If you play pickleball you must have heard about Jennifer Dawson pickleball player, a name that is known for excellence and accomplishments in the sport. She is the first and only player to win the US Open Pickleball Championships’ Triple Crown, which means she won gold medals in singles, doubles, and mixed doubles in the same competition. She achieved this feat in 2017 and repeated it in 2018, cementing herself as one of the top pickleball players of all time.
But who is Jennifer Dawson, and how did she come to be regarded as a pickleball legend? In this article, I’ll discuss her history, career, and legacy in tennis and pickleball, as well as what makes her such a special athlete.
From Tennis to Pickleball: Jennifer Dawson’s Transition
Jennifer Dawson was born and reared in San Diego, California, where she acquired an early interest in athletics. She excelled at tennis and other sports like soccer, basketball, and track & field. Her family helped encourage and support her dreams, constantly inspiring her to strive for perfection.
Dawson attended Poway High School, where she won the San Diego Section singles championship in 1983. This feat helped her get a full tennis scholarship to the University of San Diego, where she played on the Toreros tennis team for four years. In 1987, she earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration.
Following graduation from college, Dawson decided to become a tennis instructor and worked with players of every skill level and age. She also continued to play and win at an elite level, winning national and international singles and doubles titles. Among her significant accomplishments are:
- Winning the ITF World Championship in Women’s 35 Doubles in 2001 and 2002
- Winning the USTA National Women’s 35 Hard Court Championship in Singles and Doubles in 2002
- Winning the USTA National Women’s 40 Hard Court Championship in Singles and Doubles in 2007 and 2008
- Winning the USTA National Women’s 45 Hard Court Championship in Singles and Doubles in 2012 and 2013
- Winning the USTA National Women’s 50 Hard Court Championship in Singles and Doubles in 2017 and 2018
Dawson was introduced to pickleball by her husband and two boys, who began playing the sport in 2014. A year later, she joined them and instantly fell in love with the game. Pickleball was more enjoyable, sociable, and gentler on her body than tennis. She also learned that her tennis abilities and expertise offered her a competitive advantage over many other players.
Dawson began competing in pickleball events in 2015 and quickly proved herself as one of the world’s best players. She has won over 20 gold medals in singles and doubles competitions in the US Open, National, and Tournament of Champions. She has also collaborated with some of the top players in the game, including Simone Jardim, Steve Dawson, and Dave Weinbach.
Jennifer Dawson Pickleball: The Triple Crown Winner
Dawson’s most notable accomplishment was achieved in 2017 when she became the first person to win the US Open Pickleball Championships’ Triple Crown. She won gold medals in the Senior Pro Singles, Senior Pro Women’s Doubles, and Senior Pro Mixed Doubles competitions, defeating some of the sport’s most challenging opponents. In 2018, she replicated her achievement, earning the Triple Crown for the second time.
Dawson has also received several other major honors, including:
- Winning the US Open Women’s Pro Singles in 2019 and 2020
- Winning the US Open Women’s 50 Doubles in 2018 and 2019
- Winning the National Women’s Senior Pro Doubles in 2018 and 2019
- Winning the National Women’s 50 Doubles in 2017 and 2019
- Winning the Tournament of Champions Women’s Senior Pro Doubles in 2019 and 2020
- Winning the Tournament of Champions Women’s 50 Doubles in 2018 and 2019
Jennifer Dawson’s Age and Legacy in Pickleball
Jennifer Dawson’s pickleball age is 56 as of 2023. She was born in 1967 and first tried pickleball in 2015. Despite her advanced age, she shows no signs of slowing down and continues to dominate the sport with her exceptional talent and tenacity. She is an inspiration to many players, particularly those who are older or new to the sport, showing that age is only a number in pickleball.
Dawson is widely considered one of the top pickleball players of all time, as well as a role model for young athletes. She is well-known for her strategic playing style, strong track record, and modest demeanor. She is also a sports ambassador, supporting the sport’s growth and popularity across the world.
Dawson is sponsored by ProKennex, a major manufacturer of pickleball paddles and accessories. She utilizes the ProKennex Kinetic Ovation Speed paddle, which has proprietary technology that lowers arm and elbow vibration and shock. She also has her trademark paddle, the ProKennex Jennifer Dawson trademark paddle, which was created specifically for her playing style and preferences.
Dawson intends to keep competing and winning at the top level of pickleball while also coaching and mentoring new players. She also wishes to encourage people of all ages to participate in the sport. She thinks pickleball is a great way to remain active, have fun, and meet new people.
Conclusion – Jennifer Dawson Pickleball is a Legend
Jennifer Dawson pickleball is an icon and the first to win the Triple Crown. She proved that everything is possible with hard work, devotion, and enthusiasm. She additionally proved that pickleball is a sport for people of various ages, genders, and backgrounds. She has left an indelible mark on the sport and the lives of those who appreciate and respect her.
Jennifer Dawson is not just a champion in pickleball, but also a leader, a teacher, and a friend. She serves as a role model for many players and an inspiration to many more. She is a person who adores the sport, and the sport adores her in return.