Pros
Eduardo Irizarry
Eduardo Irizarry, originally from Lajas, Puerto Rico, began his tennis journey at the age of 4 under the guidance of his father, who served as his coach. Growing up in a tennis-centric family, Eduardo quickly developed a passion for the sport that propelled him through the ranks of junior tennis to collegiate tennis from Division 3 to Division 1, where he achieved notable success . During his pursuit of further education, Eduardo also received acclaim for his coaching abilities, earning the prestigious Coach of the Year award while obtaining his master’s degree.
After graduating, Eduardo felt that something was missing from his life—competition. He then entered professional tennis tournaments, where he showcased his talent on the international stage.A few tournaments into his professional career, Eduardo suffered an ankle injury that sidelined him from further competition. During this time, he was introduced to pickleball, and within a few months, he has transitioned his competitive spirit and athletic prowess to the emerging sport of pickleball.
Eduardo has been competing in the pro circuit for two years. With a dedication unmatched, he has swiftly risen in the pickleball world, earning the distinction of a three-time medalist in the APP Tour. His achievements include two silver medals and one bronze in Men’s Pro Singles APP Tour.
Beyond his achievements, Eduardo remains committed to promoting sportsmanship and the joy of competition in both tennis and pickleball. Whether on the court or off, his enthusiasm for sports and his roots in Puerto Rico continue to inspire those around him.
Explore Eduardo Irizarry’s journey and achievements in tennis and pickleball, and join him as he continues to make his mark in the world of sports
Career Highlights
- 2023 APP Tour Dallas Open Bronze Silver Medal Men’s Pro Singles
- 2023 APP Tour New Jersey Open Silver Medal Men’s Pro Singles
- 2023 APP Tour Mesa Open Silver Medal Men’s Pro singles
- 2023 PPA Tour Utah Men’s Pro Singles Bonus Draw Gold
- 2023 PPA Tour North Carolina Men’s Pro Singles points Draw Gold medal
- 2023 PPA Tour Atlanta Open Men’s Pro Singles Points Draw Silver Medal
Alejandra Lopez Borobia
Alejandra Lopez Borobia, originally from Bayamón, Puerto Rico, is a rising star in the world of professional pickleball. She began her athletic journey at the young age of 5, diving into the competitive realms of junior, high school, and college tennis. Alejandra’s dedication and talent were evident as she played at the University of St. Thomas, holding the #1 and #2 positions in singles and doubles during her four-year tenure.
In her senior year, Alejandra was honored as Captain of the Year and earned the 2023 Student Athlete of the Year award. Her exceptional performance was previously recognized with the 2022 SCAC Women’s Tennis Elite 19 Award. After graduating in May 2023, Alejandra transitioned to professional pickleball, committing to the sport full-time in August 2023.
Despite being new to the pro pickleball scene, Alejandra has already made a mark with impressive wins against high-ranked players in singles. With her competitive spirit and relentless pursuit of excellence, she is undoubtedly on her way to the top of the pickleball world.
Career Highlights
- 2022 Chicago APP Open Gold Medal 5.0 Women’s Singles
- 2022 New Jersey APP Open Women’s 4.5 Doubles Bronze Medal
- 2022 Chicago Open Mixed 4.5 Silver Medal
- 2022 LBI Mixed 5.0 Bronze Medal
Roberta (Berta) McCallum Russo
Roberta McCallum Russo Is a certified teaching pro with an experienced background in coaching and is currently the Head Pickleball pro at Oxford Athletic Club in Wexford PA conducting clinics and private lessons. She has also taught camps throughout the country and is currently on staff at Pickleball in Paradise camps.
Berta played on the WTA Women’s Pro tennis circuit, competing in Wimbledon, U.S. Open, French Open, and in Australia, reaching a top ranking of 26 in the world and 11 in the US in singles.
She turned her focus to Pickleball in 2018.
Career Highlights
- 4 time National Gold Medal Winner in Singles, Mixed Doubles, and Women’s Doubles.
- Silver Medalist in National 60+ Mixed Doubles
- U.S. Open Women’s Doubles Gold Medal Winner Partnering with TAK10 Pro Chris Powers
- 2024 APP Senior Masters, Pro Gold Medal Winner, Punta Gorda, Florida
She currently competes on the APP, senior masters, pro tour
Chris Powers
Chris Powers is a four-time Nationals Gold medal champion as well as a three-time silver medalist. She competes around the country at the Super Senior Pro level in the Mixed Doubles and Womens Doubles categories. She has competed in over 80 tournaments including Nationals in Indian Wells, CA, and the U.S. Open in Naples, FL. She has won over 200 medals in the four years she has competed. Chris resides in Aiken, SC with her four horses, three dogs, and two pickleball courts. She conducts lessons and camps at her farm called Two Sisters Farm. She enjoys teaching and her students range from complete beginners to those who play competitively. Chris also runs free pickleball retreats for women diagnosed with any type of cancer through herorganization, Women Beyond Cancer.