APP Breakthrough Series, Johns Controversy, Ed Helms on Pickleball
Good morning, pickleballers!
Welcome to your Thursday. The weekend is closing in.
Plenty of pickleball stuff happening for me this week - at our Pure Pickleball venue in Cheshire, UK we've had our first singles series night on Tuesday and then our first Doubles League night last night - both of which seem to have gone down very well.
Tuesday saw the launch of May's World Pickleball Magazine - 130+ pages of pickleball goodness including interviews with the man behind the biggest World Tour in existence, a partner in Brazil's professional leagues, two top talents on court from Asia and much, much more plus all your favourite features.
You can download your copy today for just £5.00 or, better still, take out a subscription and save some money moving forward!
And yesterday,
Martin Clark, Australian pickleball star, joined Chris and Gordon for the weekly podcast.
The guys talked about the English Nationals Singles tournament and whether Chris did well or not, the PPA Asia announcement, the ownership beef in India and try to decide how dark is too dark to play - has anyone asked Ben Johns?
Here's today's latest world pickleball news.
New APP "Breakthrough Series" Launched: A Bold New Path for Rising Pickleball Stars in 2025
Boise, Idaho, USA – The Association of Pickleball Players (APP) recently unveiled the inaugural schedule for the APP Breakthrough Series, a brand-new tournament circuit set for 2025. This series is specifically designed to showcase emerging pro pickleball talent and provide more playing opportunities for up-and-coming pro players and amateurs of all skill levels, from 3.0 to aspiring pros, and all ages.
Participants in the APP Breakthrough Series events will have the chance to earn additional points, rankings, and prize money, ultimately paving a pathway to “breakthrough” into APP Tour competitions. APP Founder Ken Herrmann emphasised that the series aims to be a resource for all players, especially at the grassroots level, offering more opportunities.
Five APP Breakthrough Series events are scheduled across the nation for 2025, including stops in Boise, ID (Sept. 4–7), Brigham City, UT (Sept. 24–27), Griffin, GA (Oct. 16–19), Detroit, MI (Oct. 23–26), and Robbinsville, NJ (Nov. 6–9). Unlike APP Tour events, these tournaments will not be televised or livestreamed.
Johns Brothers Forfeit MLP Payouts After Controversial Lighting Walkout in Columbus
Columbus, Ohio, USA – Ben and Collin Johns have agreed to forfeit their event payouts from this past weekend’s MLP Columbus event. The brothers, who are teammates on the Carolina Hogs, withdrew from their remaining matches after playing just two. They cited concerns with the venue’s lighting at Pickle & Chill as the reason for their withdrawal.
Ben Johns defended their decision, stating that the lighting levels were significantly below professional tennis standards and questioning if his partner being hit in the face was related to the poor lighting conditions. He believes minimum standards must be met. Major League Pickleball released a statement confirming the brothers were granted permission to withdraw and agreed to forfeit their payouts following a formal review. After their withdrawal, the Carolina Hogs used on-site alternates and finished the weekend with an 0-6 record. The brothers are still expected to compete in upcoming tournaments.
"What's Up With the Pickleball?" Actor Ed Helms Left Stunned by Chicago's Court Invasion
Chicago, Illinois, USA – Actor Ed Helms recently visited downtown Chicago to promote his new book and was seemingly taken aback by the prevalence of pickleball courts. Helms, known for his roles in popular shows and films, confessed he has never played the sport but was prompted to ask his Instagram followers about Chicago's apparent "obsession".
In a video shared online, Helms commented on the "good vibes in Chicago" but immediately followed up with questions about the city's dedication to pickleball. He noted seeing "like 50 pickleball courts in the middle of downtown," which he described as "pretty prime real estate," questioning what he was missing and why Chicago was "super crazy about pickleball".
Helms' public inquiry sparked numerous replies from fans eager to explain the sport's appeal and popularity. His surprise highlights pickleball's status as the fastest-growing sport and its increasing visibility, particularly in urban areas where courts are rapidly appearing. This moment adds further spotlight to the sport’s rise.
12-Year-Old Prodigy Pierce Behr Rises to Top 10, Eyes World Championship Gold in Dallas
Dallas, Texas, USA – Twelve-year-old Pierce Behr from The Woodlands, Texas, is rapidly becoming a notable name in pickleball. Just two years after discovering the sport on his grandfather's backyard court, Behr now ranks among the top 10 players nationwide in the Boys 14 and Under division across singles, doubles, and mixed doubles categories.
Pierce Behr was drawn to pickleball's "awesome" competitiveness and versatility and dedicated himself to mastering the game from the start. His swift rise reflects his passion and skill.
Now, the young athlete has his sights set on the Pickleball World Championships, which will be held in Dallas, Texas, from November 3 to 9. Behr aims to compete and win medals at this major event. As pickleball continues its rapid growth as the fastest-growing sport in the U.S., emerging young talents like Pierce Behr are playing a significant role in driving its popularity.
Heated MLP Clash Revealed: Hayden Patriquin Breaks Silence on Anna Leigh Waters Court Showdown
Columbus, Ohio, USA – Pro pickleball player Hayden Patriquin recently addressed his highly debated on-court exchange with Anna Leigh Waters during a Major League Pickleball (MLP) match. Speaking on the Bad Calls – Pickleball Podcast, Patriquin detailed the heated moment that sparked significant discussion within the community.
Patriquin explained that tension escalated after a match when Waters laughed at him. When he asked why, she responded, "That's what you deserve," referencing his earlier comments. Patriquin admitted to using strong language in his reply, which he now regrets, stating he "shouldn’t have said what I said". He clarified his remarks were a reaction to the tension, not directed personally at Waters, and not a sign of being a "sore loser".
Despite the on-court moment, Patriquin affirmed that his relationship with Waters has always been friendly and respectful off the court. He believes heated exchanges, or "chirping," can add intensity to the game but emphasised the need for accountability. Patriquin suggested the incident, though controversial, could ultimately help grow the sport, a sentiment echoed by Major League Pickleball.
Minnesota Masters Serves Up $2,000 Cash Prizes, New Perks for 2025 Tournament
Minnesota, USA – The 2025 Minnesota Masters pickleball tournament is set to be held at MEGA Pickleball in Minnesota on July 19-20. This year's event introduces exciting additions, including new cash prizes and a PicklePerks rewards system.
A new Open Cash Prize division has been added, featuring $2,000 in cash prizes for the winners of the men's doubles, women's doubles, and mixed doubles events. Top players are encouraged to register early as this division is capped at 14 teams per event.
The tournament format includes a round-robin followed by bracket play, ensuring each player participates in a minimum of six games. Doubles matches are scheduled for Saturday, mixed doubles for Sunday, and singles for either day. The official ball will be the Franklin X40, and DUPR scores will be automatically posted. Beyond cash, winners will also receive custom medals and other prizes. Furthermore, players can now accumulate PicklePerks rewards through registration and victories, which can be used for APA apparel or applied towards future events. Early bird registration is currently available with a $10 discount using code "MegaMasters10" until June 19th or the first 100 registrants.
Northern Crocs Conquer MLPA New Zealand Cup, Showcase APAC Pickleball Power
New Zealand, APAC – The MLPA New Zealand Cup concluded last week, with the Northern Crocs emerging as the champions. Led by Andie Dikosavljevic, the team secured their title by defeating the Sydney Smash 3-1 in a thrilling final match. The Sydney Smash finished the tournament as the runner-up.
This event served to highlight the growing popularity of pickleball in the APAC region and featured strong performances. Alongside the MLPA Cup, the PPA New Zealand Cup also took place, showcasing fierce competition across singles, doubles, and mixed doubles divisions. JOOLA-sponsored athletes notably participated and performed well in these categories. The success of the Northern Crocs in clinching the cup further underscores the rising talent and competitive spirit in the region's pickleball scene.
Penang Announces Exchange Tourney 2025: Team Competition with RM8,000 Top Prize
Penang, Malaysia – The Penang Pickleball Association is set to host the Penang Pickleball Exchange Tour Tournament 2025 from June 27 to 30 at Pickleland Penang. Supported by various organisations including the Malaysia Pickleball Association, this event will feature team competition.
Teams will consist of 10 to 12 players competing in men's doubles, women's doubles, and mixed doubles matches. The tournament aims for a minimum of 16 teams, with the potential to accommodate up to 24. The prize money is contingent on participation, with the champion team receiving RM5,000 if 16 teams register, or an impressive RM8,000 if the maximum of 24 teams participate.
Registration is RM2,500 per team, covering tournament entry and a special closing dinner, along with perks like a jersey and goodies. Players must be at least 18 and from the same state. The tournament structure includes a round-robin followed by knockout rounds. This event highlights the growing competitive pickleball scene in the region.
Bollywood Star Jackky Bhagnani Swears By Pickleball for Fitness, Co-Owns World League Team
Mumbai, India – Bollywood actor and producer Jackky Bhagnani recently highlighted his passion for pickleball, sharing how the sport helps him maintain fitness amidst a busy career. Celebrating World Athletics Day, Bhagnani explained that playing pickleball regularly is key to staying active, clearing his mind, and balancing his work and health despite tight production schedules and travel.
Bhagnani described pickleball as a "contemporary, compact version of tennis" with "addictive energy" that is accessible and enjoyable for everyone. He emphasised its broad health benefits, positively impacting mental and physical well-being, improving cardiovascular fitness, balance, coordination, and agility. He believes its ease makes it fit seamlessly into busy routines.
Deepening his involvement, Jackky Bhagnani and his wife, actress Rakul Preet Singh, have become co-owners of the Hyderabad Superstars team in the 2025 World Pickleball League. Their investment is driven by a desire to increase awareness and motivate others to engage in physical activity through the sport. Bhagnani encourages everyone to discover the fun and fitness pickleball offers.
Galician Universities Unite for Successful Pickleball Tournament
Ferrol, Spain – In a landmark event highlighting unity and competition, the inaugural I Tour Unigal 2025 pickleball tournament recently concluded at the Industrial Campus of Ferrol on Tuesday, May 6. This vibrant competition was a collaborative effort by the three public universities of Galicia: the University of Santiago de Compostela, the University of Vigo, and the University of A Coruña, in partnership with the Denis Suarez Foundation.
Spanning from February to May, the tournament unfolded across campuses in Ourense, Pontevedra, Santiago, Lugo, and A Coruña. The grand finale in Ferrol featured two categories: an open division for all ages and skill levels, and a veterans category for players over 35. Pickleball, described as fusing elements of tennis, padel, badminton, and table tennis, is played on a court similar to a badminton court and is accessible for individual or doubles play.
The event's electrifying atmosphere marked a pivotal moment for pickleball in Galicia's universities. Its engaging and inclusive nature has quickly made it a favourite among students and sports enthusiasts, setting the stage for its continued growth within the community.
Dubai Hosts First Pickleball Open 2025 at Pickleturf
Dubai, UAE – Dubai is set to make regional sports history by hosting the inaugural Pickleball Open 2025 from May 8 to 11. This major international event marks the professional debut of pickleball in the region and is backed by the Dubai Sports Council. The tournament is organised by Sport Spirit Fed (SSF) Events in collaboration with India-based Global Sports, a prominent force reshaping the pickleball landscape.
The entire tournament will take place at Pickleturf Dubai, the UAE's first dedicated professional pickleball venue located at Port Rashid. Designed for both elite athletes and newcomers, Pickleturf offers a world-class facility. Over 275 players from more than 15 countries are expected to compete, showcasing the sport's rapid global expansion.
Khalid Al Awar of the Dubai Sports Council stated that supporting the event aligns with the vision to promote emerging sports and encourage an active lifestyle. Global Sports has announced plans to develop three international Pickleball IPs in Dubai focused on tourism, youth engagement, and international competitiveness, aiming to position Dubai as a year-round pickleball destination and a major contributor to the sport's global growth. The event is seen as more than a competition – it's the launch of a movement.