Share with picklers

Shares


Ava Ignatowich

Ava Ignatowich - Pro Pickleball Player

Gender

Female

Age

24

Location

Delray Beach, Florida

Plays

Right-handed

Latest from Ava

Ava’s Profile

Ava Ignatowich grew up in Darien, Connecticut, where she was a standout tennis player, achieving a national ranking of No. 130 in 2019. ) In 2022, she discovered pickleball through her older brother, James Ignatowich, a professional player himself.

) Despite her initial unfamiliarity with the sport, Ava quickly adapted, leveraging her tennis background to excel in pickleball. She began competing professionally in 2024, balancing her athletic pursuits with her studies at the University of Miami, where she is majoring in Economics. ) Since turning professional, Ava has participated in numerous tournaments, showcasing her adaptability and determination.

In 2023, she secured a notable victory at the Cincinnati Open, defeating Jeanette Miller and Ekaterina Biakina before facing top-tier opponents in the semifinals and bronze medal match. ) Her performance in these events highlighted her potential and commitment to the sport. In 2025, she was selected by the Miami Pickleball Club in the Major League Pickleball Free Agency Draft, underscoring her growing prominence in the professional scene.

) Ava’s playing style is characterized by a blend of aggression and precision, a testament to her tennis roots. She employs the Vanguard Power Air Invikta paddle, known for its power and precision, complementing her aggressive style of play. ) This equipment choice reflects her strategic approach to the game.

Off the court, Ava is dedicated to her academics and enjoys playing the piano, volunteering at animal shelters, and surfing, demonstrating a well-rounded personality beyond her athletic endeavors.

Popular Video

“

“I really have to change gears when I play both. With the pros, I have to play at a much faster pace, so it can be difficult alternating between the two different levels.” (on balancing college and professional pickleball)

— Ava Ignatowich

Top Strategy Tips

1

Focus on aggressive yet controlled play to maintain pressure on opponents.

2

Leverage tennis background to enhance footwork and court coverage.

3

Adapt quickly to different playing styles when transitioning between college and professional levels.

🏆 Career Highlights

Gold medal at 2023 Cincinnati Open

Selected by Miami Pickleball Club in 2025 MLP Free Agency Draft

Defeated Jeanette Miller and Ekaterina Biakina at 2023 Cincinnati Open