Key Takeaways

• Former Women's Tennis Association professional turned successful entrepreneur

• Founder and owner of PBPRO Pickleball, established in October 2020

• Selected as an ambassador for Alibaba.com's "Same Player, New Game" campaign for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games

• Joins NBA legend Tony Parker and mountain biker Elias Schwärzler in the campaign

• Showcases the transition from professional athlete to business leader

• Highlights the growing popularity of pickleball as a sport

• Demonstrates how skills from competitive sports translate to business success

• Inspires other athletes to pursue entrepreneurial ventures post-sports career

In a striking display of athletic prowess and entrepreneurial spirit, Simona Galik Moore, founder and owner of PBPRO Pickleball, is set to grace billboards at the Paris Olympics. This showcase not only highlights her remarkable journey from professional tennis player to successful businesswoman but also underscores the growing global appeal of pickleball.

A Champion's Transition

Simona Galik Moore's story is one of passion, perseverance, and adaptability. As a former professional tennis player, she competed at the highest levels, facing off against some of the sport's most formidable opponents. Her experience on the professional circuit, including appearances in Grand Slam tournaments, laid the foundation for her future success in the business world.

In October 2020, Moore channeled her competitive drive and sports expertise into founding PBPRO Pickleball, a company dedicated to producing high-quality pickleball equipment and apparel. This transition from athlete to entrepreneur exemplifies the core message of Alibaba's #sameplayernewgame campaign, which celebrates athletes who have successfully pivoted to the business world.

PBPRO: A Women-Owned Success Story

As a women-owned business, PBPRO Pickleball stands out in the sports equipment industry. Moore's leadership has been instrumental in developing products that cater to a diverse range of players, with a particular focus on women in the sport.

Innovative Products for Women Players

PBPRO's commitment to inclusivity is evident in their product line:

• The Infinity Falcon Lite XL 16.0 mm: Specifically designed for women, this paddle combines power and control.
• Tour Finesse 7.9 oz: A carbon fiber paddle tailored for female players seeking spin control.
• Tour Widebody Lite 7.8 oz: Crafted for women new to the game, offering a balance of power and maneuverability.

These products reflect Moore's understanding of the unique needs of women in pickleball, drawing from her own experiences as a professional athlete.

From Tennis Court to Pickleball Empire

Moore's journey from the tennis court to the helm of a pickleball empire is a testament to her adaptability and business acumen. PBPRO has quickly established itself as a leader in the pickleball industry, offering a range of products from beginner-friendly paddles to professional-grade equipment.

The company's success is built on Moore's ability to transfer skills honed on the tennis court – such as strategic thinking, discipline, and performance under pressure – to the business world. This transition has not been without challenges, including learning the intricacies of business management and building a brand from scratch in a competitive market.

Olympic Recognition: A Game-Changing Moment

The inclusion of Simona Galik Moore on billboards at the Paris Olympics represents a significant milestone, not just for her and PBPRO, but for the sport of pickleball as a whole. This high-profile exposure at one of the world's most prestigious sporting events underscores the growing popularity and recognition of pickleball on the global stage.

Moore's presence at the Olympics serves as an inspiration to athletes considering a transition to entrepreneurship and highlights the potential for success in the burgeoning pickleball industry. It also reinforces the message that the skills and mindset developed in competitive sports can be powerful assets in the business world.

As pickleball continues to gain momentum worldwide, Simona Galik Moore and PBPRO are well-positioned to lead the charge. Their commitment to innovation, quality, and inclusivity in the sport sets a high standard for the industry and paves the way for future growth and development.

From the tennis courts to the billboards of Paris, Simona Galik Moore's journey embodies the spirit of reinvention and the endless possibilities that arise when passion meets opportunity. As the world watches the Olympic Games, her story will undoubtedly inspire a new generation of athletes and entrepreneurs to pursue their dreams, both on and off the court.