Maaseik, Belgium – Estée Widdershoven, 27, has made history as the first Belgian athlete to secure a professional contract in the rapidly growing sport of pickleball. Widdershoven signed with the Professional Pickleball Association (PFAA), marking a significant milestone for the sport’s development in Belgium.

From Tennis to Pickleball: A Rising Star

Widdershoven’s journey to professional pickleball began after moving to Georgia, USA, in 2016 to play college tennis. Two years ago, she transitioned to pickleball after accepting a position as a facility manager at an indoor pickleball club. “In 2024, I was offered a job as a facility manager at an indoor pickleball club. My boss convinced me to give the sport a try and that’s how I got into it,” she explained.

She credits her tennis background as a key advantage in her pickleball career, noting that both the technique and timing translate well. “My tennis background is an absolute asset for my pickleball career. Not only the technique, but also the timing comes in handy.”

Pickleball’s Growing Popularity

Pickleball, a sport combining elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, is experiencing a surge in popularity in Belgium. Widdershoven hopes her success will further boost the sport’s profile within the country. “Now I will try to make the sport even more popular in Belgium,” she stated.

The accessibility of pickleball is a major factor in its growth. As Widdershoven describes, “You will find a pickleball court on every street corner in Georgia. It is very accessible, regardless of age or level. You quickly make friends through the sport and that is why it is so much fun.”

A Surprise Contract and Future Ambitions

Widdershoven admitted she was shocked to receive the professional contract offer. “I was in shock, because I haven’t played many tournaments yet,” she said. The contract includes waiving her $750 competitive registration fee and increases her potential for sponsorship deals and prize money.

Despite residing in the United States, Widdershoven remains committed to promoting pickleball in Belgium, utilizing social media and hoping to offer training sessions in the future. “It is not easy to promote the sport from a distance, but I try to do that through my social media. In the future I would like to give training in Belgium to bring American popularity here.”

Olympic Dreams?

With pickleball potentially becoming an Olympic sport in 2032, Widdershoven is optimistic about the future. Having previously competed in the Junior Olympics as a tennis player, she views the Olympics as a pinnacle achievement. “As a tennis player I took part in the Junior Olympics and that will always stay with me. Last year I also took part in the world pickleball championship. The Olympics would be the icing on the cake.”

She believes her age won’t be a disadvantage, as pickleball doesn’t require the same youthful athleticism as tennis. “In 6 years I will be 33, but fortunately that is not a stumbling block in pickleball. I now often play against older opponents. Unlike tennis, in pickleball you do not have to be young to perform at a top level.”

FAQ

• What is pickleball? Pickleball is a paddle sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis.
• Who is Estée Widdershoven? She is the first Belgian athlete to sign a professional pickleball contract with the PFAA.
• Where does Estée Widdershoven currently live? She lives in Georgia, USA.