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Michelle Esquivel

Michelle Esquivel - Pro Pickleball Player

Gender

Female

Age

39

Location

Estero, Florida

Plays

Right-handed

Latest from Michelle

Michelle’s Profile

Michelle Esquivel’s journey into the world of pickleball began in 2014 when she was introduced to the sport. Prior to this, she was deeply involved in tennis, earning a full scholarship to Concordia University in Irvine, California, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Exercise Sports Science, focusing on teaching and coaching. After completing her undergraduate studies, Michelle became a USPTA-certified instructor at Matchpoint Tennis Academy and later served as a collegiate tennis coach at both Orange Coast College and Cypress College.

Her passion for education led her to pursue a Master’s Degree in Physical Education from Azusa Pacific University, preparing her to teach Kinesiology courses at the collegiate level. In 2018, Michelle made a significant career shift, dedicating herself to teaching and playing pickleball professionally. Since then, she has medaled in several PPA and APP tournaments in both Pro Singles and Pro Doubles divisions and has played in all Major League Pickleball seasons.

) As a professional player, Michelle has achieved notable success, including a career win rate of 45. 1% across 195 matches in 42 professional tournaments. She has secured four medals in women’s singles, with three silver and one bronze, and has been a consistent presence in Major League Pickleball, playing in all seasons since 2022.

) Her distinctive playing style is characterized by a powerful and charismatic approach, making her a fan favorite. ) Off the court, Michelle is deeply committed to teaching and coaching, serving as the Founder and Co-Director of Ultimate Pickleball Academy. She is also an IPTPA-certified instructor and has years of teaching experience with EngagePickleball Camps, LevelUp, Suncoast Pickleball Academy, Naples Pickleball Center, Toss and Spin, and Pickleball Getaways.

Popular Video

“

“I just love competing” (on her competitive mindset)

— Michelle Esquivel

Top Strategy Tips

1

Focus on developing a strong serve to gain an early advantage in points.

2

Master the dink shot to control the pace and placement of the game.

3

Maintain a low center of gravity to enhance agility and responsiveness.

🏆 Career Highlights

Medaled in several PPA and APP tournaments in both Pro Singles and Pro Doubles divisions

Played in all Major League Pickleball seasons since 2022

Served as the first PPA Women’s Pro Singles Finalist in 2020