Tom Protzek

Tom Protzek is a professional pickleball player from Germany who made a rapid rise on the PPA Tour after debuting in November 2024. A former Division I soccer player at the University of Tulsa, Protzek swapped cleats for paddles and immediately turned heads. In just his second pro tournament, he pushed world No. 1 Federico Staksrud to three sets and reached the round of 16 in singles. He's also picked up wins over established pros like Michael Loyd.

Now based in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Protzek has competed in 25+ pro tournaments and climbed to #35 in singles, #53 in doubles, and #57 in mixed. He's faced top names like Ben Johns and Jack Sock, holding his own with athleticism and grit that reflect his soccer background. With Martin Emmrich as a doubles partner in some events, Protzek represents the growing wave of European athletes making an impact on the American pro tour.