PRO-file by ALICE TYM
Behind the Scenes with Pro
IGNACIO de ELIA
IGNACIO(“ NACHO”) AND HIS FAMILY LIVE IN TAMPA, FLORIDA. HE IS PART OF THE GROWTH OF THE SPORT IN LATIN AMERICA AND SEES NO CEILING. HE WILL BE PLAYING IN VIETNAM LATER THIS YEAR.
Hometown: Buenos Aires, Argentina Current Residence: Tampa, Florida
Age: 39
Education: Undergrad at Torcuato Di Tella, Master’ s at San Andrés, MBA exchanges at Kellogg School of Management and at FGV in Brazil
Employment: Brand CFO at Fleming’ s Prime Steakhouse Marital Status: Married, one son DUPR Rating: 5.1 doubles, 5.5 singles Favorite Shot: Forehand drive and backhand roll
You are 6 feet, 6 inches tall. How do you use your height to your advantage? I extend as much as I can to capitalize on high balls.
Describe your sports background. I played junior tennis and was in the top 30 in Argentina. I played semi-pro beach tennis representing Argentina in the ITF Pro Pan American Games. I also play competitive padel where I represented the United States and medaled in the 2025 Pan American Games( Amateur-Open level).
What about soccer? I played soccer until I turned 11. Then I started playing tennis. Tennis is the best foundation for pickleball because it is an easier transition, especially in singles. Table tennis also gives you a great advantage for doubles at the net.
What drew you to pickleball? I was training for the USTA Nationals. I hurt my wrist in late 2020, so I started to play pickleball left-handed.
What do you see for the future of pickleball? There is no ceiling. The growth worldwide is mostly driven by the U. S. and Asia now. When the news of money in the game came, pickleball exploded internationally. Now Vietnam, India, China and Malaysia have great tournaments and good players.
What is your training regimen? I don’ t have a trainer, but I do go to the gym. I stretch every day and lift weights three times a week. On the court, I mix drilling with practice games, both full court and skinny singles. Tomorrow I am playing a local Moneyball tournament at night after work.
Do you have a special diet? I am Argentinian! I love beef. I am a steak and potatoes guy.
What changes would you like to see in pickleball? I would like to see pickleball in college. It needs to start in middle and high school. I would love to see it in the Olympics.
What would you do to promote pickleball in Latin America? We all need to do our part. From my standpoint, I hosted a qualifying event in Tampa for two spots at the World Cup last year. We currently have 1,200 active players in Argentina. The participation of Argentina at international events like the Pickleball World Cup in Vietnam later this year and WPC China are important to motivate local players to compete and elevate the level of the game.
It is important to note that Federico Staksrud, who reached # 1 PPA player in both singles and men’ s doubles, has been an inspiration to many players in Argentina— and when he visits Argentina, he connects with local players and helps promote the growth of the sport.
What principle do you live by? Staying positive. Being a good and kind person in every situation. •
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