Lucy Kovalova
Hailing from the picturesque country of Slovakia, Lucy Kovalova began her athletic journey as a standout member of the Junior National tennis team. Her early success in tennis paved the way for her move to the United States, where she pursued collegiate tennis at Wichita State University in Kansas. During her time as a Shocker, Lucy distinguished herself as the number one doubles player for four consecutive years, showcasing her talent, dedication, and competitive spirit. Her years on the tennis court laid a strong foundation of discipline, agility, and strategy that would later translate seamlessly into her pickleball career.
About three years ago, Lucy made a significant and exciting transition from tennis to pickleball. The shift was not just a change of sport, but the beginning of a new chapter marked by rapid success and growing influence. By November 2018, Lucy’s impact on pickleball was already being felt on the national stage. At the USA Pickleball National Championships held in Indian Wells, California, she made history by clinching the Women’s Triple Crown—winning gold medals in Women’s Singles, Women’s Doubles, and Mixed Doubles. This rare achievement highlighted her versatility, competitive drive, and mastery of the sport in a remarkably short period.
Lucy’s influence extends beyond the court. She played a crucial role in the development of the Evoke Premier pickleball paddle, contributing valuable feedback that helped shape one of the sport’s most popular and innovative paddles. The Evoke Premier, known for its balance of control and power, quickly became a favorite among players at all levels. More recently, Lucy has taken her partnership with Evoke to the next level by using the Raw Carbon Evoke Premier paddle—ONIX’s latest innovation—famed for its exceptional performance, durability, and sleek design. This paddle perfectly complements her aggressive and strategic playing style, allowing her to execute precise shots and maintain control in high-pressure situations.
As of the end of 2021, Lucy Kovalova’s standing on the professional pickleball scene speaks volumes about her elite status. She earned the prestigious ranking of number one in Mixed Doubles and number two in Women’s Doubles on the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) Tour, confirming her place among the sport’s top competitors. Her ability to excel in both singles and doubles formats, as well as mixed play, highlights her comprehensive skill set and adaptability on the court.
Among her many accomplishments, Lucy recently triumphed in the Women’s Doubles Pro division at the Indoor National Championships, adding another significant title to her already impressive collection. This victory reflects her ongoing commitment to excellence and her relentless pursuit of success in every tournament she enters.
Beyond her individual achievements, Lucy often collaborates with her esteemed pickleball partner, Matt Wright, with whom she shares strong chemistry and complementary skills. Together, they represent a formidable team on the professional circuit, earning recognition and admiration from fans and competitors alike.
For those interested in exploring Lucy’s favorite pickleball gear, including her choice paddles and accessories, you can visit her ambassador page for carefully curated recommendations at this link. To learn more about her accomplished partner, Matt Wright, and their dynamic partnership, you can find additional information here.
Lucy Kovalova’s journey from a junior tennis star in Slovakia to a top-ranked professional pickleball player in the United States is a testament to her passion, hard work, and versatility. Her story continues to inspire athletes around the world to embrace new challenges and pursue their dreams with dedication and confidence.
