Patrick Kawka

Patrick Kawka is a Polish-born pro pickleball player who made one of the sport's more unusual transitions: from college racquetball at BYU (where he posted an 85-27 singles record) to the ATP tennis tour, and then into competitive pickleball. Born September 12, 1992, and originally from Las Vegas, Kawka now competes on the MLP circuit with the Bay Area Breakers. The fact that he went pro in pickleball just eight months after picking up a paddle tells you everything about his racquet sport instincts.

Kawka has racked up 44 professional pickleball events and counting. On the MLP stage, he's been part of some entertaining matchups with the Breakers, facing squads like the Las Vegas Night Owls and California Black Bears. His tennis background gives him a natural advantage in hand speed and court coverage, and his rapid climb through the pro ranks has made him one of the more intriguing international players on tour.