The life of a professional pickleball player is a whirlwind.

Constantly traveling across the country solo, having the support of loved ones at tournaments can mean the world. While families can’t make it to every event, having a parent in the stands is always a special highlight.

Christian Alshon’s mom, Nina, shared a glimpse into the Alshon household and her perspective on Christian’s shift from tennis to professional pickleball.

“He’s doing what he loves,” she said. “I love to see him be happy and enjoying the whole journey.”

Nina recalled the first time Christian told his parents he planned to leave college tennis and pursue pickleball at the highest level.

“He told me that he was going to quit the men’s tennis team at school and start playing pro pickleball. I tried to convince him to wait and play pickleball after he graduated, but he knew he needed to start playing immediately and jump right in,” she explained. “But I believed that he would be successful in whatever he does, and since that’s what he decided to do, I backed him up. He just couldn’t drop out of school.” 

Having spent countless hours at tennis tournaments for her children, Nina was thrilled to watch Christian chase a new dream on the court.

“The first time I saw him play pickleball, it was a small fundraiser tournament locally in Boca and Anna Leigh and Leigh Waters were there playing, too. Leigh and Anna Leigh said Christian was really good and he needed to play pickleball. They were really the ones who convinced me that he should do it,” said Nina. “A couple of weeks later, the Waters called him and asked him to come out and hit because Anna Leigh needed someone to hit with. That was really his introduction into pickleball.”

As the story goes, Leigh and Anna Leigh played a key role not only in helping Christian see his future in pickleball, but also in winning over his parents.

The Alshons never could have predicted just how much the sport would grow, and they couldn’t be prouder of their son.

“Playing pro pickleball was a good move for him. He’s a very hard worker, and he truly loves what he’s doing,” she praised. “I just love to see all my kids happy and successful. Success means different things for different kids, and as long as they enjoy what they’re doing and they’re excelling at it, that makes me happy.” 

Nina also shared that the Alshons love playing pickleball together whenever they get the chance.

On those family days, Christian can’t resist showing off with the occasional trick shot.

“He doesn’t hit the ball super hard when he’s playing with us, but he does these crazy things that nobody else would ever be able to get,” she revealed. “It’s amazing, but also a little annoying when you’re trying to play against him.”

When it comes to tournaments, Nina loves seeing him compete against the best.

“I love watching my kids compete, but I’m not concerned with the outcome of the event. As long as he’s trying his hardest, that’s growing him into a better player,” she praised. “In order to get to the next level, you have to push yourself, so you need to be challenged out there.”

At the end of it all, Nina always reminds Christian to enjoy himself on the court.

“One of my mottos is always, 'If we’re not having fun, then why are we doing it?' she concluded. “I tell him to just enjoy the ride and see where it takes you.” 

Judging by everything, Alshon is clearly enjoying the adventure.

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