Welcome to an exclusive Q&A session with pickleball pro, Grayson Goldin, brought to you by PB5star. As an emerging talent in the pickleball community, Grayson has quickly made a name for himself with his dynamic playing style and dedication to the sport. PB5star is proud to sponsor Grayson, supporting his journey and the growth of pickleball.
Grayson shares his unique path into the sport, his thoughts on its rapid rise in popularity, and insights into his training routines and game day rituals. Join us as we dive into the world of pickleball with Grayson Goldin!
Why Pickleball?
Q: How did you get into playing pickleball?
I was playing pickleball in the mornings at Riverstrand Country Club to network for real estate (the average age of a player was around 67!). I found out that they had pro tournaments, so I tried a couple in 2021 but stopped playing because I didn't think the sport was going to go anywhere (the tournaments reminded me of local tennis tournaments)! I was then playing in August 2023 with some real estate investors, and they told me to play pro. I did research on the industry and saw that it had blown up. I played my first tournament in September, and I have been playing full-time since then.
Q: Why do you think pickleball has exploded in popularity?
There is a low barrier to entry; anyone can pick up a paddle and go rally and have a good time. It's not like tennis or golf, which require hours of practice to be able to participate in the fun and joy of playing the sport. It is a modern take on a sport, especially with the smaller court. It attracts a large audience, it is very social, and it is also a great workout! What's not to love?
Q: What do you hope to see evolve that would make the pro sport even better?
I would like to see more infrastructure built with spectators in mind. The sport would be so much better with more viewers. I would also like to see the technology continue to evolve. I wouldn't mind a faster version of the current pickleball so it isn't so boring to watch (think 20 dink rallies).
Training and Playing Like a Pro
Q: What’s your weekly practice routine like?
Drilling, every single day, and mixing in points as well (3-4 hours of pickleball, 1 or 2 practices a day). I also do weight training 4 or 5 times per week and mix in movement and cardio training 3 or 4 times per week.
Q: Take us through your favorite pickleball shot. What's the key to nailing it?
My favorite shot is my serve and forehand. The key to hitting a big serve is using the ground and putting everything you have into the shot. I feel like a lot of players hold back and just try to make the serve.
Q: What’s your game day ritual/routine? What do you listen to so you’re fired up before a game?
I like to have a quiet and calm morning. I will wake up and read my Bible followed by my goals (I do this every morning). I will grab breakfast and listen to music on my way to warm up around an hour and a half before start time. I like to listen to rap or EDM before a match.
Q: What is one of the best community/club vibes you’ve experienced?
I love playing on championship Sunday or in the finals of an event. The energy and the atmosphere on those days can't even compare to the rest of the tournament.
Q: What was a memorable pickleball match for you?
Winning my first gold medal in Cincinnati on the APP tour was special. I won the match 15-12 in the third game, and it came down to the wire. I was not playing very well that day but I was able to get the job done. The lesson I took away was that champions will find a way to win even when they aren't having their best days. They will accept that they can't hit certain shots that specific day and play within the level available that day.
Q: If you could challenge any celebrity or athlete to a pickleball match, who would it be?
I would play with Elon Musk or Roger Federer. Roger was my favorite player growing up and I would love to pick Elon's brain.
Quick Volleys With Grayson:
Last show or movie watched: I watched Dune 2 and that was really good. I enjoyed it a lot.
Favorite Meal: My favorite post-match meal is sushi or a Chipotle burrito.
Pickleball Venue of Choice: The best pickleball venue that I have played at was MLP Atlanta in 2023. I was not playing in the event but I got to play on center court one morning with Steve Kuhn (owner at the time) and some others one morning before the event started. That was also the time I decided I wanted to go all in on pickleball.
Indoor or outdoor pickleble preferred?: I love playing indoors; it is pure. There are no elements that can make the ball move irregularly. It is such a light ball, so the difference is drastic!
Outside the U.S., where would you enjoy going to travel and play pickleball?: Dubai, Singapore, New Zealand, China, or Australia.
From his initial introduction to the sport through networking to his current status as a full-time pro, Grayson's journey is nothing short of inspiring. His insights into the sport's appeal, the importance of community, and the dedication required to excel offer valuable takeaways for players and fans alike. Stay tuned for more exciting updates from Grayson and PB5star as he continues to elevate the game of pickleball!