BREAKING: A remarkable achievement has just occurred in the world of sports as 13-year-old Kelly Goodnow from the Valley is crowned the world champion in pickleball!
In an electrifying final at the Carvana PPA World Championships held in Dallas, Goodnow clinched the singles title in her division, showcasing her exceptional talent and determination just one year after starting the sport. “It was such a great experience,” Goodnow shared. “All the hard work is paying off, so it feels great.”
Goodnow faced intense competition, battling her way back from a deficit of 2-8 in the deciding game. “I was really stressed,” she admitted. “But I had to tell myself to keep fighting, keep digging, and I did. I came out with a win.”
Her journey to this championship is nothing short of inspiring. After her mother, Erin Goodnow, introduced her to pickleball, she quickly fell in love with the sport, training up to six days a week. “It’s the adrenaline that makes it so fun,” Goodnow stated, highlighting her passion for the game.
Parents James and Erin Goodnow expressed immense pride in their daughter’s accomplishments. “It was an awesome moment,” James said, emotional after witnessing her victory. “Kelly is an absolute beast on the court… there’s no stopping her.”
As she celebrates her victory, Goodnow is gearing up for her first professional qualifier event, marking a significant step in her burgeoning career. Coach Ashlee Candelari is excited for the future, stating, “We’re extremely excited to break into the pro scene together.”
Goodnow’s rapid rise in the sport has not gone unnoticed. Already a sponsored athlete with brands like Proton Sports and SParms, she is quickly becoming a breakout star in pickleball, with national medals already under her belt.
“It’s surreal to me that I’m doing this,” Goodnow expressed. “I’m so new to the sport, but I’m having the best time and I’m just glad to be along for the ride.”
As pickleball continues to grow in popularity, with nearly 20 million players in the U.S. alone as of 2024, Goodnow stands out as one of the youngest and most promising talents in the sport today. Her success is not just a personal victory, but a beacon of inspiration for young athletes everywhere.
Congratulations to Kelly Goodnow on her incredible achievement, and best of luck as she prepares for the next chapter in her exciting pickleball journey!
