Last Updated on November 30, 2025 by Drew Pierce
The JOOLA Agassi Pro ($279) features a unique “tennis-style” flared shape and a propulsion core that delivers elite power and spin. While expensive, it is USAP-approved and ideal for tennis converts looking for a high-performance paddle that feels faster than the standard elongated shape.
When I first heard about the JOOLA × Andre Agassi Pro pickleball paddle, I was skeptical. A “signature” paddle always walks the line between marketing and performance — but to me, this one delivered beyond the hype. The shape is striking: a narrow waist that flares out at the top, reminiscent of a tennis racket more than the typical wide-body pickleball paddle. That unique profile instantly caught my attention.
Once I held it and hit a few balls, though — that’s when I realized this isn’t just about looks. It feels light and fast in hand, yet substantial enough to generate real power and spin. The textured carbon-fiber face grips the ball nicely, letting me shape shots aggressively while still maintaining control.
Performance Breakdown: What You Need to Know
Power & Pop
This paddle packs serious punch — enough to make third-shot drives and aggressive volleys feel almost effortless. When I drive hard from the backcourt or try to end a point at the kitchen, the pop and pace are noticeable. In my experience, the Agassi Pro is one of the most powerful paddles I’ve used — just a hair below the top-tier power paddles out there, but maybe a little easier to keep under control.
Control & Spin
Despite the power, I’m pleasantly surprised by how well I can still place shots. Because the paddle doesn’t feel overly heavy or head-heavy, quick hand action at the net is smooth — I can redirect volleys or hit controlled resets without strain. The carbon-fiber surface gives me enough grip to load up topspin drives, or execute slices and drops with decent accuracy.
That said: the sweet spot isn’t enormous. I find it reliably near the throat and center, but if I reach for wide or high balls — especially near the top corners — the paddle feels less forgiving. Off-center hits there sometimes lack pop or carry.
Feel, Speed & Handling
At around 8 oz (depending on core thickness—see below) the paddle feels light and maneuverable. I love the balance — it’s not head-heavy, so swinging and quick exchanges don’t tire my arm even after long sessions. The handle length (about 5.5″) gives me room if I need two-handed backhands, which is a nice nod to the tennis-to-pickleball crossover many players experience.
Technical Specifications
Core thickness: Comes in two versions — 14 mm or 16 mm
Paddle face: Textured carbon fiber — gives good spin and control
Weight: Approximately 7.8–8.1 oz (depending on core selection)
Handle length: ~5.5″, with comfortable grip circumference — solid for both one- and two-handed strokes
Certifications: USA Pickleball (USAP) approved and UPA-A certified
Who This Paddle Is (and Isn’t) For
You’ll Love It If You:
- Want a powerful paddle that can finish points aggressively
- Play with a more attacking, drive-heavy style (third-shot drives, volleys, pop-ups at the kitchen)
- Appreciate spin and want to use it for serves, drives, or topspin shots that dip low
- Enjoy a lighter, quicker paddle that still delivers solid pop and responsiveness
You Might Struggle With It If You:
- Prefer a super soft, forgiving paddle — beginners or players transitioning from soft paddles may find this one unforgiving
- Rely on wide or high defensive shots a lot (the sweet spot near the edges/top isn’t super forgiving)
- Want an inexpensive paddle — this is a premium model and carries a premium price tag
JOOLA Agassi Pro
JOOLA Perseus 3
JOOLA Magnus 3
How to Avoid Fake Paddles: Buying Authentic
Since premium paddles like the Agassi Pro have become popular, copies and knock-offs have unfortunately appeared in the marketplace. Here’s how to verify you’re getting a real JOOLA paddle:
Scan the NFC chip: JOOLA embeds an NFC chip in their Pro paddles that you can register on their site. If the paddle doesn’t scan or the chip info doesn’t match JOOLA records — that’s a red flag.
Check logo details: Many fake paddles get small details wrong — logo font may be slightly off, placement may be a little askew, or the handle stamping may be different. Pay close attention to engraving quality and font consistency.
Verify weight and feel: Real Agassi Pros weigh around 7.8–8.1 oz depending on core thickness. If a paddle is significantly lighter or heavier — or the face feels cheap (plasticky, no carbon-fiber texture) — it’s suspect.
Examine surface quality: The textured carbon-fiber face should look and feel like actual carbon fiber, not painted or cheaply laminated. If the finish scrapes off easily, that’s a warning sign.
Look for certification labels: Authentic Pro-level paddles should display USA Pickleball (USAP) or UPA-A certification on the box or paddle itself.
Buy from reputable sellers: Purchase from authorized dealers, JOOLA’s official store, or verified retailers. If buying used/resale — ask for detailed photos of logos, close-ups of the handle, weight verification, NFC scan results, and proof of purchase.
Quick Reference: Pros, Cons & Buying Advice
PROS:
- Excellent power and pop for aggressive play
- Good spin potential with textured carbon fiber surface
- Light and maneuverable (around 8 oz)
- Longer handle accommodates two-handed shots
- Unique, eye-catching design
- USA Pickleball approved
CONS:
- Smaller sweet spot — less forgiving on off-center hits
- Not ideal for beginners or soft-paddle enthusiasts
- Premium pricing
- May require adjustment period for players used to wider-body paddles
BUYING ADVICE: Best for intermediate to advanced players with solid shot placement who favor an aggressive, power-driven style. Purchase only from authorized dealers or JOOLA’s official website to avoid counterfeit products. Consider trying the 14mm version for more power or the 16mm for slightly more control. Budget $150-200+ depending on retailer and current promotions.
My Final Verdict
I’m genuinely impressed by the JOOLA Agassi Pro. For someone like me — who enjoys power-driven rallies, aggressive third-shot drives, and spin-heavy play — it strikes a great balance of pop, speed, and control. The design is bold, the feel is fast, and the carbon-fiber face gives enough bite to shape shots.
That said, it’s not a “do-everything” paddle: you need good hand-eye coordination and consistency to make the sweet spot count. For casual players — or those favoring soft, forgiving paddles — this might not be the best first paddle.
If you’re looking for a high-performance paddle that rewards precision and aggression, and you’re confident in your shot placement — the Agassi Pro is absolutely worth trying. Just make sure you’re buying authentic, and you’ll have a paddle that can genuinely elevate your game.