Steffi Graf Addresses Pickleball Commitment and Charitable Endeavors

# Steffi Graf Addresses Pickleball Commitment and Charitable Endeavors

## A New Chapter in Pickleball

On August 15, 2025, tennis legend Steffi Graf released a statement addressing her continued commitment to pickleball and her ongoing charitable work, dispelling rumors and reaffirming her dedication to both sport and philanthropy. The 22-time Grand Slam champion, now 56, has transitioned from dominating tennis courts to embracing pickleball, a sport she and her husband, Andre Agassi, have taken up with enthusiasm. Her statement, shared via social media and reported by outlets like steffi-graf.net, clarified her active involvement in the Joola 2025 Pickleball Legends Tour and her nonprofit, Children for Tomorrow.

## Setting the Record Straight

Graf’s statement came in response to a wave of misinformation, including false death hoaxes and rumors of her stepping away from public life. A fabricated report in August 2025 claimed Graf had passed away, sparking widespread concern among fans until her representatives debunked it as a hoax. Another misleading article suggested she was retreating from public engagements for personal reasons. Graf firmly denied these claims, stating, “I’m very much alive and excited about what’s ahead, both on the court and in our efforts to support children’s mental health.” Her words reassured fans and underscored her resilience against the internet’s penchant for sensationalism.

## Pickleball Passion with Andre Agassi

Graf’s statement highlighted her and Agassi’s participation in the Joola 2025 Pickleball Legends Tour, set for March 26-29 in Vietnam and China, and their defense of their Pickleball Slam titles at Pickleball Slam 3 on February 16, 2025, in Las Vegas. “Pickleball has brought a fresh challenge and joy to our lives,” Graf said, emphasizing the sport’s accessibility and fun. The couple, who prefer playing as partners rather than opponents, have embraced pickleball’s fast-paced nature, with Graf admitting it requires “unlearning” her tennis instincts for a more patient, finesse-driven approach. Their involvement has drawn attention to pickleball’s rising popularity, alongside stars like Tom Brady and LeBron James.

## Children for Tomorrow: A Lasting Legacy

Beyond pickleball, Graf reaffirmed her commitment to Children for Tomorrow, the foundation she co-founded in 1998 to support the mental health of refugee children. “Our work with Children for Tomorrow remains a priority,” she stated. “Helping vulnerable children find stability and hope is a mission that drives me every day.” The foundation, partnered with the University of Hamburg, continues to expand its reach, addressing the growing needs of displaced youth. Graf’s dedication to this cause reflects her desire to leave a lasting impact beyond her athletic achievements.

## Looking Forward with Purpose

Graf’s statement concluded with optimism: “Andre and I are grateful for the support of our fans and look forward to competing in pickleball while continuing our work with Children for Tomorrow.” Her words resonate with the same determination that defined her tennis career, where she won the Golden Slam in 1988 and held the world No. 1 ranking for a record 377 weeks. As she navigates this new phase, Graf remains a beacon of resilience, philanthropy, and adaptability, inspiring fans on and off the court.