Tennis legend Andre Agassi and top-ranked women’s pickleball star Anna Leigh Waters teamed up to claim a hard-fought victory in their debut match at the U.S. Open Pickleball Championships on Wednesday. The duo faced off against rising young talents Stevie Petropouleas, just 13 years old, and 16-year-old Tristan Dussault in a highly competitive Round of 32 matchup that kept fans on the edge of their seats.
The match proved to be anything but easy for Agassi and Waters, as their youthful opponents delivered an impressive performance filled with energy and confidence. Despite their age, Petropouleas and Dussault showed great poise and resilience, managing to steal the second game and push the match to a decisive third set. The experienced pair ultimately prevailed with scores of 11-8, 9-11, 11-7, but not without a serious challenge from the teenage contenders.
Agassi, widely celebrated for his achievements in professional tennis, appeared energized by the new partnership and the atmosphere of elite pickleball competition. Waters, the reigning No. 1 player in women’s pickleball, showcased her world-class skillset and strategic mastery, proving why she’s at the top of the sport. Their combined experience and athleticism gave them just enough edge to overcome the talented young duo.
The win advances Agassi and Waters to the next round, but their narrow escape in this match underscores the level of talent and competition emerging in the pickleball scene. With youth and experience clashing on the court, the U.S. Open Pickleball Championships are clearly shaping up to be a thrilling showcase of the sport’s evolving landscape.
