Tyler Loong Player Profile
Tyler Loong is a left-handed professional pickleball player from Utah who has built a reputation for his athleticism and for his Erne shot. Here is a look at his background, playing style, and business ventures. Pro records change quickly, so check the PPA Tour and DUPR for current rankings.
Tyler Loong's Professional Pickleball Career
From Tennis To Pickleball
Loong grew up in Salt Lake City, Utah, and played competitive tennis, continuing at the Division I level at Brigham Young University. He was introduced to pickleball around 2014 by a neighbor and turned professional in 2020.
Known For His Athleticism
Loong is known for his athleticism, quick feet and ability to use his height at the net. He is left-handed, which gives opponents an unusual angle to defend. His signature shot is the Erne, which has earned him the nickname "the Erne King" among fans.
Career Highlights
Loong is a top player in the Intermountain region and has had strong results on the pro tours, including medals at national events and a Major League Pickleball roster spot with the Utah Black Diamonds. Specific title counts and rankings change often, so check current listings.
Business Ventures And Sponsorships
Loong is an athlete sponsor for Vulcan Pickleball and the founder of PickleFuel USA, a hydration company aimed at pickleball players. He has also been involved in the Utah pickleball facility scene, including The Picklr.
Playing Style And Strengths
Loong's tennis background shows in his hand-eye coordination, ball control and shot placement. He plays an aggressive, athletic game at the kitchen line, looks for opportunities to poach and attack, and reads opponents' patterns during a match.
Fun Facts
Favorite Shot: The Erne
An Erne is a volley hit near the net by a player who has run or jumped around the outside of the kitchen, so that they are not in the non-volley zone when they hit the ball. The player cannot touch the kitchen or its line while volleying, so they typically leap from outside the zone, hit the ball in the air, and land outside it. Loong uses it to catch opponents off guard.
Coaching And Clinics
Loong has taught lessons and clinics in Utah. Check his official channels or local facilities for current availability.
Other Players To Watch
Other well-known pros include Ben Johns, a dominant men's player and one of the sport's most successful players, and Simone Jardim, who won the US Open women's singles title four years in a row from 2016 to 2019.
Conclusion
Tyler Loong is a left-handed, athletic Utah pro known for the Erne and for building businesses around the game. He is a good player to watch for anyone who wants to see how to use the Erne effectively.