Kicksaddict: PROFILES Interview Series: Pablo Tellez
Kicksaddict recently caught up with Brooklyn Aces star Pablo Tellez, one of the rising talents in Major League Pickleball. Known for his agility and competitive spirit, Pablo has quickly made a name for himself in the sport. In our exclusive interview, he shares insights into his journey, training regimen, and what it takes to stay at the top of his game. Don’t miss out on this conversation with one of Pickleball’s most exciting players:
Can you tell us a little about your upbringing and how you first got involved in sports? I was born and raised in Colombia! I’m the third of four boy siblings, and my dad was a professional soccer player. I grew up watching my brother play soccer and then tennis so I just followed his footsteps! In 2013 I got an opportunity to come to the US on a tennis scholarship, and I have been in the states ever since.
What was it about pickleball that captured your interest, and when did you decide to pursue it professionally? What got me hooked about Pickleball was that I had fun playing it the very first time in a way that I hadn’t enjoyed tennis in a long time, and I have left the Pickleball court happy ever since. In 2022, I already had that desire to pursue the game professionally because I loved every second of being on the Pickleball court. However, I didn’t have any sponsors so I was trying to figure out the best way to make it work without leaving my full time job. In the middle of the year, my good friend Federico Staksrud was already trying to make a living out of Pickleball professionally, and he helped me get a sponsor that allowed me to play more tournaments that year. After a few good results, I was able to get signed by the PPA tour, and play the sport full time since 2023!
Growing up, did you have any role models in the sports world that influenced your journey? Growing up I was a big fan of Roger Federer and David Ferrer. I specially liked the finesse from Roger and the fight and fire from David.
Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports. What do you think is driving this surge in popularity? I think the fact that is a sport that’s very easy to get started attracts tons of people. When you compare it to tennis, for example, it would take everybody between 4 months to a year of tennis lessons to get into a rally and be able to play games. However, with Pickleball you see noticeable improvements from the very first day, and you can play full games right away.
How do you see the game evolving over the next few years, and what excites you most about its future? I think we are going to see the game expand internationally as much as is growing in the US. What’s exciting is to get to see facilities pop up all over the world, to have the PPA and MLP tours have stops worldwide, to have incredible players pop up in places outside America, as well as recreational players that choose Pickleball as their sport of choice over the traditional sports!
What do you think needs to happen for Pickleball to gain even more mainstream attention, especially on an international level? I think is only a matter of time before it happens, we saw such a fast expansion in the US, but is irrational to think it will happen the same way everywhere. I think the sport is going in the right direction, so more marketing and investment in facilities around the world is the key, because once you play, you are hooked.
How does it feel to be part of Major League Pickleball, especially at such a high- profile event in New York City? The New York City event was by far the best Pickleball event I have been part of. To have Pickleball in the middle of central park with hundreds of fans and celebrities cheering and enjoying a good time around Pickleball is something I’ll never forget!
Can you share some insight into your preparation for this tournament? We have a trainer , his name is Connor, who has helped me level up fitness wise. Also, with the team we did a mini camp in Florida to prepare for the event where we trained double sessions daily as a team for a week before the event.
What role do you see yourself playing in the Brooklyn Aces' strategy and overall performance during this tournament? I’m always looking to compete the best I can, and the team can always rely on me to put up a fight in every match!
You’re the new brand ambassador for LOTTO, and they’ve just launched a Pickleball collection at Dick’s Sporting Goods. What drew you to this partnership, and why did it feel like the right fit for you? I have been a fan of lotto sportswear since I was a kid. They used to sponsor the professional soccer team of both my city and the Colombian soccer team and I love the clothes and footwear. Also, they were partners with David Ferrer, who as I said before, was one of my idols. Therefore, when the opportunity presented to partner up with lotto, I was immediately excited. After initial contact, my team and I realized how good their Pickleball collection is, along with the brand future aspirations within the sport, and that’s when we decided to make it official!
Can you tell us more about your favorite pieces from the LOTTO collection and why they stand out for you both in style and performance? I currently play with the lotto paddle ultimo 16 mm. What I love about it, is the edge-less carbon fiber face that makes it both dynamic and it helps generate a ton of spin. Also, the fact that the handle is long enough to fit both hands is a plus for my 2 handed backhand. I also love being complimented on my clothing at tournaments! And I use two lines of shoes, the mirage, and the raptor, the first one is light and comfy, while the second one provides great containment!
For beginners who are looking to improve their Pickleball game, what are the top tips you would recommend?
Two things! A paddle that complements your natural tendencies, and work on your positioning! Nothing makes you a better player faster than being in the right spot every single point. Therefore, practice being aware if you should have been in a different spot than you were when the point ends.
What is one mistake you commonly see beginner players making, and how can they correct it? Starting to play with what we call a western grip. I’d recommend every beginner player to start off with a continental grip, which is gonna help you so that you don’t develop bad habits when it comes to technique!
Who are your top 5 favorite athletes of all time, and why do they inspire you? Mariana Pajon, she was a multiple Olympic gold medalist from Colombia. Not only was she making millions of Colombians happy, but she also had a smile on her face all the time during competition. Also, Roger Federer, his finesse and elegance are incredible. Rafa Nadal and David Ferrer because of their grit. And lastly, Kobe Bryant, the work ethic is key.
Outside of Pickleball, what do you enjoy doing to stay mentally and physically balanced? I love sports, when I’m not playing Pickleball I am either playing or watching soccer or padel with friends and family, It makes me happy.
Thank you, Pablo, for sharing your time and insights with Kicksaddict.com. Best of luck in the tournament!
You can follow Pablo Tellez on Instagram @pablotellezpb for an inside look at his pickleball journey. Stay updated on his training, matches, and behind-the-scenes moments as he continues to make waves in the sport!
