Big Bank builds courts in Manila plus the rise of Gecheva and H. Jansen
Good morning, pickleballers!
I hope your week has got off to a flying start - it's busy here at WPM HQ as we are putting the finishing touches to the April Magazine (out Thursday!)
As announced earlier in March, it is very much themed on the European Tour scene and I've been speaking to the main people behind pickleball's competitive growth over the last two years.
But, of course, we still have your staple diet of monthly sections - our regional contributors covering stories across the globe have two new additions, to be revealed on Thursday (reporting back on the wheelchair and senior European tour scenes). We also have a debut for our new Gear Guru - the UK's best-known and best-loved retailer of all things pickleball (a bit of a giveaway that one, for sure).
And there are more announcements - providing all goes well and there are no technical glitches (and when have I ever been associated with a technical glitch, right?) Wednesday noon UK will see the first-ever recording of the World Pickleball Podcast!
That's right - Gordon Watson and I will be making the time zones work and getting into all manner of subjects, some of which will possibly be pickleball-related. You absolutely don't want to miss it - and it (should) be available on all the usual podcast platforms at some point this week.
You probably deserve a couple of hints too - there will be a couple more big announcements coming up just as soon as the ink dries on some contracts involving more World Pickleball Magazine things. Given we are only just three months old, they are super exciting.
Now, I suspect you'd like some pickleball news - that's why you are really here...
Philippine Central Bank Catches the Pickleball Craze, Building Courts for Enthusiastic Staff
Manila, Philippines – The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) is showing its athletic side, following its earlier embrace of badminton by now catching the pickleball bug. The central bank is reportedly building its own outdoor pickleball court fronting Manila Bay. This move comes after a surge in popularity for the sport among its employees, with the BSP pickleball club garnering over 160 passionate members in the past two months. Inspired by this enthusiasm, BSP management has agreed to set up pickleball nets across its Malate compound after office hours. The burgeoning club isn't just playing for fun; they are actively seeking dual meets with other government agencies and even financial institutions, eager to prove their mettle on the court. This trend highlights the growing appeal of pickleball beyond just monetary policy in the Philippines.
Toby's Sports Philippines Aces the Pickleball Market with Pro-Endorsed Paddle Line
Manila, Philippines – Toby’s Sports, the Philippines’ leading multi-brand sports retailer, is making a significant play in the booming pickleball market with the launch of a premier line of paddles under its in-house brand, Toby’s Pro. The highlight of the collection is the ACP Ares paddle, co-designed with Anna Clarice Patrimonio, a prominent Asian pickleball professional. Patrimonio, who has excelled in both tennis and now pickleball, has already achieved success on the international stage, winning an Asian and World Pickleball Championship using the co-developed paddle. Toby Claudio, President of Quorum International Inc., emphasized Patrimonio’s competitive spirit and achievements as the perfect partnership for this project. Toby’s Sports is also introducing the Pinnacle, Atlas, and TCR models as part of its strategy to cater to Filipino sports enthusiasts.
Red Rock Open Courts New Format: "Semifinal Saturday" Amplifies Tournament Thrills
Red Rock, USA – The Black Desert Resort Red Rock Open introduced a modified draw format that added a new level of excitement to the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) event. Unlike traditional tournaments where finalists emerge throughout the week, the Red Rock Open concluded each day’s event after the quarterfinals. This innovative approach created "Semifinal Saturday," where all ten semifinals were contested, leading into the traditional Championship Sunday. This change aimed to condense the high-stakes matches into the weekend, providing a more concentrated viewing experience for fans and players alike. The new format, which will be used again in North Carolina, proved to be an interesting twist in the world of professional pickleball tournaments.
Johns' Absence Looms Large as Intense Mixed Doubles Final Grips Red Rock
Red Rock, USA – The mixed doubles final at the Black Desert Resort Red Rock Open delivered a thrilling conclusion to the tournament, with Dekel Bar and Parris Todd ultimately prevailing over Christian Alshon and Catherine Parenteau in a lengthy and hard-fought match. The absence of pickleball star Ben Johns from the mixed doubles draw created an open field, with players seemingly more driven to seize the opportunity for a gold medal. The final match extended late into Sunday night, showcasing the intense competition and exhaustion of the athletes who “left it all out on the court”. Bar/Todd’s victory in five close games highlighted the depth of talent in the mixed doubles category and the impact of Johns' absence.
From Unknown to Almost Unstoppable: Gecheva's Remarkable Run Shakes Up Red Rock Doubles
Red Rock, USA – Christa Gecheva, a newcomer to the PPA Tour, made a significant impact at the Black Desert Resort Red Rock Open in the women’s doubles event. Paired with Kaitlyn Christian and seeded #15, Gecheva and Christian pulled off a major upset by defeating the #3 seeds, Tyra Black and Jorja Johnson. Their impressive run continued as they took out the #9 seed, Mary Brascia and Maggie Brascia, earning a spot in the semifinals. Although they ultimately finished just outside the medal stand after losing their semifinal and bronze matches, Gecheva’s solid play, characterized by good drops, drives, and hands at the kitchen line, along with Christian’s powerful forehand, signalled the potential of this new partnership at the highest levels of professional pickleball.
Alshon and Daescu Reign Supreme in Red Rock, Cementing Status as Top Men's Doubles Duo
Red Rock, USA – Christian Alshon and Andrei Daescu emerged as the dominant force in men’s doubles at the Black Desert Resort Red Rock Open, securing the gold medal. Their victory in a highly anticipated final against Hayden Patriquin and Federico Staksrud cemented their claim as a top team in the sport. This win marked their second consecutive tournament victory, following back-to-back wins in Arizona earlier in 2025. With Ben Johns’ recent split from his brother Collin, the men’s doubles scene has seen new contenders vying for the top spot. Alshon and Daescu’s consistent performance and victory in Red Rock position them as the team to beat, though they will face continued challenges from other top duos like Johns and his new partner Gabe Tardio.
Another Tournament, Same Dominance: Anna Leigh Waters Sweeps Foes at Red Rock Open
Red Rock, USA – Anna Leigh Waters continued her remarkable reign at the Black Desert Resort Red Rock Open, showcasing her unparalleled dominance in the women’s division. In women’s singles, she did not lose a single game, conceding an average of less than three points per game. Paired with Catherine Parenteau in women’s doubles, Waters maintained her flawless record, again not dropping a single game en route to the gold medal. While the men’s side of professional pickleball sees constant battles for the top ranking, Waters' consistency and level of play place her significantly ahead of the competition. Despite the inevitability of future challenges, there are currently no signs of her dominance waning.
BMW Drives Sponsorship into US Open Pickleball Championships, Expecting 50,000 Fans
East Naples, USA – The US Open Pickleball Championships has secured a major new sponsor, with BMW joining as an official partner for the 2025 event. The tournament, scheduled to take place from April 26 to May 3 at the USOP National Pickleball Center at East Naples Community Park, is anticipating a massive turnout of more than 50,000 spectators and over 3,000 players from 40 countries. BMW joins a list of premium sponsors including Margaritaville, Minto, and Franklin Sports, further highlighting the growing commercial appeal of pickleball. This sponsorship underscores the increasing prominence of the US Open as a premier event on the global pickleball calendar.
Pickleball Takes Over South Carolina: 300 Players Fuel Economic Surge at Cayce PPA Event
Cayce, USA – A significant pickleball event, the Cayce PPA Challenge Tour Tournament, brought over 300 players from across the country to Cayce, South Carolina, on the last day of March 2025. Hosted at the newly constructed 16-court facility in Henry C. Moore Park, the tournament provided athletes with the opportunity to earn professional points and prize money. Tanner Groff, Vice President of the PPA Challenge Tour, emphasized the tournament's importance for players aiming to advance professionally. The thriving local pickleball scene and the new facility were key factors in Cayce hosting this large-scale event.
Cayce Courts Could Net $3.5 Million Economic Boost Thanks to Pickleball Tournament
Cayce, USA – Lexington County's investment of $1.3 million in new pickleball courts at Henry C. Moore Park is already yielding significant returns, with the recent Cayce PPA Challenge Tour Tournament expected to generate substantial economic impact. Brian Clary of the Lexington County Recreation and Aging Commission had previously estimated that such a tournament could attract around 1,000 visitors and contribute approximately $3.5 million to the local economy. Alexandra Mouton of the Cayce Pickleball Complex noted a significant increase in registration following marketing efforts, highlighting the PPA's reach in bringing tourism to the Cayce and Columbia areas. Scott Powers with Experience Columbia SC Sports estimated that players alone would have spent around $150,000 in the local community during the tournament.
Helena Jansen's Historic Triple Crown Signals Rising Star in PPA Challenger Series
Cayce, USA – Helena Jansen made a resounding statement at the inaugural PPA Challenger Series event held at the Cayce Pickleball Complex, achieving a remarkable Triple Crown. Jansen captured gold in women’s singles, women’s doubles (partnering with Pierina Imparato), and mixed doubles (partnering with James Delgado). Her dominant performance in Cayce marks her as a player to watch as she now returns to the main PPA Tour schedule at the Veolia North Carolina Open. There, she will compete in women’s singles, women’s doubles with Zoey Weil, and mixed doubles again with Delgado. Jansen’s success highlights the competitive nature of the Challenger Series and the emergence of new talents in professional pickleball.
Unlock Your Pro Dreams: PPA Challenger Series Offers Golden Ticket to the Main Tour
Nationwide, USA – The newly launched PPA Challenger Series, powered by JOOLA, provides a crucial pathway for aspiring professional pickleball players to reach the highest levels of the sport. The series, which kicked off in Cayce, SC, will feature 14 more stops throughout the season. Players competing in these events can earn valuable ranking points. At the end of the season, the four players with the most ranking points will qualify for the prestigious PPA Challenger Showdown at the 2025 Pickleball World Championships in Dallas, Texas. The ultimate reward for the winners of the PPA Challenger Showdown in each event will be a coveted PPA Tour contract, offering them the opportunity to compete regularly with the top professionals in pickleball.
Johns Withdraws from North Carolina Singles After International Pickleball Tour
Cary, USA – Pickleball sensation Ben Johns has announced his withdrawal from the men’s singles competition at the upcoming Veolia North Carolina Open. This decision comes after his recent participation in JOOLA’s Pickleball Legends Tour which took him to Vietnam and China. Johns, who was seeded fourth in the men’s singles draw, will not have the chance to defend his 2024 Triple Crown in North Carolina, a feat he hasn’t repeated since. However, the 26-year-old is still scheduled to compete in men’s doubles with Gabe Tardio and mixed doubles with Anna Leigh Waters at the tournament. Other notable withdrawals from the event include Gabe Joseph, Marshall Brown (men’s singles), Alix Truong (women’s singles), Travis Rettenmaier (men’s singles), and Lingwei Kong (women’s singles).
MLP Orlando Match Schedule Drops, Setting Stage for Premier League Pickleball Showdown
Orlando, USA – Major League Pickleball (MLP) has released the full match schedule for its season-opening MLP Orlando event, set to take place from Thursday, April 24 through Sunday, April 27 at the USTA National Campus in Orlando, FL. The highly anticipated event will feature all 16 Premier Level teams in action, offering fans a thrilling start to the 2025 MLP season. The schedule includes matches on the Championship Court and the Grandstand Court throughout the four-day event, with some matches slated for broadcast on Pickleballtv and select regional networks. This inaugural event promises intense competition as teams vie for early-season momentum in the premier pickleball league.
New Leadership Aims to Preserve Naples' Pickleball Soul While Expanding US Open
Naples, USA – The US Open Pickleball Championships and the USOP National Pickleball Center at East Naples Community Park are entering a new chapter under the leadership of veteran sports executive Mike Dee. Dee takes over from Jim Ludwig, whose vision transformed Naples into the world’s pickleball epicenter. While acknowledging the significant growth and investment in professional pickleball, Dee is committed to safeguarding the accessible culture that fueled the sport’s popularity in Naples. His plans include nearly doubling participation in the US Open to 6,000 players in the coming years and expanding the facility to accommodate the growth. Dee aims to maintain the unique blend of elite competition and amateur spirit that defines the Naples pickleball experience.
US Open to Cultivate Future Stars with New Elite Pickleball Academy
Naples, USA – Building on its legacy as the epicenter of pickleball, the USOP National Pickleball Center in Naples is launching an elite academy this fall under the guidance of former Top 30 professional player Justin Romero. This initiative aims to provide a preeminent training facility for both casual players and aspiring tournament headliners. Mike Dee, the new leader of the US Open and the facility, envisions the academy as a key component in the continued growth of pickleball, both locally and nationally. By offering the opportunity to train with an elite player like Romero, the US Open seeks to cultivate the next generation of pickleball stars while reinforcing Naples' position at the forefront of the sport.
Pickleball a "Natural Fit" for China, Says Legend Ben Johns After Shanghai Visit
Shanghai, China – Professional pickleball player Ben Johns believes that pickleball has a bright future in China, citing its accessibility and appeal. Johns recently participated in the Pickleball Legends Tour 2025 held at Jingwu Stadium in Shanghai, an event that showcased the rapid growth and unique charm of the emerging sport to Chinese fans. Speaking to China Daily, Johns expressed his optimism about pickleball's potential in the country. His participation in the tour, along with other top players, signifies the growing international interest in expanding pickleball's reach and introducing it to new markets like China.
North Carolina Open Continues "Semifinal Saturday" in Expanded Tournament Format
Cary, USA – The Veolia North Carolina Open, the ninth tournament of the Carvana PPA Tour, will be the second event to feature the new "Semifinal Saturday" format. Following its debut at the Red Rock Open, this format involves Wednesday singles, Thursday mixed doubles, Friday women’s and men’s doubles, followed by all semifinals on Saturday and Championship Sunday. The tournament, held at Cary Tennis Park, has attracted over 1,200 players, highlighting its significance on the tour. The RollX surface courts will host the action, which will be covered live on PickleballTV starting at 11 am Eastern each day. This revised schedule aims to intensify the weekend competition and provide a more streamlined viewing experience.
Returning Pickleball Stars Brace for North Carolina Open After Global Travels
Cary, USA – Several top pickleball players, including Ben Johns, Anna Bright, Brooke Buckner, and Tyson McGuffin, are set to compete in the Veolia North Carolina Open after recently returning from overseas engagements. Their participation adds significant star power to the event, raising questions about how they will fare after their travels. Johns, despite withdrawing from singles, will compete in doubles. Bright is returning from Asia to partner with Rohrabacher in women's doubles. With these and other top athletes back in action, the North Carolina Open promises high-level competition and intriguing matchups as players readjust to the PPA Tour circuit.
Fresh Pairings and Fierce Rivalries Headline Loaded Men's Doubles Draw in North Carolina
Cary, USA – The men’s doubles competition at the Veolia North Carolina Open is anticipated to be highly competitive, featuring both new partnerships and budding rivalries. All eyes will be on Andrei Daescu and Christian Alshon, who have a strong 19-1 record as Team Power Forward and are looking to continue their winning streak. Also reuniting are Gabe Tardio and Ben Johns, eager to secure their second consecutive title as a team. Both these top teams find themselves in the same half of the draw, setting the stage for a potential showdown. Additionally, the performance of JW Johnson and CJ Klinger as the 5 seed will be closely watched as they aim to find their rhythm as a duo. The draw is further strengthened by Hayden Patriquin and Federico Staksrud, who have consistently medaled in every tournament they’ve entered.
Triple Crown Winner Jansen Steps Up to Main PPA Tour at North Carolina Open
Cary, USA – Helena Jansen, fresh off her remarkable Triple Crown victory at the inaugural PPA Challenger Series event in Cayce, SC, will be competing on the main PPA Tour schedule at the Veolia North Carolina Open. Jansen’s dominant performance, where she won gold in women’s singles, women’s doubles, and mixed doubles, has positioned her as a rising star in professional pickleball. At the North Carolina Open, she is slated to participate in women’s singles, women’s doubles (partnering with Zoey Weil), and mixed doubles (partnering again with James Delgado). Her performance at this higher level of competition will be a key storyline to follow as she looks to build on her recent success.
Dominant Daescu/Alshon Partnership Faces Toughest Tests at North Carolina Open
Cary, USA – The formidable men’s doubles team of Andrei Daescu and Christian Alshon, known as Team Power Forward, enters the Veolia North Carolina Open as the 3 seed with an impressive record of 19-1. After their recent gold medal win at the Red Rock Open, they are considered a top contender. However, they face a challenging draw in North Carolina, finding themselves in the same half as the 2-seeded team of Tardio/Ben Johns, who are also aiming for back-to-back victories. This potential clash between two of the hottest teams in men’s doubles highlights the intense competition at the event. Daescu and Alshon will need to continue their strong performance to navigate this tough bracket and further solidify their claim as the top men’s doubles duo.
Facolos Adds Four International Aces to Bolster Global Pickleball Presence
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam – Facolos, a prominent global team in the world of pickleball, has announced the addition of four talented international players to its growing roster. The new signings include Mitch Hargreaves from Australia, a recent gold medalist in men’s singles at the PPA Melbourne Champion 2025; Jimmy Liong Kai Long from Malaysia, a gold medalist in men’s singles at the 4.5 WPC Bali tournament in 2024 and men’s doubles at the Skechers Malaysia Open 2025; and Vietnamese standouts Ly Minh Tan, a seasoned competitor with multiple gold medals in 50+ events; and Le Xuan Duc, a promising 17-year-old talent. This strategic expansion underscores Facolos’ commitment to elevating the sport on an international scale and supporting elite athletes in their professional journeys.