Steve Smith has joined Nick Kyrgios and a number of famous faces in investing in a fast-growing sport that has taken Australia by storm.

The former Test captain has secured ownership rights of the Sydney Smash, a professional pickleball team in Major League Pickleball Australia. 

Tennis star Kyrgios, 28, has previously invested in the Miami team in America alongside fellow star Naomi Osaka.

'I was drawn to pickleball for its incredible power to connect people,' Smith said. 'With the Sydney Smash, I hope to bring my experience in professional sports to help support the team and elevate the sport.' 

A combination of tennis, badminton and ping pong, Pickleball is played with paddles and a hollow, polymer ball on a court about a third of the size of tennis. 

In the United States, players are drafted by teams owned by people such as James, Tom Brady and tech billioniare Mark Cuban. 

Major League Pickleball Australia is entering its second year and boasts a prize pool of over $700,000 across its six events in Australia, New Zealand and Asia. 

There are twelve teams, including the Smash, with the opening event set for February 23. 

Adam Thompson, CEO of MLP Australia, said: 'Steve's engagement with the Sydney Smash is a game-changer for pickleball in Australia and beyond. 

'His vision and expertise are invaluable assets that will significantly boost the sport's national and international presence.' 

Anthony Liveris, President of MLP Australia, added, 'We are thrilled to partner with Voyager and their world class team of coaches and racquet sports venues. This ownership group represents the very best of Sydney pickleball.'