good. Like I want to not drag her down. I will drag her down – the question is just how much, and I’m just trying to limit that.
She added that having Anna Leigh Waters on her side gives her confidence heading into the clash
“I do think because she’s so good, you know, I’m confident in our team. We’re playing guys who are a little older than us. And so hopefully we can use that to our advantage.
Bouchard also revealed her thoughts on the opposition, admitting uncertainty over James Blake’s level
“I wasn’t sure about James’ level. I’ve known Andre for many years in the tennis world and now through pickleball. And he is totally obsessed. And so I know he practices a lot. I wasn’t sure about James’ level, but I heard he’s actually good and potentially better than Andre. So that made me a little nervous.. ”
The Pickleball Slam will see some of the biggest names across tennis and pickleball come together, with Bouchard embracing both the glamour and the pressure of the moment.