Rachael James: Rising Star in Professional Pickleball

Explore the professional pickleball journey of Rachael James, an inspiring athlete known for her exceptional skill, strategic gameplay and resilience. Follow her thrilling victories and valuable lessons from intense matches at prestigious events like the PPA Tour, APP Dallas Open and APP Houston Open. Witness her dedication to the sport and continuous growth as a top competitor.

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In an electrifying showdown at the PPA Tour: Mesa AZ Mixed Doubles Pro Qualifier on February 20, 2024, Rachael James, alongside her teammate Erik Forsythe, showcased exceptional skill and determination. The duo faced off against Darrian Young and Cassidy Hoag in a best 2 out of 3 games to 11 format, where each game tested their agility, strategy, and teamwork.

Starting with a stumble in the first game, James and Forsythe lost with a score of 5 to 11, putting them at an immediate disadvantage. However, this setback did not deter them; instead, it fueled their resolve. Demonstrating remarkable adaptability and coordination, they bounced back in the second game, securing a victory with an 11 to 9 scoreline. This win was crucial, leveling the playing field and proving their resilience.

The third and decisive game was where James and Forsythe truly shined. Continuing their momentum from the second game, they once again emerged victorious with an 11 to 9 score, clinching the match. This win not only highlighted their ability to overcome initial setbacks but also showcased their skill in maintaining composure under pressure, executing strategic plays, and leveraging their synergistic partnership.

Rachael James, with her competitive background and passion for pickleball, played a pivotal role in this victory. Her performance in this match reflects her dedication to the sport and her capability to compete at the highest levels. Alongside Forsythe, their teamwork and strategic gameplay turned the tide in their favor, securing their place as winners in this highly competitive qualifier.

This match was a testament to James’s growing prowess in pickleball, underscoring her evolution from a collegiate tennis athlete to a formidable force on the pickleball court. Her journey continues to inspire aspiring athletes, demonstrating that with hard work, adaptability, and a strategic approach, success is within reach.


At the APP Dallas Open Women’s PRO Doubles – MAIN DRAW on October 7, 2023, Rachael James, teaming up with Thaddea Lock, delivered a performance that underscored her exceptional talent and competitive spirit in the realm of professional pickleball. The match unfolded in a best 2 out of 3 games to 11 format, pushing the athletes to demonstrate their skill, strategy, and endurance.

James and Lock faced a challenging start, losing the first game with a close score of 9 to 11 against their formidable opponents, Eris Rivera and Danna Hamilton. This initial setback, however, set the stage for an awe-inspiring comeback. In the second game, they turned the tables with a remarkable victory, scoring 14 to 12, showcasing their resilience and adaptability under pressure.

The third game saw an even more dramatic display of skill and determination from James and Lock. They extended their winning streak with an 18 to 16 victory, clinching the match in their favor. This extraordinary game highlighted not only their technical prowess but also their mental toughness, as they persevered through the extended play, which is unusual in professional matches.

Rachael James, with her impressive post-match ratings of 5.552 in singles and 5.346 in doubles, played a pivotal role in securing this victory. Her performance in this match is a testament to her growth as a pickleball player, showcasing her ability to perform under pressure, adapt to challenging situations, and ultimately triumph in high-stakes competitions.

This victory at the APP Dallas Open adds to James’s growing list of accomplishments in the professional pickleball scene. Alongside Thaddea Lock, she demonstrated a remarkable synergy on the court, contributing to a match that will be remembered for its intensity, skill, and thrilling comeback. James’s journey in professional pickleball continues to inspire, as she consistently proves her ability to compete and win at the highest levels of the sport.


During the APP Houston Open Women’s PRO Doubles – MAIN DRAW on October 28, 2023, Rachael James and her partner, Kate Fahey, entered the competition with high hopes and a strategic mindset. The tournament, known for its intense matchups and showcasing some of the best talents in professional pickleball, promised challenging games ahead.

The match was set in the popular format of the best 2 out of 3 games to 11, testing the duo’s synergy, skill, and resilience. James and Fahey faced off against the formidable team of Susannah Barr and Megan Fudge in what was anticipated to be a closely contested battle.

However, the competition proved to be tough for James and Fahey. In the first game, they managed to score 7 points but were ultimately overtaken by Barr and Fudge, who secured the game with 11 points. The second game saw a similar outcome, with James and Fahey scoring only 3 points against their opponents’ 11, leading to a 2-0 defeat in the match.

Despite the loss, this match served as a valuable experience for Rachael James. Competing at such a high level of professional pickleball against seasoned athletes provided her with insights into areas for improvement, strategies to refine, and the relentless spirit required to succeed in professional sports.

For James, each match, whether a win or loss, is a step forward in her professional journey. Known for her dedication, resilience, and ability to learn from every game, James’s participation in the APP Houston Open is a testament to her commitment to excellence in pickleball. This event, while challenging, is part of her continuous journey towards becoming a top competitor in the sport.