Get To Know Christine McGrath

Christine McGrath is well known as one of the best pickleball players in the world. With countless tournament wins, including US Open and Tournament of Champions gold medals, Christine quickly cemented herself as a top athlete in the game. Formerly a lifelong and Division I collegiate tennis player, she transitioned into pickleball in 2015, swiftly landed atop podiums across the country, and never looked back. Now, aside from being a top professional, Christine is a pickleball entrepreneur, who co-designed a signature power and spin-friendly paddle with Franklin Pickleball. 

Shop Christine’s Signature Paddle

Follow Christine on @christinemcgrathpickleball

Checkout Christine’s answers to questions we just needed the answers to! 

Q. When did you start playing pickleball and why? 

A. I started playing about 6 years ago (2015) when a family friend convinced me to try it. 

Q. What’s the story behind how you got involved with pickleball? 

A. I got hooked on day 1 of trying the sport. I signed up for the Tournament of Champions 2 weeks later! 

Q. How did you come to choose your paddle sponsor? 

A. I was able to co-design a paddle and bags with Franklin Pickleball. The paddle has maximum grit and excellent control and power. 

Q. Favorite sports quote of all time?

A. Go big or go home

Q. What does a pickleball practice look like for you? 

A. Practice looks like some drills for each shot, maybe some extra drills to work on specifics, and some game playing potentially

Q. Can you give your number one top tip for someone just getting started in pickleball?

A. Have fun!

Q. If you could play another sport, what would it be?

A. My background prior to pickleball is tennis so I play that also. I would also like to be a better golfer.  

Q. What is your favorite activity outside of pickleball?

A. Spending time with family and friends 

Q. What do you consider your greatest accomplishment? Both as an athlete and in life?

A. As an athlete, it would be a few of the titles I have such as US Open and Tournament of Champions. 

A. In life, maybe my grad school degrees and real estate investing.