Adidas Launch, Waters-Parenteau Split, Malaysia Rising & More
Good morning, pickleballers!
Another day, another update of world pickleball news for you to get into. It's a quiet one today, warning you in advance.
Don't forget to check out our new podcast (we're recording today too, drop us a comment on the article if there is anything you'd like us to cover!)
We have recorded a taster, a preview if you will - where we tell you what the podcast is going to be about moving forwards. It's 30 minutes, it's well worth the time investment - so give it a listen.
April 22nd Launch: Adidas Unveils Pro-Designed Pickleball Paddles Poised to Dominate
USA – April 8, 2025 - Pickleball enthusiasts and players should mark their calendars for April 22, 2025, as Adidas is set to release its highly anticipated new line of pickleball paddles. These paddles have been designed in conjunction with their elite team of professional players: Federico Staksrud, Rafa Hewett, and Mari Humberg. Early indications and positive feedback from these pros suggest that the new Adidas paddles are expected to be popular among both professional and amateur players. This launch signifies a major step for Adidas in the pickleball market, as they aim to deliver performance-driven equipment designed with top-level input.
Adidas is entering the 2025 pickleball market with a “tight but right” line of paddles, indicating a focused approach to cater to a variety of playing styles. According to market research, the brand has identified key player types and developed paddles to suit each one. This strategy aims to ensure that every pickleball player can find an Adidas paddle that perfectly matches their needs and preferences. By offering a curated selection, Adidas intends to provide quality and accessibility across the spectrum of pickleball players.
North Carolina Nightmare: Loss to Johnson/Black Catalyzes Parenteau-Waters Breakup
USA – April 8, 2025 - The recent tough loss suffered by Anna Leigh Waters and Catherine Parenteau at the Veolia North Carolina Open against Jorja Johnson and Tyra Black appears to have played a significant role in the dissolution of their partnership. This defeat highlighted the fact that the once-dominant duo was no longer considered unbeatable. Statistics from the match reveal that Johnson and Black strategically attacked Parenteau more often than Waters, with 22 speedups directed at Parenteau compared to 12 at Waters. Both players also averaged eight errors in the games they lost, indicating potential underlying issues contributing to the defeat and subsequent split.
Blockbuster Deal: Major League Pickleball Lands First Asia-Based Platinum Partner in Toray Industries
Japan/USA – April 8, 2025 - Major League Pickleball (MLP) has announced a landmark sponsorship agreement with Toray Industries, Inc., a Japanese materials manufacturer, making Toray the first-ever Asia-based platinum partner of the league. This significant partnership will see Toray’s “Kitchen” branding prominently featured at all MLP events. The deal represents a major step in expanding MLP’s brand reach internationally as pickleball continues its rapid growth in the United States.
Malaysia Mania: Southeast Asian Nation Emerges as Pickleball's Surprising Next Hotspot
KL, Malaysia – April 8, 2025 - Malaysia is rapidly emerging as pickleball’s next major hub in Asia, experiencing a significant surge in popularity. Data from DUPR, the skill rating app for pickleball, reveals that Malaysia ranks third globally in terms of users, trailing only the United States and Canada. This growth signifies a “silent revolution” taking place in the country, where badminton is traditionally the dominant sport.
According to DUPR, the leading skill rating app for pickleball, Malaysia has remarkably risen to become the third-ranked country globally in terms of app users. This places Malaysia ahead of every other country outside of North America, with only the United States and Canada boasting more DUPR users. This statistic underscores the rapid and significant adoption of pickleball within Malaysia.
Don't forget to get your copy of the April World Pickleball Magazine!
The World Pickleball Magazine for April is now on the digital shelves.
Packed full of pickleball content, this 140-page issue covers everything you need to know about the European scene - leagues, tours and tournaments with exclusive interviews with the people who make them happen.
Of course, we have all your other favourites in there - in pictures, tournament roundups, pickleball pioneers, referee's room, drill bits, future stars and more.
For just £5 (probably less than your last pickleball session) a copy - we also have 4-monthly and annual subscriptions available - you can immerse yourself in the world of pickleball like never before.
You can purchase directly from the shop here, or if you have Magzter you can get it through your subscription here.