You may have noticed Atlanta, Georgia’s Kaanu Patel on YouTube, Instagram, television, or wherever TYPTI has shown up in recent months and weeks. The pickleball coach, and music producer has featured as one of the prominent players embracing founder Steve Bellamy’s new racquet sport.
Patel, who has been living in LA for nearly five years, was a nationally ranked junior tennis player and played for nearly 15 years. He was introduced to the sport of TYPTI by Bellamy himself at Calabasas Pickleball Club.
“At first I was pretty hesitant,” admitted Patel. “I wasn’t sure if I truly liked it yet, now that’s all changed.
Patel’s assessment of TYPTI is intriguing in itself.
“I would say that TYPTI is chaos,” said Patel. “There are many different styles of play but the sport itself is an extremely entertaining level of chaos and beauty combined in one. I think that the short court creates more intense rallies and very fun points.”
Patel’s presence on the TYPTI and social stage is on an upward trajectory, with the 25 year old featuring on multiple highlight reels. He was also recently spotted at this year’s Racquetx alongside the NFL’s Terrell Owens, Jarvis Landry, and Tre Boston.
In addition to a burgeoning pro career in TYPTI, Patel’s passions extend to the music industry, where he’s also making his mark under the moniker of Paddleboy.
“Paddleboy is still building his music career,” noted Patel. “I have achieved so much in music at just 25, and my goal is to continue to work with artists and help them create their albums. Eventually I’ll have the ability to build my own album with the artists I connect with. But at the moment my goal is build my catalog and meet more creatives.”
Last but not least, Patel made sure to include a pair of shout outs.
“Honestly, I’d just love to give a shout out to Universal Tennis Academy and David Drew,” concluded Patel. “Since I can remember I’ve been smacking yellow balls and they taught me how to do it the right way.
“I always thought my junior tennis career was a waste and that I’d never use any of those skills again. Boy was I wrong. Without them I wouldn’t be the coach, player or man I am today. And shout out to Steve for creating my new favourite sport.”
Check out Patel’s highlights on TYPTI’s official Instagram page or YouTube channel. He also runs his own Instagram and YouTube page (@1kaanu_).