Judit Castillo is a professional pickleball player who has rapidly ascended in the sport since transitioning from a successful collegiate tennis career. Born on November 6, 1998, in Teruel, Spain, she began playing tennis at the age of 12. After graduating from high school in Valencia, Spain, Castillo earned a full-ride scholarship to Northwestern State University of Louisiana (NCAA Division I). During her tenure, she achieved top-8 singles victories in the university’s tennis program history and graduated summa cum laude with both a Bachelor’s Degree in Health and Exercise Science and a Master of Science in Sports Administration. (juditcastillo.com)
Following her graduation, Castillo served as the Director of Fitness and Assistant Tennis Pro at Pierremont Oaks Tennis Club and later became the Head of Racket Sports and Fitness at East Ridge Country Club in Shreveport, Louisiana. (juditcastillo.com)
In late 2022, Castillo was introduced to pickleball while teaching tennis in Shreveport. Her passion for the sport quickly grew, leading her to pursue it professionally by early 2023. She committed to intensive training, practicing six days a week, and began competing on both the APP and PPA Tours. (juditcastillo.com)
In 2023, Castillo secured her first PPA medal at the Denver Open, earning a bronze in women’s singles. She continued her success by winning gold in women’s singles at the 2024 PPA Austin Open, marking her first PPA title. (pickleballportal.com) Additionally, she claimed gold in women’s pro singles at the 2023 APP Sunmed Sacramento Open and earned a bronze medal in women’s pro singles at the 2023 Biofreeze USA Pickleball National Championships. (sfapickleball.org)
Castillo’s rapid rise in pickleball is attributed to her strong foundation in tennis, which provided her with technical skills, footwork, and mental toughness. Her dedication and adaptability have made her a formidable presence on the court, earning her respect among peers and fans alike. (pickleballsplay.com)
Off the court, Castillo is known for her commitment to promoting pickleball in Spain, aiming to expand the sport’s reach in her home country. She also enjoys representing both Spain and Louisiana, her adopted home state, on the medal stand. (sfapickleball.org)
As of July 2025, Castillo continues to compete at the highest levels, with her impressive achievements underscoring her status as a rising star in professional pickleball.
