How Dekel Bar Uses His 6'3" Height to Dominate on the Pickleball Court?

Pickleball has exploded in popularity over the last decade, evolving from a recreational pastime to a serious sport with professional tournaments. And one rising star making a name for himself is 6’3″ Israeli phenom Dekel Bar. With his imposing height and wingspan, Bar has key physical advantages that allow him to overpower opponents. But there’s much more to his game beyond his stature.

Bar only turned pro in 2018 at age 21, yet he’s already etched his name into the record books. Let’s examine how Bar leverages his size and skills to succeed in this exciting sport.

Quick Answer: Dekel Bar’s 6’3″ Frame Provides Ideal Reach and Power for Dominating Pickleball

At 6’3″, Dekel Bar is taller than most pro pickleball players, giving him a significant edge with his long limbs and ability to cover the court. His height allows Bar to generate forceful shots that can’t be matched by shorter opponents. Bar also utilizes his reach advantage to put away balls with his lightning-quick reflexes. Still developing on the pro tour, Bar’s best years likely lie ahead as he continues honing his formidable talents.

How Does Bar’s Height Compare to Other Pro Pickleball Players?

Most professional pickleballers range from 5’10” to 6’2″ tall. So at 6’3″, Dekel Bar is at the very upper end of the height spectrum.

For comparison, pickleball legend Tyson McGuffin is on the shorter side at 5’9″. While the top-ranked player in the world, Ben Johns, stands around 6’1″ or 6’2″.

So Bar has a clear height advantage over many of his peers. Being taller provides tangible benefits on the pickleball court with his long wingspan and ability to cover ground quickly.

What Are Some of Bar’s Biggest Wins and Titles So Far?

Though only a few years into his pro career, Dekel Bar has already racked up some impressive wins:

2021 PPA National Championship Men’s Doubles Winner – Bar won the title with partner Simone Jardim. This was a major statement early in his pro career.
2021 Brazilian Open Men’s Doubles Gold Medalist – Bar again teamed with Jardim to claim the top prize.
2019 European Championship Men’s Doubles Silver Medalist – Bar and Jardim finished second among Europe’s best.
Multiple medals in IFP events – Bar has reached the podium frequently in the International Federation of Pickleball tournaments.

And Bar’s success isn’t limited to doubles. He has top 10 finishes in singles events and will likely claim a championship soon as he keeps developing.

How Has Bar’s Height and Reach Helped His Pickleball Game?

According to Bar himself in an interview, his stature provides key advantages:

“My height and my reach help me cover a lot of the court. I can get to balls that other guys can’t.”

With his long levers, Bar can stretch and return shots that would fly past shorter players. He’s also able to strike the ball with more velocity and weight than most competitors.

Bar uses his 6’3″ frame to aggressively attack shots and put them away before opponents can react. He particularly excels at punching volleys for winning points.

So Bar’s reach and power allow him to hit forceful shots while covering substantial ground in the blink of an eye. His physical gifts perfectly match the fast-paced athletic demands of pickleball.

How Did Bar Get His Start in Pickleball?

Dekel Bar first discovered pickleball as a teenager in Israel. He quickly became enthralled with the sport and decided to focus on it full-time.

Bar then set his sights on the pro tours in North America. He moved to the pickleball hotbed of Austin, Texas to train and compete with the best.

The young Israeli prodigy has continued his rapid ascent up the world rankings since turning pro in 2018. Bar’s drive and early dedication to mastering pickleball no doubt fuel his success today.

Who Does Bar Usually Partner With in Doubles Play?

In both domestic and international tournaments, Dekel Bar frequently partners with fellow up-and-coming Israeli player Simone Jardim.

The two have developed an excellent chemistry from their extensive experience playing together. Bar and Jardim complement one another nicely, with Bar acting as the powerhouse striker and Jardim providing finesse.

This partnership has already produced wins at the highest levels of pickleball. And Bar and Jardim have many more years ahead as doubles partners, given they are both still in their early 20s.

3 Key Skills That Make Bar a Force in Pickleball

Beyond just his natural size, Dekel Bar has sharpened his skills through relentless training to become a world class player:

Powerful Forehand

Bar generates immense pace on his forehand side. He uses his winding shoulder turn and torque to blast winners.

Lightning Fast Reflexes

Bar’s quick reaction time allows him to reach balls lesser players simply can’t. He turns defense into offense in the blink of an eye.

Ability to Take Control with Aggression

Bar dictates play and pushes the pace with his aggressive shot-making. His imposing presence disrupts opponents’ rhythm.

Conclusion: Bar’s Talents and Competitive Fire Will Make Him a Star

At just 21 years old, Dekel Bar has already shown glimpses of greatness. As he continues developing his well-rounded game, Bar will be nearly impossible to stop given his ideal pickleball frame.

His height provides advantages in power and court coverage – allowing Bar to run down shots and lash winners at will. Beyond his physical tools, Bar boasts lightning reflexes, a lethal forehand, and the ability to control matches with aggressive play.

With his masterful pickleball skills and competitive zeal, Bar is certain to win many more titles in the coming years. He has a bright future as he enters the prime of his career. Expect Bar to continue rocketing up the world rankings and cementing his status as an elite pro pickleball player.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dekel Bar and Pickleball

How tall is Dekel Bar?

Dekel Bar is 6 feet 3 inches (190 cm) tall.

What country is Bar from?

Dekel Bar is from Israel.

How old is Dekel Bar?

Bar is currently 21 years old as of 2022. He was born on November 26, 2000.

When did Dekel Bar turn pro in pickleball?

Bar turned professional in 2018 at the age of 17 after a successful junior career.

Who does Bar usually partner with in doubles?

Bar often partners with fellow Israeli player Simone Jardim for pro doubles tournaments.

What paddle does Dekel Bar use?

Bar uses the Selkirk pickleball paddle. He has a sponsorship deal with Selkirk as a pro athlete.

How did Bar get started with pickleball?

Bar first started playing pickleball competitively as a teenager in Israel. He later moved to the US to train and play against top competition.

What is Bar’s highest world ranking?

In singles, Bar’s highest ranking is #9 worldwide. In doubles, he’s been ranked as high as #7.

How tall is the average male pro pickleball player?

Most male pros range from 5’10” to 6’2″ tall. So at 6’3″, Bar is at the upper end of the typical height range.

What are Bar’s biggest strengths as a player?

Bar’s reach, power, quick reflexes, forehand, and ability to control play with aggression make him a dominant force.

What titles has Dekel Bar won?

Bar’s titles include the 2021 PPA National Championship in men’s doubles and the 2021 Brazilian Open men’s doubles gold medal.

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