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Layne Sleeth

Layne Sleeth - Pro Pickleball Player

Gender

Female

Age

24

Location

Wesley Chapel, Florida

Plays

Right-handed

Latest from Layne

Layne’s Profile

Born on August 18, 2001, in Markham, Ontario, Layne Sleeth was immersed in sports from an early age. Her mother, a figure skater and coach, introduced her to skating when she was just 18 months old, fostering a strong foundation in athleticism. Inspired by her brother, Connor, who played college hockey at Oswego State, Layne joined all-boys hockey teams at the age of five, initially playing defense before transitioning to forward and eventually excelling as a goaltender.

Her hockey experience not only honed her agility and reflexes but also instilled a competitive spirit that would later influence her approach to tennis and pickleball. In addition to hockey, Layne was an accomplished tennis player, securing Under-12 and Under-18 Canadian National singles titles. She played Division I tennis at the University of Oklahoma, earning accolades such as Big 12 Newcomer of the Year and All-Big 12 First Team honors.

In her senior year, she became the first Sooner to reach the NCAA Singles Championship final, showcasing her exceptional talent and determination. After graduating with a sociology degree in 2023, Layne turned professional in tennis, achieving a career-high WTA singles ranking of No. 574 in July 2019 and a doubles ranking of No.

332 in June 2024. Despite her success, she transitioned to professional pickleball in 2024, bringing her competitive edge and athletic prowess to the sport. In her early pickleball career, Layne joined the Brooklyn Aces in Major League Pickleball (MLP), where she formed a partnership with Lina Padegimaite.

The duo reached the quarterfinals at the World Pickleball Championships in November 2024, marking a significant milestone in her pickleball journey. In February 2025, she was traded to the California Black Bears, reuniting with Padegimaite and continuing to build on their successful partnership. Layne’s playing style is characterized by her agility, quick reflexes, and strategic play, attributes honed through her diverse athletic background.

Her hockey experience contributes to her exceptional movement and flexibility on the court, allowing her to execute shots with precision and maintain a high level of endurance throughout matches. As she continues to compete at the professional level, Layne remains focused on refining her skills and achieving further success in pickleball, with aspirations to secure titles and elevate her standing in the sport.

Popular Video

“I feel like I just ran after every ball and just grinded it out.” (Reflecting on her performance at the Veolia LA Open)

— Layne Sleeth

Top Strategy Tips

1

Focus on maintaining a low center of gravity to enhance agility and responsiveness during rallies

2

Develop a strong serve to set the tone for points and gain an advantage over opponents

3

Utilize the ‘Agile Smash’ to capitalize on high balls and put pressure on the opposing team

🏆 Career Highlights

Reached the NCAA Singles Championship final in 2023

Achieved a career-high WTA singles ranking of No. 574 in July 2019

Secured a doubles title at the W40 Guadalajara tournament in November 2023