A Legend's Final Rally: Celebrating Steve Deakin’s Pro Career

The pickleball world experienced an emotional milestone as PPA Tour icon Steve Deakin stepped onto the court for his final professional mixed doubles match. After years of shaping the sport with his consistency, sportsmanship, and world-class skill, Steve shared a touching moment with partner Elsie Hendershot, marking the end of an era on the main pro tour.
(Don’t worry—he’ll continue competing in the Senior Open division, so this isn’t a true farewell.)

A highlight clip of this heartfelt final match, along with the official announcement, can be found in the PPA Tour’s Instagram post.

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From Tennis Prodigy to Pickleball Pioneer

Steve’s journey into pickleball is a story of unexpected beginnings and relentless passion. Once a rising Canadian junior tennis star, his trajectory changed when a shoulder injury forced him to step away from competing. That’s when his father introduced him to a sport he had never even heard of—pickleball.

With a borrowed wooden paddle in hand and zero expectations, Steve played his first game.

He was instantly hooked.

“It was the best decision I made and have enjoyed years of fun and meeting new friends because of it,” Steve recalls.

This spark turned into a remarkable second career—one that would reshape pickleball history.

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A Leap of Faith and a Legacy of Excellence

In 2019, Steve made a bold move: he left his full-time job to pursue pickleball professionally. That leap paid off, propelling him into one of the sport’s most celebrated careers.

His accomplishments speak for themselves:

• 57-0 undefeated match record in his first Senior Pro season (2024).

• 18 titles and 2 World Championships in 2024 alone.

• 5-time Canadian National Champion and multi-major medalist.

Beyond the medals, Steve has earned admiration around the world for his humility, leadership, and ability to elevate every match he plays.

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A Trusted Partner on Court: ONIX Gear

Throughout his pro career, Steve has turned to ONIX for the equipment that fuels his performance. His current weapon of choice is the ONIX Evoke Premier Raw Carbon, and he’s eager to transition to the ONIX Malice Raw Carbon Open Throat paddle.

“I require a good combination of power, grit, and feel and have found that with the ONIX brand,” Steve explains. “The quality of ONIX equipment I play with is second to none.”

As he embarks on the next chapter in the Senior Open division, ONIX continues to stand by him—supporting a legend whose impact reaches far beyond championship titles.

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A Final Rally, but Not the End

Steve Deakin’s final match on the main pro tour underscores everything that makes him extraordinary: heart, resilience, and a deep love for the sport. While this chapter closes, his legacy will continue to inspire players across the world.

And as he steps into his next stage of competition, one thing is certain—pickleball is better because Steve Deakin chose to pick up that first wooden paddle.