Gabe Tardio

Profile

Gabe Tardio is a professional pickleball player born in Bolivia. Now 20, he is a top player ranked 2nd in the world in men's doubles and 6th in mixed doubles. At age 14 his grandfather taught him pickleball in Bolivia, and out of that bond with his grandfather he built two courts in his home country. He turned pro in 2022 at age 17.

Career and record

He has won more than 40 gold medals in his PPA Tour career. In 2025 he paired with world No. 1 Ben Johns and won nine gold medals on the PPA Tour. He also won gold at the Australia Pickleball Open paired with Tyson McGuffin. His partnership with Johns is set to continue in 2026 as well.

Play style

His play is marked by power built on his 185cm frame. With a powerful forehand and a deceptive backhand speed-up as weapons, he shows a commanding presence in play near the kitchen. His style, fusing a tennis power game with pickleball's soft touch, is his hallmark.

Paddle and sponsor

From 2026 he signed a paddle sponsorship deal with the Vietnamese brand Facolos, a contract tied to the company's entry into the US market.

Latest developments

In 2026 he plans to play about 25 tournaments. He has shown strong interest in PPA Tour Asia events and is also looking to expand his activity in Asia.

📎 Reference: PPA Tour, The Kitchen