URGENT UPDATE: In a stunning display of talent and determination, 13-year-old Kelly Goodnow has just been crowned a world champion in pickleball! Competing at the Carvana PPA World Championships in Dallas, Goodnow captured the singles title in her division, solidifying her status as one of the sport’s brightest young stars.
Pickleball is surging in popularity, with nearly 20 million people in the U.S. participating in 2024, marking a remarkable 45% increase from the previous year. Goodnow’s victory is particularly exciting as she has only been playing for a year, and her rise to fame exemplifies the sport’s rapid growth.
“I’m on the court maybe 5 or 6 days a week, so I’m definitely committed,” Goodnow said, reflecting on her rigorous training schedule. The young athlete’s passion for the game ignited when her mother introduced her to pickleball. “I fell in love with the sport too,” she shared.
Goodnow’s championship match was nothing short of dramatic. Down 2-8 in the singles final, she faced significant pressure but rallied to win against top seed Jing Robinson. “I had to tell myself to keep fighting, keep digging,” she recounted. Her father, James Goodnow, couldn’t contain his pride: “I seriously had a tear come out of my eye, because I know how hard Kelly has worked.”
Her mother, Erin Goodnow, expressed her excitement, saying, “It’s such a thrill… most of the time I’m holding my breath.” The family’s support has been pivotal in Kelly’s journey, and they are eager to see what comes next.
Looking ahead, Goodnow is set to participate in her first professional qualifier event, a significant step that could pave the way for her to become one of the youngest professional pickleball players in the country. Her coach, Ashlee Candelari, is thrilled about the future: “We’re extremely excited, and this will set the tone for the rest of the year.”
Training out of her backyard in the Valley, Goodnow has already secured sponsorships with Proton Sports and SParms, showcasing her growing presence in the sport. “It’s surreal to me that I’m doing this,” she said, reflecting on her rapid ascent in pickleball.
As Goodnow gears up for her upcoming events, her journey serves as an inspiration to athletes everywhere. Congratulations to Kelly Goodnow on her incredible achievement, and best of luck as she continues to break barriers in pickleball! Stay tuned for more updates on this rising star.
