Meet Taylor Garcia, a pro pickleball player from New Orleans, LA. In August of 2023, she embarked on her professional pickleball career and has been traveling across the United States, aiming to ascend the rankings and secure a spot in the top 10.

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Here are 8 questions where we get to know Taylor better!

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How has pickleball changed your life?

As a competitive person, pickleball has become an outlet in which I can develop personally and continue competing in a sport at a very high level. I was a high performance tennis player for over a decade, and pickleball is sort of a continuation of that intense mindset but also so exciting because it's a completely new sport.

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What is your favorite memory from your professional career so far?

Competing on center court multiple times against some of the best, established pro players on tour. I love playing for a crowd, so it's super fun when I get that opportunity.

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What motivates you to become a pro pickleball player so far from home?

Being able to represent my hometown of New Orleans and also my current location of the D.C./Virginia area means a lot to me. I have thoroughly enjoyed all the people I've met through pickleball and all their support – it's what keeps me going and inspires me to pursue more.

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What athlete or person inspires you the most?

Nick Kyrgios is my favorite athlete because he doesn't take himself too seriously. At times I find myself stressing out on the court and this year, I've made it my goal to play a little more freely like Nick and really enjoy the moment because that's what it's all about.

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What does your current training regimen look like?

Drill 4-6 days a week, lift 3-4 days a week, rest one day.

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What is your greatest accomplishment in sports?

Becoming a 2x All-American in tennis and leading my team to our first NCAA Elite 8 appearance in 10 years.

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What part of your game are you working on the most right now?

Doubles!

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What do you do outside of pickleball?

My favorite thing to do is travel, but D.C. also has no shortage of things to do. I love going to the monuments and museums or trying out local restaurants. I'm a huge foodie and love to cook, so no matter where I am, eating with friends is one of my favorite activities.

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For now, some of Taylor's best results are semifinals (4th place) at PPA Daytona and 5th in Beer City Open.

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Follow Taylor's Pickleball journey on Instagram!