For anyone who doesn’t think Pickleball can provide a real workout or doesn’t require athleticism, they just aren’t playing at a high enough level. Some say the same about golf, that you don’t have to be a great athlete to play at a high level. Most (not all) high level golfers and Pickleball players will beg to differ. Pickleball for sure is drawing in much better athletes and for that reason the game is already changing. Golf did the same.
I watched John McEnroe play in that Pickleball match. I love John, one of the greatest tennis players ever, BUT he is not very good at Pickleball. From what I saw on TV, compared to the players I play with, I would put him at a 4.0 and not much higher. He would’t make our top court in our doubles games. Those that play the game know what I am talking about. He could obviously be great IF he embraced the game, and might give it more respect but as of now, his game needs work
He wouldn’t score a point off the best players out there and most 4.5s would kick his butt especially if they didn’t know he was John McEnroe.
As I said earlier, the game has sound issues. In time I think they will lessen as they are already working on quieter paddles etc. But don’t say it does not require athletic talent. Play a 4.5 or 5.0 player and then draw your conclusion.