Before we get cracking with today's PKLBulletin, I wanted to keep you up-to-date with the upcoming launch of the World Pickleball Magazine!
Myself, Jamie Brackpool (my magazine designer from our Total Football Analysis days) and some amazing contributors like Jake Hillman, Gordon Watson, Capt Collins Mubeme, Tara Creasey and more have been working hard behind the scenes to create what we hope is an 80 page+ masterpiece.
Issue #1 will be on the digital newsstand next Monday, 3rd February for just £5.
It very much has a European Championships feel to it with feature interviews with England's Open Head Coach Sam Basford, gold medal winning Senior players Julie Mac and Richard Love, partner advice from England Senior Head Coach Rob Williams, drilling suggestions from Mollie Knaggs and much much more.
But, as the name suggests, World Pickleball Magazine covers the game globally - so you will find tournament roundups from all over the world, insights into what is happening in pickleball from the US to Asia and in between and, hopefully, everything else you'd be looking for in a monthly digital publication too.
So, save the date. Monday 3rd February. You'll probably see it advertised everywhere...
If you missed it yesterday, I covered all the latest action from Day Five of the World Pickleball League in Mumbai. You can read about how Mumbai Pickle Power, coached by Sam Basford, strengthened their position at the top of the table here.
My PKLBulletin assistant editor Joe James wrote an interesting piece on the first MLP trades ahead of the 2025 season - you can find out who moved where, why and what that means here.
Now, on with today's news updates!
Indian Pickleball Revolutionized: AIPA Unveils Nation's First Equipment Research Lab
In a groundbreaking move for Indian sports, the All India Pickleball Association (AIPA) has launched the country’s first dedicated pickleball equipment research and testing laboratory. Partnering with Brainwave SportsTech, this advanced facility will standardize and regulate pickleball equipment, ensuring consistent, high-quality gear for athletes across India. This initiative is set to elevate the playing experience, allowing Indian players to compete at their best.
AIPA President, Arvind Ramesh Prabhoo, expressed pride in this pioneering moment for Indian pickleball, emphasizing the importance of having a facility to ensure equipment adheres to global standards. The lab is not just a national achievement, it's a global milestone. Dr. Sunil Peshane, Director of Brainwave SportsTech, highlighted that this is the only lab in the world exclusively dedicated to pickleball equipment testing, equipped to test under diverse climatic conditions. This will allow for the testing of durability, safety, and performance of equipment, empowering both manufacturers and players.
Historically, Indian players relied on equipment certified by US-based organizations, but this new facility reduces that dependence, establishing India as a trailblazer in the global pickleball ecosystem. Since its inception in 2008, AIPA has been committed to promoting pickleball in India, and this laboratory further underscores their commitment to empowering the Indian pickleball community and enhancing the nation’s presence in international pickleball.
Jaz Agassi Publicly Supports Dad's New Venture
Jaz Agassi, daughter of tennis legends Andre Agassi and Steffi Graf, has shown her unwavering support for her father’s latest endeavour in the world of pickleball by publicly sharing a video of her father promoting his new pickleball equipment line. Andre Agassi has partnered with JOOLA, a well-known pickleball equipment brand, to create a specialized line designed to elevate players’ performance on the court. The collaboration was revealed in August 2024, marking the 30th anniversary of Agassi's first US Open victory.
In a video posted on Instagram, Agassi highlighted how JOOLA's equipment enhances performance and supports the growth of the sport. He emphasized that the company is focused on the growth of the game, and is developing equipment that will meet players at every level of their experience with pickleball. Jaz Agassi reshared this video on her Instagram story, expressing her pride in her father's new venture.
This initiative comes as both Agassi and Graf have become more involved in the sport, with Steffi Graf recently introducing her own pickleball equipment and accessories collection with JOOLA, following in her husband’s footsteps. The couple is set to defend their title at the highly anticipated Pickleball Slam 3 on February 16 in Las Vegas, competing against Andy Roddick and Eugenie Bouchard.
Pickleball Courts Get a Makeover: Chaifetz Group Invests in Soundproof Glass Court Innovation
The Chaifetz Group, known for their commitment to pickleball, is now investing in Pickletile, an innovative company that is changing the way pickleball courts are constructed. Pickletile is using glass walls and partitioning instead of traditional chain link fencing in their designs, bringing a new aesthetic and functionality to the sport. This move is set to address a significant issue in pickleball: noise pollution.
According to Pickletile CEO Scott Miller, their PickleGlass installations are the "leading soundproof innovation in the industry". The company claims its courts are 35% more effective in soundproofing compared to traditional chain link fences with soundproof blankets. This unique design drives sound upwards rather than outwards, making it a great solution for courts built in residential areas, HOAs, apartment complexes and public spaces.
The Chaifetz Group's Managing Director, Ross Chaifetz, will become the Vice Chairman of the Board at Pickletile. The partnership aims to optimize Pickletile's business strategies and help them meet the increased demand for their courts. This investment by the Chaifetz group, who are also owners of the St. Louis Shock MLP team, further signifies their commitment to the sport and its growing infrastructure. The move may lead to improved player experiences based on the technology.
APP Academy at 'The Fort' Bolsters Coaching Ranks with Goldberg and Mixson
The Association of Pickleball Players (APP) has announced the addition of two new coaches to its high-performance coaching staff at The Fort, the APP’s global headquarters in Fort Lauderdale. Regina Goldberg, a longtime APP Tour pro, and Brad Mixson, a pro pickleball coach, will join Pickleball Hall of Famer Kyle Yates in overseeing the APP Academy and the APP Touring Pro Program. This move signals a significant investment in the development of future pickleball stars.
APP Founder Ken Herrmann expressed his excitement about the new additions, highlighting Goldberg's role as a positive role model and Mixson's strong presence in South Florida's pickleball scene. Goldberg, originally from Mexico, has a decorated career including eight APP medals, and has been sharing her pickleball knowledge by running camps nationwide. Mixson, who has a background in tennis, has coached several South Florida pickleball pros. Both coaches are honoured to be part of the APP team and to mentor the future stars of pickleball at The Fort.
In addition to the new coaches, the APP has also launched pricing details for the first year of the APP Academy, the world’s first-ever dedicated educational program for future pickleball pros. The APP has also provided updated details about its APP Touring Pro Program, an invitation-only initiative that offers a world-class training environment for up-and-coming professionals.
Dill Dinkers and Pickleball Central Team Up to Elevate Player Experience
Dill Dinkers, a growing name in indoor pickleball, has announced a strategic partnership with Pickleball Central, the world's oldest and largest speciality retailer for pickleball equipment. This collaboration aims to enhance the player experience by providing access to hand-picked, world-class pickleball products in Dill Dinkers clubs. The partnership will support players of all skill levels and create more welcoming and accessible spaces for pickleball enthusiasts.
Will Richards, Founder and CEO of Dill Dinkers, emphasized the shared vision of making pickleball accessible to everyone. Through this collaboration, Dill Dinkers players will gain in-club access to expert-curated equipment and accessories, including the opportunity to demo the latest paddles and apparel. Taylor Loomis, CEO of Pickleball Central, noted that the partnership is a perfect match, as both companies are committed to providing players with the best products to enjoy and excel at the game.
This partnership will also add a competitive edge to the Dill Dinkers franchise opportunity by providing an additional revenue stream for pickleball club owners. Each Dill Dinkers club will offer an exclusive array of products through the Pickleball Central partnership, including high-performance paddles, apparel, and accessories. Players will also benefit from on-site product demos and top-notch customer service. This combined offering is intended to attract both members and franchise investors.
NFL Legend Donald Driver Enters Pickleball Arena, Partners with Pickleball Kingdom
Former Green Bay Packers star wide receiver, Donald Driver, is stepping into the pickleball world through a partnership with Pickleball Kingdom. Driver has joined forces with two of the company's early franchisees to open nearly two dozen clubs in Wisconsin and Minnesota. Driver's involvement is expected to bring significant attention to the brand and help expand the sport's reach.
Driver, who is an equal partner in the venture with Greg Straub and Doug Reigle of Pickleball Sports, expressed his enthusiasm for the sport. He noted that pickleball connects generations and that Pickleball Kingdom provides a space for people to play and build relationships. Driver’s partnership is also expected to bring new sponsorships and partnerships to the growing franchise.
Pickleball Kingdom is aiming to become a leader in the fast-growing sport, with plans to reach 100 locations by the end of the year. The company also emphasizes its infrastructure for supporting growth, including its partnership with a real estate and construction company that assists franchisees with finding suitable locations. Straub mentioned that the idea of making Driver an equal partner started last year, when they met at a celebrity pickleball tournament and discovered Driver’s passion for the sport. The first Pickleball Sports club is scheduled to open in Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin, in March, with additional locations planned for Green Bay and Madison.
Gujarat Dominates Pickleball Nationals; India Gears Up for Massive PWR DUPR League
Gujarat has emerged as the top team at the 4th Indian Pickleball Association (IPA) Pickleball Nationals, held at Bennett University in Greater NOIDA. The team secured a total of 23 medals, including 11 gold, seven silver, and five bronze, leaving competitors Maharashtra and Delhi trailing in the medal count. The event showcased a significant increase in state participation, highlighting the growing popularity of pickleball across India.
The 4th IPA Nationals was a PWR700 event on the PWR World Tour, where players in the Pro-Open category earned 700 ranking points for their performances. These points contribute to players' standings in the global ranking system, which is a pathway to qualify for the PWR World Series. Gujarat's wins included victories in both the Under-16 and U14 boys categories, the women's Open team event, and multiple boys' doubles titles. Maharashtra finished second with 14 medals (6 gold), while Delhi secured third place with 16 medals (4 gold).
Looking ahead, India is set to host the PWR DUPR India League in March 2025, which is anticipated to be the world’s biggest pickleball league. This event will feature 36 elite players competing across six teams from March 17 to 23 at the Jio World Centre in Mumbai, with a prize purse of USD 6,50,000. The league will showcase top talent, including Will Howells, Megan Fudge DeHeart, and other stars, aiming to set new benchmarks for the sport on a global stage.
Honolulu Serves Up First Indoor, Air-Conditioned Pickleball Oasis
Pickleball enthusiasts in Honolulu can now enjoy the sport year-round with the opening of the city's first indoor, air-conditioned pickleball and social club, Pickles at Forté. The facility, which opened on January 20th, offers a unique blend of pickleball and social atmospheres. The club features state-of-the-art pickleball courts, as well as 25,000 square feet of restaurants and shopping establishments, along with 450 parking spots for visitors.
Pickles at Forté aims to create a community space that reflects the energy and inclusivity of pickleball, according to Chief Operating Officer Andrew Yani. The club's grand opening celebration will be held on January 30th, featuring free open play, giveaways, facility tours, a “Pros vs. Joes” game, and a professional exhibition match. Membership starts at $100 per month and includes free daily open play, two hours of free parking, access to lockers, Wi-Fi, and water stations.
The new facility is a project by the Avalon Group, a real estate development, consulting, and sales company with over $1 billion of real estate experience across the islands. The opening of Pickles at Forté signifies the growing popularity of pickleball and offers a new option for both casual and serious players in Honolulu.
Pure Pickleball Expands to Shavington, Bringing 'Fastest Growing Sport' to Local Community
Pure Pickleball is launching a new club in Shavington, bringing what organizers are calling "the fastest-growing sport in the world" to the local community. The new club, based at Shavington Primary School, is set to open on February 4th. This expansion follows a recent announcement by Sport England which officially recognized Pickleball as a sport.
The club will offer a variety of options, including introductory sessions, open play, lessons, leagues, tournaments, and social events. Co-founder of Pure Pickleball, Chris Beaumont, said the organization is “thrilled to bring this exciting, fast-paced sport to Shavington” and noted that pickleball is about “connections, staying active, and having a great time”. Headteacher at Shavington Primary School, Joanna Young, expressed her delight in partnering with Pure Pickleball to promote health and well-being in the community.
Pure Pickleball operates on a pay-as-you-play model to keep the sport affordable. The expansion of Pure Pickleball to Shavington comes at a time when the sport is experiencing rapid growth, with an estimated 15,000 players in England, up from 8,000 in 2022, and a 58% increase in pickleball venues. Team England was also recently victorious in the European Championships, further demonstrating the growth of the sport.
Shark Tank India Turns Courtroom: Aman Gupta Triumphs Over Anupam Mittal in Pickleball Showdown
In a recent episode of Shark Tank India, the entrepreneurs behind Goodland Pickleball turned the tank into a pickleball court, challenging the Sharks to a friendly match. The challenge came after the founders, Hemant Chauhan and Yogesh Chauhan, pitched their business, which specializes in the construction of pickleball courts, equipment, and branded Goodland clubs. This led to a face-off between the teams: Mumbai, consisting of Yogesh and Anupam Mittal, and Brookelyn, consisting of Hemant and Aman Gupta.
The Brookelyn team, led by Hemant and including Aman Gupta, secured a victory, with Gupta jokingly telling Mittal, "Better luck next time, you played badly.” This friendly competition highlighted the growing popularity of pickleball in India, with around 500 courts being built in the past year. The founders explained that they were seeking funding to expand their operations in India, after already gaining a strong business presence in the United States.
While the Sharks were impressed by the founders' work, Namita, Anupam, and Ritesh decided to opt out due to concerns over the business model. Aman Gupta, however, offered Rs 80 lakhs for 5% equity and 1% royalty until the investment was recouped, with the condition that Hemant spend at least six months in India to drive the business. After a brief negotiation, the deal was closed with the founders agreeing to 6% equity and 0.5% royalty until the Rs 80 lakhs was recovered.
adidas Pickleball Signs Breakout Star Mari Humberg in Latest Player Acquisition
And finally, adidas Pickleball has announced the signing of Mari Humberg, marking its second major player acquisition of 2025, following the signing of Federico Staksrud. Humberg, a rising star in the sport, had a breakout 2024 season, earning five PPA medals and moving up to No. 19 in the women’s doubles rankings. This signing is a significant move for adidas as it continues to expand its presence in the pickleball world.
Humberg, who previously represented adidas during her college tennis career at the University of Louisville, expressed her excitement to be part of a brand that shares her passion for innovation and performance. Bryan Ogle from adidas Pickleball noted that Humberg’s talent, perseverance, and dynamic personality align with the company's values.
A native of Sao Paulo, Brazil, Humberg is adidas’ second signee with South American roots, further underscoring the company's commitment to global talent. Her first tournament representing adidas will be the Proton Tucson Open, set to run from Feb. 5-9. She will compete in women’s singles, women’s doubles with Lindsey Newman, and mixed doubles with Rafa Hewett. This partnership is expected to elevate both Humberg’s career and adidas’ position in the competitive pickleball market.