Charles Barkley and George Kittle Discuss Aging Athletes and Pickleball

Former NBA legend Charles Barkley is known for his outspoken nature. Recently, he shared his thoughts on life after sports with NFL star George Kittle and his wife, Claire, on “The Kittle Cast.” Barkley emphasized the challenges athletes face when transitioning to retirement. For athletes like Kittle and Barkley, leaving behind the sport they love can create a void.

Barkley offered advice to Kittle on staying active post-retirement. He shared his opinions on activities that are popular among retirees. Making a notable point, he criticized the sport of pickleball, which many retirees play.

“There’s not a lot you can do when you get old,” Barkley said. “You can’t go play basketball.” He added, “And let me tell you something. They got this stupid thing going around called pickleball, which is the way old people out here are getting hurt all the time.”

Barkley noted that health professionals often see injuries from pickleball, referring to it as “the gift that keeps giving.” Kittle agreed, mentioning the common injuries like torn ACLs and broken wrists in the sport.

Personal accounts showed how pickleball is more intense than expected. Some participants compete fiercely, comparable to professional tennis standards. Despite its reputation as a pastime for seniors, many younger adults approach it seriously.

Some suggest golf as a traditional post-retirement sport. Barkley, however, refrains from recommending this, leaving that reasoning unspoken.