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Pickleball at the French Open
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Perhaps the time has come when tennis aficionados and pickleball purists are starting to warm up to the idea of coexisting . And what better place for this to happen than in the City of Love : Paris . The two sides are getting along so well in fact at Roland Garros — site of one of tennis ’ major events , the French Open — that the relationship feels like a warm and soft buttery croissant one would grab along the Champs-Élysées . During the tournament , the iconic venue with its famed red clay transformed two of the tennis courts to pickleball courts for people to enjoy the game that is beginning to captivate fans and players alike throughout Europe . While the USA
continues to be the leader in the sport , pickleball ’ s lure is spreading beyond its borders , and with more countries picking up paddles , it is surging toward Olympic recognition .
This year ’ s French Open was played from May 26 to June 9 , with a pickleball court set up first on the Philippe-Chatrier north forecourt , then a second court , Court 5 , played host to pickleball action for the final tournament days .
The French Tennis Federation ( FTF ) has clearly recognized the popularity of the sport of pickleball , announcing that it will unveil a pickleball license for the 2024 / 2025 season . •
CChick-fil-A ’ s Latest Crave
Chick-fil-A is now serving up pickleball with the newly released Pickle Pickle Pickleball Set ($ 70 ), which includes two paddles and balls and a canvas tote . The fast-food restaurant chain is also sponsoring tournaments with a scrumptious grand prize : Free Chick-fil-A for a year ! •
Nettie and Barbie ® Release NLimited Edition
Nettie , a woman-owned pickleball brand , partnered with Mattel Inc .’ s Barbie brand to create a new exclusive collection of paddles and accessories in honor of the iconic doll ’ s 65th anniversary .
The bright and bold collection includes a two-pack paddle set , as well as individual paddles , all made with Nettie ’ s high-quality USA Pickleball approved design materials . The line also includes a branded Barbie x Nettie waterproof sports duffel and waterproof sling bag . Pricing for the collection starts at $ 70 , and products will be available for purchase at Dick ’ s Sporting Goods and online . •
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