Brooke Buckner has emerged as one of the most dynamic and inspiring figures in professional pickleball. Known for her powerful baseline drives, strategic gameplay, and relentless competitive spirit, Buckner has quickly risen through the ranks to become a standout athlete on the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) Tour and Major League Pickleball (MLP).
Brooke Buckner Early Life
Born on April 8, 1992, in Cleveland, Ohio, Brooke Buckner spent most of her childhood in Delray Beach, Florida, where her passion for sports took root. From a young age, she displayed a natural aptitude for athletics, but it was tennis that initially captured her heart. Buckner’s tennis career was nothing short of remarkable, culminating in her time at the University of Michigan, where she graduated in 2015 as the program’s all-time leader in singles (112), doubles (121), and combined wins (233). She was a four-time All-Big Ten First Team selection and earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education.
Her tennis background laid a strong foundation for her transition to pickleball. Buckner credits her college-level tennis experience for preparing her for the high-pressure environment of professional competition, stating, “Tennis helped me prepare for the pressure that comes with playing at a professional level in pickleball and instilled the work ethic it takes to compete at the highest level.” After college, she served as an assistant coach for women’s tennis at West Michigan, Yale, and UNC Charlotte, further honing her understanding of competitive sports.
Brooke Buckner: Transition to Pickleball
Brooke Buckner’s entry into pickleball began in October 2020, just months after the birth of her son, Lucas. What started as a new athletic challenge quickly became a passion. Her tennis-honed skills, agility, precision, and strategic court coverage translated seamlessly to the pickleball court, allowing her to make an immediate impact. Within a short time, Buckner was competing in local and regional tournaments, showcasing her potential as a rising star.
Her aggressive playing style, combined with her ability to adapt and refine her game, propelled her onto the national stage. Buckner’s versatility in both singles and doubles, along with her powerful baseline drives, made her a formidable competitor. By 2024, she had established herself as one of the top women’s singles players in the sport, known for her ability to challenge even the best in the game, including World No. 1 Anna Leigh Waters.
Brooke Buckner: Career and Milestones
Brooke Buckner’s professional pickleball career is marked by significant achievements that highlight her rapid rise and competitive prowess. As of February 2025, she has competed in 31 professional tournaments, participating in a total of 281 pro matches. Below is a table summarizing some of her key accomplishments:
| Year | Achievement | Event |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | Began playing pickleball | N/A |
| 2023 | Won back-to-back gold medals in Mixed Doubles | NC Body Armor Games |
| 2024 | First PPA Tour singles gold medal | Veolia LA Open |
| 2024 | Competed in UPA Lapiplasty World Championships | PPA Rate Championships Las Vegas |
| 2025 | No. 3 seed in women’s singles, faced Anna Leigh Waters in final | Humana Championship |
| 2025 | Inaugural Agassi x JOOLA signature athlete | PPA Tucson Open |
Notable Performances
- Veolia LA Open (2024): Buckner secured her first PPA Tour singles title, defeating Lauren Stratman 11-8, 11-0. Her relentless attacking style and powerful drives dominated the match, marking a significant milestone in her career.
- Humana Championship (2025): In a thrilling women’s singles final, Buckner pushed Anna Leigh Waters to the brink, leading 9-4 in the second game before Waters mounted a comeback. Buckner’s improved play at the kitchen line showcased her evolving game.
- Agassi x JOOLA Partnership (2025): Buckner debuted the Agassi Pro pickleball paddle as the first-ever Agassi x JOOLA signature athlete, a testament to her growing influence in the sport.
Playing Style and Equipment
Buckner is renowned for her powerful baseline drives, which she initially relied on heavily. However, her game has evolved to include strong play at the kitchen line, making her a more versatile and dangerous opponent. She explained, “As the depth of women’s singles has gotten so much better, I knew that I wasn’t going to get by just passing people from the baseline because that’s what I relied on so heavily.”
Her equipment of choice includes the Simone Hyperion 14mm Swift paddle, which she uses with her right hand to deliver precise and powerful shots. In 2025, she partnered with JOOLA, debuting the Agassi Pro paddle, designed to complement her aggressive and dynamic playing style.
Personal Life: Family and Relationships
Brooke Buckner’s personal life is as inspiring as her professional achievements. She is married to Adam Buckner, and together they have three children Lucas, Ellie, and a third child born in November 2023. Balancing motherhood with a demanding professional career is no small feat, and Buckner credits her support system in Concord, North Carolina, for enabling her to compete at the highest level.
Her family plays a significant role in her motivation. Buckner’s journey into pickleball began shortly after Lucas’s birth, and her ability to return to elite competition after her third child’s birth in 2023 demonstrates her resilience and dedication. While she keeps much of her personal life private, her commitment to family and sport has made her a role model for aspiring athletes.
Brooke Buckner Net Worth
Brooke Buckner’s net worth is estimated to be over $4 million as of 2023, according to some sources. This figure is attributed to her tournament winnings, sponsorships, and endorsements, including her high-profile partnership with JOOLA. However, pickleball’s financial rewards are not as substantial as those in more established sports, and exact figures for her earnings remain undisclosed.
Her financial success is bolstered by lucrative deals, such as her Agassi x JOOLA partnership, and potential real estate investments. Reports suggest that Brooke and her husband rented a Los Angeles house for $25,000 per month and own properties in New York’s West Village and Southampton. As pickleball grows in popularity, Buckner’s earning potential is expected to increase.
Influence and Legacy
Brooke Buckner’s influence extends beyond the court. With over 1.2k Instagram followers, she engages with fans and promotes the sport’s growth. Her partnership with Andre Agassi and Steffi Graf through JOOLA positions her as an ambassador for pickleball, aiming to inspire the next generation. Buckner stated, “My name is part of the Agassi and Graf pickleball story, and that means taking my game to a level it’s never been before.”
Her story of transitioning from tennis to pickleball, balancing motherhood, and achieving professional success resonates with athletes and fans alike. As pickleball continues to gain traction, Buckner is poised to leave a lasting legacy in the sport.
Recent Developments and Future Prospects
As of April 2025, Brooke Buckner remains a top contender in professional pickleball. Her recent performances, including her competitive showing against Anna Leigh Waters and her role as an Agassi x JOOLA athlete, underscore her growing prominence. She continues to compete in major tournaments, with upcoming events likely to include the 2025 PPA Tour and MLP seasons.
Looking ahead, Buckner’s future in pickleball is bright. Her focus on refining her game, securing high-profile endorsements, and inspiring others positions her as a leader in the sport. Fans can expect her to challenge for more titles and elevate pickleball’s global profile.
FAQs
How old is Brooke Buckner?
Brooke Buckner’s exact age hasn’t been publicly disclosed, but she is in her athletic prime and continues to perform at a high level in professional pickleball.
What is Brooke Buckner’s height?
Brooke Buckner stands at an average height for a female athlete, which complements her agility and speed on the pickleball court.
When did Brooke Buckner start playing pickleball?
Brooke began her pickleball career by participating in local tournaments before eventually competing at the national level.
What is Brooke Buckner’s net worth?
While her exact net worth is not publicly known, Brooke likely earns money through tournament winnings, sponsorships, and endorsements.
Is Brooke Buckner active on social media?
Yes, Brooke is active on social media platforms like Instagram, where she shares updates on her career, training routines, and personal life.
Conclusion
Brooke Buckner’s journey from a decorated college tennis player to a professional pickleball star is a testament to her talent, determination, and passion. With a growing list of achievements, a supportive family, and influential partnerships, she is redefining what it means to be a pro pickleball player. As she continues to compete and inspire, Brooke Buckner is undoubtedly a name that will remain at the forefront of the sport for years to come.
For the latest updates on Brooke Buckner’s career, follow her on Instagram or visit the PPA Tour website. Stay tuned for more exciting developments from this pickleball powerhouse.
