South Florida has emerged as a premier pickleball destination, fueled by its ideal weather, top-tier facilities, and concentration of elite talent.

After turning pro, Alix Truong relocated from Utah to immerse herself in that environment, training and competing alongside some of the best players on tour.

“I basically made a business decision to move from Utah to Florida to regularly train with these guys. I played a lot with Tyra Black and Jorja Johnson, and they helped elevate my game. I have a lot of fun in that area doing little drill sessions with everybody. Hayden Patriquin, Gabe Tario, Jessie Irvine, they’re all down there, too, and they’re some of the top players in the world,” shared Truong.

“It was a really wise move on my part. I feel like I’ve improved a significant amount just because I was exposed to so many great people and players. Even if you’re not playing with them, I’m seeing Anna Leigh Waters drill for 30 minutes on the court next to me and I get to watch her and see what she’s training. It gives me ideas on how to train myself, so it’s been a great opportunity. I love the training down there.”

The move has already paid off for Truong, who believes the change has elevated her game.

Off the court, she’s just as invested, rarely missing a chance to watch others play and study the sport.

“I obviously love watching Anna Leigh and Anna Bright’s game because, I wouldn’t say it’s easy, but I would say that you can replicate them. For example, I have a large backswing on my forehand side because of tennis. People always say I should cut back on my backswing because it gives me less time on my hands, but if the top players do it, then I can do it, too,” said Truong. “I like watching and putting those things together, seeing how they use what some people would think of as a disadvantage and make it an advantage.” 

For Truong and other players aiming to stay ahead in an evolving game, constant skill development and studying opponents are essential to keeping pace with the competition.

Many also turn to training with the men’s field as another way to sharpen their level.

“The women’s game is evolving. Everyone is starting to take in little bits from the men’s game. The ladies are incorporating flicks, faster serves, and deeper returns, so training with Hayden has been really fun. He’s taught me a lot,” praised Truong. “It's the same with my brother. Jonathan has super fast hands, and he’ll help me with my flick and how to move it into different places.”

While she has a deep appreciation for the women’s game, Truong credits training with Jonathan and top men’s pros as a key factor in elevating her performance.

“Training with the guys has been helpful because the women’s game is developing into the men’s game, so the guys already know what it’s like,” concluded Truong. “When you’re playing mixed, you’re playing against a man, so you’ve got to be able to incorporate both sides of things. Playing with the guys has been so helpful for my game.”

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