JOOLA Welcomes MLB Slugger into the Fold
J.D. Martinez to pursue Pro Pickleball

Rockville, MD (2/3/25) – Major League Baseball All-Star and World Series Champion J.D. Martinez brings one of the purest swings in the game of baseball to the sport of pickleball, signing an exclusive deal with JOOLA to prepare to transition to professional pickleball after his baseball career.

“I see pickleball as a sport I’ll be involved in for the long run and JOOLA’s commitment to the sport and my personal growth in the game makes this partnership even more special,” said Martinez.

Martinez has officially joined the JOOLA family and has already begun training under the expert guidance of JOOLA pro Eric White. As part of this partnership, JOOLA will provide J.D. with comprehensive support, including coaching and equipment. In addition to training, J.D. will receive backing from JOOLA to compete in professional events like the PPA Challenger Series and to host his own pickleball tournaments.

“In our short time working together I can already see he loves the game of pickleball and is willing to learn better pickleball habits,” White continued “because of that enthusiasm and willingness to change he truly has no ceiling.”

A self-confessed former table tennis addict, J.D. was first introduced to pickleball when a neighbor invited him over to play. His competitive spirit quickly took over, and he was instantly hooked. Not long after, Martinez built a pickleball court at his home to fully immerse himself in the sport.

“What I love is how people of all ages can play and compete on an equal level—it's all about skill," said Martinez. “Every time I step onto the court to play, I feel like I uncover another layer of the game, and it keeps drawing me in. The competition aspect is what keeps me hooked!”

J.D. Martinez is a six-time All-Star and World Series champion who has played in the majors for 14 seasons. In October of 2024 J.D. was announced as the newest member of “The Fort”, a world-class pickleball facility in Fort Lauderdale, home to the world’s first dedicated pickleball stadium.

About JOOLA
Founded in 1952, JOOLA is a globally recognized brand specializing in table tennis and pickleball equipment. With a commitment to innovation and quality, JOOLA continues to lead the way in racket sports, providing athletes and enthusiasts with the tools they need to excel at every level. www.joola.com