Rishabh Pant and Swiggy Join Forces to Co-Own Mumbai Pickle Power in World Pickleball League
Indian cricket star Rishabh Pant has partnered with online food ordering and delivery service Swiggy to co-own the Mumbai Pickle Power franchise in the World Pickleball League (WPBL). This collaboration marks Pant's entry into the world of pickleball, a sport he personally enjoys, as he aims to elevate its popularity. The inaugural edition of the WPBL is set to take place from January 24 to February 2 at the CCI-Brabourne Stadium in Mumbai, featuring 48 players from 14 countries.
The Mumbai Pickle Power squad will include eight players: two from Spain, two from South Korea, and one each from India, the USA, Poland, and the United Kingdom. Mayur Patil will represent India, while Sam Basford, who guided Team England to a gold medal at the European Championships, will coach the team. The Mumbai franchise is scheduled to play its first match against Pune United. This partnership between Pant and Swiggy seeks to amplify the excitement around pickleball, capitalizing on its rapid growth and the increasing interest from athletes and fans.
Sony Sports Network to Broadcast Inaugural World Pickleball League Season
Sony Sports Network has secured the television broadcast rights for the inaugural season of the World Pickleball League (WPBL), set to debut on January 24, 2025. The league, co-founded by Arjuna Awardee Gaurav Natekar, will be broadcast on Sony Sports Ten 2 channels, bringing the fast-paced action of pickleball to a wider audience. The 10-day tournament features six teams: Dilli Dillwale, Pune United, Mumbai Pickle Power, Bengaluru Jawans, Chennai Super Champs, and Hyderabad Superstars.
A total of 48 international players from 14 countries will participate in 18 games, including top Indian pickleball talents like Vrushali Thakare and Mayur Patil. Rajesh Kaul, Chief Revenue Officer of Sony Pictures Networks India, expressed the network’s commitment to showcasing diverse sporting content, highlighting pickleball's surge in popularity both in India and globally. Gaurav Natekar emphasized his delight at partnering with Sony Sports Network, noting their track record in captivating audiences with sports coverage. The collaboration aims to enhance fan engagement and enthusiasm as the WPBL’s debut season approaches. This partnership ensures that pickleball fans can follow the inaugural season live on TV.
Barclays and World Pickleball League Team Up to Serve Global Growth
Barclays Private Bank has announced a multi-year partnership with the World Pickleball League (WPBL), aiming to elevate the sport's global profile and create unique experiences for fans and partners. The collaboration will grant Barclays significant brand visibility across all WPBL platforms, including televised broadcasts, digital channels, and on-site activations at tournaments. This move aligns with Barclays' commitment to supporting the growth of sports, as they also sponsor the Barclays Women’s Super League (WSL) in the United Kingdom.
The inaugural WPBL season, powered by PNG Jewellers, will feature six teams competing from January 24 to February 2, 2025, at the Cricket Club of India (Brabourne Stadium) in Mumbai. Matches, including the grand finale, will be streamed live on FanCode and Sony Sports Network. The season will begin with a highly anticipated match between Mumbai Pickle Power and Pune United. This partnership aims to tap into the rapidly growing community of pickleball enthusiasts while providing valuable exposure for Barclays. The WPBL seeks to leverage Barclays’ global reach and commitment to sports to further enhance pickleball’s visibility.
Thaddea Lock Dominates Egypt's Peak Leagues and Coaches in Sussex
Thaddea Lock, a prominent British pickleball player, has demonstrated her prowess by dominating the Peak Leagues in Egypt, securing gold medals in singles, women's doubles, and mixed events. Her exceptional performance in the league, which culminated in the finals held in El Gouna, Egypt, has further solidified her status in the sport. Lock expressed her appreciation for the Peak League organizers and the hospitality she experienced during the competition.
In addition to her success on the court, Thaddea Lock also shared her expertise with members of the Arun Pickleball Club in Sussex, UK. She provided coaching sessions across several days at Angmering School and Oscar Romero School, working with all members to improve their individual technique. Lock, a former tennis professional and coach, delivered key elements of the game in a fun way and also showed her skills in some games. Having recently competed in international competitions in Egypt and India, Lock's visit to Sussex was a great opportunity for local players to pick up hints and tips from a top player. She has also been picked for the Australian Pickleball League.
English Pickleball Stars Storm Egypt
British pickleball players made a significant impact at the Peak Leagues finals in Egypt, with several athletes bringing home medals. Thaddea Lock had an exceptional run, securing gold medals in singles, women’s doubles, and mixed events. She expressed her enjoyment of the event, particularly praising the organizers for the incredible series of events in 2024 that took place across Europe and culminated in the finals in El Gouna. She specifically thanked the hosts, ZZSports and Sherif Zaher, for the hospitality and activities.
Lock's doubles partner, Molly O’Donoghue, also medaled and expressed gratitude to her uncle and Maria for their support. Other notable British players who earned medals at the Peak Leagues included Louis Laville, James Chaudry, Katie Morris, and Millie Smythe, showcasing the depth of talent in the UK. These achievements reflect the growing strength and popularity of pickleball in the UK, as well as the success of British players on the international stage.
Major League Pickleball Announces Side Out Scoring and New Player Rules for 2025 Season
Major League Pickleball (MLP) has announced significant changes to its competition structure for the 2025 season, including a switch to side out scoring for doubles matches. This means that teams will only score points while serving, a departure from the rally scoring system used since MLP’s inception. Doubles matches will now be one game to 11, with a win by at least two points, though rally scoring will remain for DreamBreakers, which are the singles tiebreak competitions.
Another major change is in player eligibility, with only players under contract with the United Pickleball Association (UPA) being allowed to play for MLP teams. This change will impact several teams, forcing them to drop players not under contract. Additionally, every team must drop at least one player by February 16, 2025, and can keep a maximum of three players from its 2024 roster. To keep a player, teams must pay half the draft capital spent to initially select them in 2024. These changes are set to create a dynamic Free Agency Draft, where teams will bid on draft slots to finalize their 2025 rosters.
Bennett University's 14 Courts Host Thrilling 4th IPA National Pickleball Tournament
Bennett University was the site of the 4th IPA National Pickleball Tournament, hosting 130 players on 14 courts for the opening day. The university's extensive facilities and well-organized setup were crucial in managing the large-scale event. The 14 courts were divided into three areas: Home Courts (1-4), Away Courts (1-6), and PU Courts (1-4), with a clear map provided to aid navigation.
The first day's schedule included various team events, with the U-18, U-16, and Women's Team Events taking place on the Away Courts, and the Open and U-14 Team Events on the Home Courts. The allocation of multiple courts for key events, like the Open and U-14 team events, allowed for simultaneous matches. The meticulous scheduling, along with the quality of the courts, ensured optimal conditions for the players to showcase their skills. Bennett University's infrastructure played a key role in overcoming potential logistical issues associated with a national sporting event.
Celebrity Pickleball Bash: Stars Like Jalen Brunson and Terrell Owens to Light Up San Francisco Courts
The inaugural Celebrity Pickleball Bash, presented by DoorDash, is set to take place at the Warfield Theatre in San Francisco on February 15 and 16, bringing together a mix of athletes and entertainers. Among the celebrities scheduled to participate are New York Knicks point guard Jalen Brunson, former NFL star Terrell Owens, and U.S. Women’s National Team World Cup winner Brandi Chastain. Former MLB All-Stars Hunter Pence and CC Sabathia, along with former NBA player Tyler Hansbrough, will also be playing.
The event will feature both a celebrity-professional pickleball tournament and a team challenge, combining fast-paced pickleball action with celebrity entertainment. In addition to the sports competition, actor Mario Lopez will emcee the festivities, and former NBA All-Star Baron Davis will DJ during the championship match. Professional pickleball players such as Christian Alshon, Hayden Patriquin, Parris Todd, and Jessie Irvine will also participate, with former tennis player John Isner joining them. The PPA Tour is a strategic partner for the event. The Celebrity Pickleball Bash aims to create a lively and engaging platform for fans to interact with celebrities and professional athletes in a party-like atmosphere, and is expected to boost the overall growth of the sport.
UK's First Deaf Pickleball Festival a Smash Hit in Kent
The first Deaf Pickleball Festival in the UK was a resounding success, taking place in Sidcup, Kent, and led by James Townsend and England international Julie Mac. Fifty players and volunteers participated in the inaugural event, which has already spurred plans for a follow-up. According to James Townsend, the atmosphere was "amazing," and the event fostered a strong sense of community. He also noted that many new friendships were formed during the event, which included players of varying abilities who openly shared tips and coached one another.
The next Deaf Pickleball Festival is scheduled for June 21st and 22nd at Loughborough University, and it is intended to be open to everyone, including children and families. Organizers are hoping to double the number of attendees at the next festival. This first festival in Kent shows how the sport of pickleball can bring people together and create a welcoming and inclusive community. The event included both friendly matches and coaching, and organizers have expressed optimism about growing the community further.
Free Pickleball Sessions Serve Up Fun at Chippenham Leisure Centre
Free pickleball sessions are being launched at the Olympiad Leisure Centre in Chippenham, offering the community a chance to try out the sport. Three taster sessions will be available, starting on Saturday, January 25, from 10 am to 12 pm, and continuing on Wednesday, January 29, from 2 pm to 4 pm and again from 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm. The leisure centre will provide all the necessary equipment for these trial sessions.
The sport has seen a surge in popularity in the U.S., with over 36.5 million Americans participating, including celebrities such as Leonardo DiCaprio and Kim Kardashian. In England, Pickleball UK has seen a 65% increase in membership since 2023.
The taster sessions are free, and starting in February, courts will be available for booking at the reception, with weekly pay-as-you-play drop-in sessions also offered. Anyone interested in trying out this popular and growing sport is welcome to attend the sessions.
PicklePad Opens as UK's First Dedicated Indoor Pickleball and Padel Centre
The PicklePad in Mudeford, Dorset, has officially opened its doors as the UK’s first indoor center dedicated to both pickleball and padel. The venue launched with exhibition matches featuring top pickleball players Loren Varndell, Georgie Girt, Marcia Audibert, and Rob Williams alongside some of the top padel players. Rob Williams noted that the opening of the PicklePad is an important step in the growth of pickleball facilities, following the expansion of Telford.
The PicklePad's co-owner, Tania Smeda, reported that membership has been "overwhelming," with a significant number of new players attracted to the introductory sessions. The centre offers tailored sessions throughout the day based on ability. A junior academy is also set to launch. The facility aims to provide a dedicated space to foster growth and accessibility for both pickleball and padel.
Agassi Warns Roddick Ahead of Epic Pickleball Slam 3 Showdown with Graf and Bouchard
Andre Agassi has issued a playful warning to his former doubles partner Andy Roddick ahead of their upcoming clash at the Pickleball Slam 3 in Las Vegas. Agassi, who will team up with his wife Steffi Graf, is set to face Roddick and Eugenie Bouchard in a match for a staggering $1 million prize. In a video shared by the Pickleball Slam, Agassi jokingly cautioned Roddick, saying he looked forward to teaching him “how to lose” on February 16.
This is not the first time Agassi and Roddick have partnered in pickleball; they won the inaugural Pickleball Slam together in 2023. However, Roddick has expressed mock frustration at being “dumped” from Agassi’s team, especially after their victory. He jokingly stated that he was seeking revenge and that Agassi’s stamina “isn’t what it once was”. This year, Agassi and Graf are returning to defend their title, having defeated John McEnroe and Maria Sharapova in 2024. The highly anticipated match between the two teams is set to take place at the Michelob ULTRA Arena at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino, and will be broadcast live on ESPN.
Willem Dafoe and Catherine O'Hara Face Off Against Pro-Athletes in Michelob Ultra's Super Bowl Pickleball Ad
Willem Dafoe and Catherine O'Hara will star in Michelob Ultra's Super Bowl LIX commercial, facing off against professional athletes in a pickleball match. The 60-second ad, set to air on February 9, will feature the actors alongside WNBA star Sabrina Ionescu, Olympic gold medalist Ryan Crouser, and NFL legend Randy Moss. A 15-second teaser released on January 22 provides a glimpse into the chaotic scene, with players pointing and staring in confusion, while Crouser throws his paddle in frustration.
The teaser includes shots of a lively pickleball court and the professional athletes wearing matching "San Marco Pro v. Pro Pickleball Jamboree 2025" T-shirts. Despite the intensity, Dafoe and O'Hara appear unbothered, clinking their beer pints as the Super Bowl date is displayed. The commercial continues Michelob Ultra's theme of featuring celebrities in athletic competitions, following last year’s ad with Jason Sudeikis, Lionel Messi, and Dan Marino in a beach soccer game. The Super Bowl LIX will be held at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans.
Anna Leigh Waters Stays Hungry Amidst Rising Pickleball Competition
Anna Leigh Waters, the universally recognized top female pickleball player, is maintaining her drive and focus despite her continued success in the sport. At just 17 years old, Waters has achieved 31 career Triple Crowns on the PPA Tour, but she admits to feeling nervous before every match, refusing to become complacent. Waters believes that "when athletes start to get complacent and think they’re really good at something is when they get passed or when they stop having the motivation to get better".
While Waters has held the No. 1 ranking in singles, women's doubles, and mixed doubles for a while, she remains focused on improvement rather than resting on her laurels. She credits her parents for keeping her grounded, and notes that traveling with them to tournaments helps her to reset and disconnect from pickleball after matches. Waters is also aware of the growing competition in pickleball, noting that more talented players are entering the sport, and she is excited to play against future generations of players who have been training since childhood. She has no intention of giving up her top ranking and will continue to develop and elevate her gameplay.
Burgess and Molyneux Ace Inaugural West Wight Pickleball Tournament
Martine Burgess and Ian Molyneux have won the inaugural pickleball tournament held at the West Wight Sports and Community Centre on Friday, January 17. The tournament featured 32 competitors and was played on a round-robin basis, with each player participating in eight games. The final match saw Martine and Ian triumph over Jan Cannon and Jason Butchers, while Jon O’Bryan and Rob O’Connell secured third place.
According to Clare Griffin, the Centre Manager, the popularity of the event demonstrates the growing interest in pickleball on the Isle of Wight. Pickleball is a sport recently recognized by Sport England and is known for being accessible to all ages and abilities. The West Wight Sports and Community Centre now offers both adult and children's sessions and employs a coach. The success of the inaugural tournament underscores the increasing popularity of pickleball, and the event created a buzz around the Centre.