Player Bio
Sports Background: Lacrosse, Football
Pro Year Start: 2022
Background:
Richard Livornese Jr., a 21-year-old from New Jersey, brings a lifelong passion for sports to the pickleball court. Having played football and college lacrosse for two years at Stevens Institute of Technology, Richard always harbored a dream of becoming a professional athlete. His transition to pickleball was a unique turn during the COVID-19 pandemic, leading him to discover a sport where his dream could truly flourish.
Pickleball Journey:
Richard's journey into pickleball began unexpectedly when a local club opened in his town. He quickly fell in love with the sport, connecting with other young players to form a pickleball academy. This ignited his drive to go professional, a dream he realized when he made his APP Tour debut at the APP New Jersey Open in 2022. As a member of the 2023 APP Next Gen National Team, Richard is rapidly making his mark, driven by his competitive spirit and the desire to be among the best in the sport. He embraces the challenge of playing against top talent from around the world, viewing it as an opportunity to truly test his skills.
On-Court Presence:
Richard approaches every match with a deep love for the game and a commitment to continuous improvement. He is known for his dedication to consistent performance, aiming to win rounds and make quarterfinals in tournaments, with his ultimate goal being to play on Sundays. For Richard, simply stepping onto the court is a highlight, and he finds joy in every tournament win. His passion for the sport is so strong that even practice and drilling are activities he eagerly anticipates.
Off-Court Interests:
Off the court, Richard is an outgoing individual who thrives in the social and welcoming pickleball community. He is passionate about sharing the joy of pickleball, contributing to The Pickleball Clinic, an online platform dedicated to all things pickleball, and teaching the sport whenever he's not competing or studying. Richard believes pickleball is special for its ability to bring people of all ages together, fostering joy and crossing generational boundaries. His goals extend beyond his personal success to seeing the sport grow globally, even envisioning pickleball as an Olympic sport. He is grateful for the numerous individuals who have supported his journey, from early mentors who pushed him to play at higher levels to his family and the APP Next Gen team. He aims to keep rising in the pro scene and play as much pickleball as possible.
On & Off-Court Quick Hits
- Preferred Paddle: The hybrid shape is his favorite.
- Good Luck Ritual: Listening to some music, especially Gracie Abrams, to get in the zone.
- Go-To Strategy: Speeding up the ball into his opponent's hip and then looking to take the second ball cross-court.
- Favorite Drills: He loves net drills, especially pattern drills.
- Downtime Activity: Hanging out with his family is what he enjoys most.
- Favorite Foods: Baked Ziti.
- Favorite Car: His Honda Accord.
- Favorite Colors: Purple.
