Nuneaton lad on track to become UK pickleball champion
A rising star in one of the UK’s fastest-growing sports is set to compete at the English Open this summer, following a standout year on the international pickleball circuit.
Josh Roberts, 18, from Nuneaton, claimed gold in his category at last year’s English Open before securing gold in the men’s doubles at the Prague Open last week. His rapid progress has marked him out as one of the most promising young players in British pickleball.
Roberts began playing tennis at a young age before switching to pickleball at 16. He has since built a reputation for powerful yet controlled paddle play.
He currently holds a 5+ DUPR rating, placing him among the top tier of competitive pickleball athletes, with most recreational players typically rated between 3.0 and 3.5.
Alongside his competitive career, Roberts has also begun coaching pickleball in schools, combining his passion for the sport with a background in teaching. Over recent months, this work has taken him across the county, introducing the sport to new audiences at grassroots level. His upcoming sessions include Maidenbower Infant School on 3 and 4 February, followed by Park Hill Infant School on 5 February.
His performances on court have now attracted the attention of British sportswear retailer Third Shot UK, which has signed Roberts to a two-year sponsorship agreement.
The partnership provides structured financial backing to support international competition, coaching, performance apparel, and off-court athleisure wear. The agreement reflects a long-term commitment to Roberts’ development as he continues to compete at elite level.
Third Shot UK said the sponsorship is designed to give Roberts the practical support required to train, compete, and progress consistently, while also supporting the early stages of his personal brand within the sport.
Founder Joe Matthewson said:
“Josh is one of the UK’s leading pickleball athletes. His standards, work rate, and competitive mindset set him apart. This partnership reflects long-term belief, real investment, and a shared view on where British pickleball is heading.”
Co-founder Kevin Johnson added:
“When we started Third Shot, one of our aims was to champion British identity in the sport while building a brand with international ambition. Supporting emerging athletes like Josh sits at the heart of that.”
Roberts said:
“I’m extremely grateful for Third Shot’s support and belief in me. Having this backing allows me to focus fully on competing and improving, while continuing my coaching work in schools. I’m excited to see how far I can push myself over the next two years.”