Elevate Your Pickleball Game: Insights from Pro Champion Andrei Daescu

Insights from Pro Champion Andrei Daescu

In the fast-paced world of professional pickleball, few players exemplify the perfect blend of athleticism, strategy, and competitive fire like Andrei Daescu. As one of the sport’s top doubles players and a Major League Pickleball champion, Andrei’s journey from professional tennis to pickleball stardom offers valuable insights for anyone looking to raise their game.

From Tennis Courts to Pickleball Prominence

Andrei’s athletic roots run deep. Growing up in Romania, his father was a professional basketball player, but Andrei found his passion in tennis at age six. “I got addicted to it right away,” he recalls. That passion led to a decorated career: collegiate play at the University of Oklahoma, a professional run that peaked at world No. 120, Davis Cup appearances for Romania, and even a main draw match at the 2015 U.S. Open.

After a shoulder injury sidelined him from tennis, Andrei discovered pickleball in 2017 at BallenIsles Country Club in Florida. What started as a “nice little hobby” quickly became a second professional career. By 2023, he had become one of the sport’s most respected doubles specialists, highlighted by an MLP championship with the Squeeze.

Training Like a Champion

At 37, Andrei maintains peak physical condition through a training regimen that reflects his professional approach. “As you get older, you learn about recovery and how important it is, not just for injury prevention, but it also just feels so much better when you take care of your body,” he explains.

His recovery toolkit includes stretching two to three times daily, ice baths, sports massages, compression therapy, and carefully managed conditioning. On the court, his practice adjusts based on the season: technique with coaches in training blocks, tactical sessions with other pros, and video scouting as tournaments approach. But he insists nothing replaces match play: “If you think you’re going to train yourself into a tournament, that’s wrong. You actually play tournaments to see what you need to fix in training.”

The Secret to Doubles Success

Andrei has found particular success in men’s doubles, especially with partner Christian Alshon. “Our energy gels really well,” he says. “Our chemistry on court from a tactical standpoint is getting really good. Our playing styles match very well.”

He believes versatility is the key: “We can play a lot of different ways, and that’s crucial. You can’t be one-dimensional, or players will figure you out quickly.” This adaptability allows them to respond to different opponents and conditions—a vital skill in high-level pickleball.

A Professional Mindset

While many admire pickleball for its fun and social side, Andrei approaches it with the mindset of a seasoned professional. “When we played in Vegas, I was in bed by 9:30, 10 p.m.,” he notes. “Winning or losing, I just try to give 110% every time I step on the court.”

This discipline reflects his belief that the sport has matured rapidly. “There’s no chance you can be at the top without working hard anymore,” he says. “These guys are putting in insane hours. You can’t take it easy and expect results.”

Challenges and the Future of the Sport

Andrei also points out the need for greater equipment standardization. “The equipment has changed the game a lot in the last few years. They definitely have to get that under control,” he warns. Like many veterans, he sees consistent rules and paddle standards as critical for the sport’s long-term credibility.

Balancing Family and Competition

Behind Andrei’s success is a strong support system - especially his wife, who manages family life while he travels to tournaments more than 30 weeks each year. “She’s definitely a hero,” Andrei says. “She somehow gets it done.”

Whenever possible, his wife and daughters join him at events, turning tournaments into shared family experiences. That balance keeps him grounded amid the demands of pro competition.

Lessons From a Champion

Andrei’s story is full of takeaways for players at every level:

1. Prioritize recovery—stretch, rest, and use recovery tools.

2. Compete often—tournaments teach what training alone cannot.

3. Be versatile—develop multiple strategies to adapt in doubles.

4. Stay disciplined—bring professionalism to your preparation.

5. Balance matters—lean on family and support systems.

As pickleball continues to grow in intensity and visibility, Andrei Daescu serves as an example of what it takes to thrive. His commitment to discipline, preparation, and adaptability proves that success in pickleball—like in life—requires giving your 110% every time you step on the court.