Baypoint Aces Win, MLP Promotion, Daiwa Japan Sponsorship

Good afternoon, pickleballers!

Slightly later than normal today, but well worth the wait.

There is so much pickleball news to update you with.

Listen to the Deep Dive below or crack on reading - the choice is yours!

Captain Nohemi Leads UK Pickleball Shop Squad with Unity and Enthusiasm in PPL Masters

London, UK – July 16, 2025 – Nohemi Reynoso is back for her second year as captain of the UK Pickleball Shop team in the Premier Pickleball League (PPL) Masters, a role she deeply values as a "huge honour". With an impressive 17 years of pickleball experience that began during her time living in the USA, Reynoso views her captaincy as far more than just selecting line-ups; it's about forging unity and energy within the team. Her approach is characterised by enthusiasm and support, actively motivating her players, fostering a positive atmosphere, and ensuring every team member, from seasoned competitors to those playing their first league match, feels confident and included.

Reynoso, who frequently travels to Texas to visit her daughter, underscores pickleball's continued significance in her life, noting its role as an excellent avenue for meeting new people when coming from a different country. Her 2024 UK Pickleball Shop Masters squad features Anthony Johnston, Elaine Brown, Stu Stimson, Rochelle Penrose, and Justin Meiland, all of whom she commends highly. The team's strength lies in its diverse blend of experienced players who have medaled at high-level events and newer competitors stepping into league play for the first time. This mix creates a fantastic balance, bolstered by strong team chemistry and mutual support both on and off the court. Reynoso’s involvement in the selection process prioritised building a team that genuinely "believes in each other" over mere individual ability.

Nohemi particularly enjoys the Masters league format, which integrates singles, doubles, and mixed-gender matches on the same day, offering varied opportunities for each player to contribute to team success. She eagerly anticipates the team's evolution throughout the competition, expecting "amazing moments" thanks to their collective "heart". She also praises the overall league atmosphere, describing it as "friendly and welcoming" with a strong "sense of community," despite everyone's desire to win. For fans and rivals alike, Reynoso's declaration is clear: the UK Pickleball Shop team is "ready" and committed to "giving it everything we’ve got," regardless of the match outcome.

Baypoint Aces Crowned Inaugural English Pickleball League Champions in Leeds

Leeds, UK – July 15, 2025 – The Baypoint Aces have etched their name in history, triumphing as the first-ever English Pickleball League champions. The Aces secured their gold medal victory at the John Charles Centre in Leeds on Saturday, July 12th, navigating through a competitive field of 16 club teams that had advanced from regional qualifications. The Southampton Sharks earned the silver medal, while Pickleball Central claimed the bronze.

The winning Baypoint Aces squad consisted of Doug Neve, Laura Yeomans, Heidi Pile, Kirsty Robertson, and Scott Tift. Scott Tift confessed that the win came as "a bit of a shock," acknowledging the formidable strength of opposing teams, some of which included players from the PPL Challenger series. He largely attributed their success to the Aces’ consistent pairings throughout the competition and their exceptional team spirit. Tift highlighted that while many teams boasted strong individual players, the Aces benefited immensely from "established pairings that play week in, week out together" and compete in major tournaments, fostering a truly "close-knit group" that proved decisive.

A crucial factor in their triumph was approaching the tournament without the burden of grand expectations, with a relaxed team vibe of "Let’s play our pickleball and see what happens". Despite rising nerves as the day progressed, particularly during the semi-final against AFPC Scorpions, where the stakes of playing for a "top four in the country" spot were palpable, everything "just clicked" in the final match. While preparations for the English Open are now underway, immediate celebrations for the new champions are on hold, with a well-deserved barbecue hosted by the club chair planned for the end of August. Tift expressed profound pride in the team’s achievement, declaring it a "brilliant day".

MLP Announces Historic Challenger Champion Promotion, One-Level Structure by 2027

New York, USA – July 15, 2025 – Major League Pickleball (MLP) presented by DoorDash has announced a significant shift in its league structure: the 2025 Challenger Level Champion will be promoted directly to the Premier Level starting in the 2026 season. This landmark change, approved by both the MLP Competition Committee and the UPA Board, is designed to bolster player progression and intensify competition within the league's professional ranks.

While earlier plans had indicated a transition to a single-level structure for all MLP teams by either 2026 or 2027, the league has adjusted its timeline to ensure a robust competitive landscape. The Challenger Level will remain in place for the 2026 season, providing ample time to flatten the talent curve and put forth the best possible product. Looking further ahead, MLP is now definitively committed to moving to a one-level structure for the 2027 season, a strategic move aimed at solidifying the league's competitive framework.

This important update precedes the highly anticipated MLP Finals, scheduled to be contested from Friday, August 22, through Sunday, August 24, at CityPickle at Wollman Rink in New York City, New York. The finals will undoubtedly serve as a thrilling culmination of the current season, showcasing the elite talent vying for the championship title. The league has confirmed that any additional details regarding the 2026 season and beyond will be promptly released once finalised, signalling MLP's ongoing efforts to adapt and grow the sport at its highest level.

Pittsburgh Picklefest Invites Amateurs to Compete for $175K Championship Glory

Pittsburgh, USA – July 15, 2025 – The World Pickleball Tour (WPT) is set to host the Pittsburgh Picklefest from July 25 to July 27, 2025, at The Pickleball Warehouse in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. This tournament extends an open invitation to amateur players of all ages and skill levels, promising a vibrant weekend filled with competitive play, enticing prizes, and a strong sense of community.

The event will unfold across 19 dedicated courts at The Pickleball Warehouse. Players can register for $80, with the deadline for sign-ups approaching on July 20, 2025, at 11:55 p.m. EST. The tournament caters exclusively to amateurs, featuring skill levels ranging from 3.0 to 5.0 and age groups from 19+ to 60+, with a potential 70+ category if registration numbers warrant it. The competition format will be a round-robin leading into bracket play, guaranteeing participants a minimum of six matches per event, with all games played to 11 points, win by two.

The daily schedule is clearly defined: Friday, July 25, will feature Men’s Singles and Women’s Doubles; Saturday, July 26, will host Men’s Doubles and Women’s Singles; and Sunday, July 27, is dedicated to Mixed Doubles. Participants will receive a WPT Dri-Fit T-shirt, access to free professional photography, and automatic DUPR score updates. Additionally, sponsored raffle prizes, including premium paddles and luxury gear bags, will be up for grabs.

Each WPT event serves as a "challenger" tournament, with medalists qualifying for the WPT Amateur Invitational Championships, which boasts a substantial $175,000 total cash prize. Gold medalists receive a 50% discount on their championship fee, silver medalists 30%, and bronze medalists 20%, though non-medalists can still join at full price. The event's core mission is to grow the game at the grassroots level, providing high-quality, valuable, and memorable competitive experiences for amateur players. Registration fees are $70, plus $30 per event.

Daiwa Securities Group Partners with Pickleball Japan Federation in Landmark Sponsorship Deal

Japan – July 14, 2025 – The Pickleball Japan Federation (PJF) is proud to announce that Daiwa Securities Group has signed an annual Slam sponsorship agreement, a pivotal partnership set to significantly bolster the growth of pickleball across Japan. This generous support from Daiwa Securities Group is expected to be instrumental in promoting the sport nationwide and ensuring the stability of tournament operations.

The PJF expressed immense gratitude for the warm support it has received from numerous companies and organisations to date. This new collaboration with Daiwa Securities Group marks a crucial step in the federation's mission to further enhance the competitive environment for pickleball players and deliver greater value to both participants and fans alike.

This sponsorship underscores the increasing recognition and investment in pickleball as a rapidly expanding sport globally. The PJF anticipates that the partnership will contribute to raising the profile of pickleball within Japan, attracting more players and spectators, and supporting the development of top-tier events. The federation remains committed to fostering a thriving pickleball community and providing platforms for athletes to excel. Further details on PJF sponsors can be found on their official website.

Elite Canadian Pickleball Teams Descend on Burnaby for CNPL Western Split Showdown

Burnaby, Canada – July 16, 2025 – The 2025 Canadian National Pickleball League (CNPL) Western Split is set to ignite Burnaby, British Columbia, on July 19 and 20. This highly anticipated event, the third of four in the CNPL III season, will feature Canada’s top teams battling for crucial playoff positions at IPOP: Inclusive Place of Pickleball. Marking the league’s inaugural regular season stop in British Columbia, the tournament promises a high-energy display of skill and strategy.

The competition, running from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM PDT on both days, will showcase 24 elite athletes from across the country. Each of the four Western Division teams—the Prairie Pronghorns, Detroit-Windsor Drive, Northern Lights Ontario Pickleball, and the host team, Vancouver Owls—will consist of six players, with at least five Canadian athletes per roster. Fans can expect intense rivalries and non-stop action as these formidable teams engage in round-robin play, vying for advantageous playoff seeding.

Spectators eager to witness this top-tier pickleball action must purchase a grounds pass. Tickets are available online for $5 per day in advance, or $10 per day at the door. Amateur players and CNPL pros participating in matches are exempt from needing a pass and can register upon arrival.

The CNPL continues to be a central force in the sport's growth in Canada, offering athletes a professional platform and helping to build a lasting legacy for pickleball. The Western Split aligns with this mission by engaging new fans and bringing high-level competition to new regions, further popularising the sport at all levels. Whether a seasoned enthusiast or new to the game, the 2025 CNPL Western Split promises a memorable weekend of athleticism and strategy for everyone.

Georghette Ochoa: Baja California Sur's Rising Pickleball Star Shines on National Stage

Los Barriles, Mexico – July 8, 2025 – Georghette Ochoa Rochín, a talented young athlete from Los Barriles, is making waves in the world of pickleball, not only as a standout in Baja California Sur but also by securing a remarkable fourth place in the national and Central American DUPR rankings. DUPR, the Digital Universal Pickleball Rating system, is globally recognised as the premier technological platform for classifying players in this dynamic sport, which combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong.

Georghette's journey into pickleball began at the tender age of seven, influenced by her family's passion for the sport. Her mother and an uncle, who is also a professional player, were instrumental in her initial engagement and continued involvement. "I started because of my mom. She invited us to play, although when I was little, I didn't like it at all," Georghette shared. "Over time, I grew fond of it and began to want to compete professionally. Most of my family plays pickleball, and the one who pushed me the most was an uncle who is now professional".

Despite her impressive competitive advancement, the young athlete faces significant challenges, particularly the lack of institutional support. This includes limited access to high-level training, insufficient infrastructure, and a general lack of visibility for pickleball within the region. "It has helped me improve, but sometimes it's difficult because in the off-season there aren't many professional players to train with," she explained. "In terms of support, it's complicated. Where I live, there are people who seek to help me and have tried to promote me, but much is still needed".

Nevertheless, Georghette Ochoa serves as a regional and national role model for the sport, inspiring more young people and children in Baja California Sur to take up pickleball as it continues its ascent. Her dedication and achievements are vital in consolidating the sport's presence and popularity in the region.

Pasig City to Host Asia's First Tournament-Level Pickleball Center, Set to Open 2027

Pasig City, Philippines – July 16, 2025 – Robinsons Land Corporation (RLC) is set to transform Pasig City into a premier sports destination with the development of the Helios Pickleball Center, Asia’s first tournament-level pickleball facility. Slated to open in 2027, this ambitious project marks the inaugural venture of RLC’s newly established Sports, Entertainment, and Recreation (SER) division.

The Helios Pickleball Center will be strategically located within the Bridgetowne Destination Estate, a joint undertaking with Kosmas Athletic Ventures Corporation. This impressive eight-story building is designed to house 25 professional pickleball courts, including a stadium-style court built to meet global standards. Mybelle V. Aragon-GoBio, RLC President and CEO, highlighted the project as an expansion into new spaces that complement Robinsons Land’s strengths, particularly their malls and growing Destination Estates. GoBio emphasised that the project reflects RLC's vision to support pickleball's rising popularity by creating accessible, world-class venues that promote active lifestyles and national pride.

Beyond its extensive court facilities, the 17,500-square-meter centre will feature a gym, a sports clinic, and various restaurants, along with convenient basement parking. Its world-class amenities are expected to attract both local and international events, with potential to become a venue for the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) Tour. The centre will also leverage a digital booking system called PodPlay, making court reservations accessible to everyone.

The groundbreaking ceremony is anticipated to draw key figures, including RLC Chairman Lance Y. Gokongwei and representatives from the Professional Pickleball Association and Major League Pickleball. This investment by Robinsons Land Corporation is a direct response to pickleball's explosive global growth, with player numbers in the United States alone surging from 8.9 million in 2022 to nearly 20 million in 2024. The sport is also actively working towards inclusion in the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games, further solidifying its international trajectory. The Helios Pickleball Center aims to bring this rapidly expanding sport closer to Filipinos, fostering health, wellness, and community.

Hong Kong Open 2025 Aims to Refine PPA Tour Asia Experience After Malaysia Setbacks

Hong Kong, China – July 16, 2025 – The PPA Tour Asia is preparing for its second stop, the Hong Kong Open 2025, scheduled from August 21 to 24, 2025, at the state-of-the-art Kai Tak Arena. Following a "mixed bag" experience at the Panas Malaysia Open 2025, organisers are under pressure to ensure this upcoming event builds on lessons learned to deliver a superior experience for players and fans.

The Hong Kong Open will feature both a Pro event and various age and rating categories for amateur players, all competing for pride, honour, points, and cash prizes. Kai Tak Arena, described as Hong Kong's "sporting cathedral," boasts cutting-edge facilities and world-class infrastructure, serving as an ideal stage for Asia's finest athletes to battle for glory and a testament to pickleball's continuing growth in the continent.

However, the PPA Tour Asia needs to address criticisms from the Malaysia Open, particularly by ensuring better, more seamless communication and prioritising player safety throughout the event. There's a clear call for the organisers to demonstrate that these tournaments are genuinely about growing the sport of pickleball and providing a top-notch avenue for Asian players to showcase their talent, rather than appearing as hastily organised events primarily aimed at financial gain.

Registration for the Hong Kong Open 2025 commenced on June 24 and will close on July 31, 2025, with a registration fee of USD $60. The event represents a critical opportunity for the PPA Tour Asia to solidify its reputation and foster a truly world-class competitive environment that champions the passion and skill of pickleball players across the region.

Hong Kong's Jack Wong Targets Historic Triple Crown at PPA Tour Asia Home Debut

Hong Kong, China – July 16, 2025 – Top Hong Kong pickleball player Jack Wong Hong-kit is gearing up for an ambitious bid at the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) Tour Asia’s Hong Kong Open, aiming to secure an unprecedented triple gold medal. The 26-year-old former tennis player is set to compete in men’s singles, men’s doubles, and mixed doubles when the tournament takes place from August 21 to 24, 2025, at Kai Tak Arena.

This event marks Wong’s home debut on the international pickleball stage. He will partner with Kim Eunggwon of South Korea in men’s doubles and team up with his younger sister, professional tennis player Cody Wong Hong-yi, in mixed doubles. Expressing his excitement, Jack Wong stated, "I am aiming for a gold medal in all three events," embracing the thrill of a major tournament in Hong Kong. He plans to participate in all PPA Tour Asia events this year, acknowledging the fierce competition from top international players, including those from the United States.

The Hong Kong Open is designated as an Open-tier event within the PPA Tour Asia, which began in Kuala Lumpur and will continue to Fukuoka and Ho Chi Minh City. The tour's top-tier event, the China Slam, is scheduled for October 1 to 5, 2025, with a potential relocation to Kuala Lumpur.

Jack Wong is determined to prove the strength of Asian players on the global stage, asserting, "I don’t want the top players to think they can easily win when facing Asian players like me – it’s about fighting for our names". Chinese athlete Long Yufei, women’s singles winner at the Malaysia Open, is also expected, further elevating the competition. The event promises a high-level tournament at one of Asia’s most advanced sports venues, marking a significant milestone for pickleball’s regional growth.

The Fish Bowl Unveils Pickle & Poké Tournament: A Day of Pickleball, Food, and Festivities in Malaysia

Petaling Jaya, Malaysia – July 16, 2025 – Malaysia’s lifestyle bazaar brand, The Fish Bowl, is set to host the inaugural Pickle & Poké Pickleball Tournament 2025 on August 23, 2025, at Dink Avenue @ Avenue 25, PJ. This unique, full-day event, running from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., promises an exciting blend of competitive pickleball, delectable food, and vibrant community spirit, all alongside The Fish Bowl’s curated lifestyle bazaar.

The tournament will feature categories for Men’s Doubles and Women’s Doubles, open to all players with a DUPR rating below 3.0. Participants will compete for a range of attractive prizes: champions in each category will receive RM1,000 cash, RM500 The Fish Bowl credit, premium Hundred Phantom 60 pickleball paddles (RM579 value), Li-Ning cash vouchers, GrabFood vouchers, and a trophy. Additionally, Women’s Doubles champions will exclusively receive April 22 Rose Energy Cream. Runner-ups and second runner-ups will also be awarded cash, credits, paddles, vouchers, and trophies.

Beyond the competitive play, every participant will receive a goodie bag valued at over RM200, a complimentary Mini Poké Bowl, free Kombucha from WonderBrew, and free entry to the Little Treats Bazaar. Registration for the Pickle & Poké Pickleball Tournament 2025 is now open until August 7, 2025, with a normal price of RM200 per person. An early bird discount of 15% is available, reducing the fee to RM170 per person, though slots are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.

In addition to the thrilling pickleball matches, attendees can explore the accompanying Pickle & Poke Bazaar, which will offer a diverse array of desserts, crafts, lifestyle finds, and more. This event highlights the growing intersection of sports and lifestyle in Malaysia, providing a holistic and engaging experience for both athletes and casual visitors.

Hyderabad Pickleball Championship Shatters Records, Propelling South India's Pickleball Boom

Hyderabad, India – July 16, 2025 – The Hyderabad Pickleball Championship 2025 (HPC 2025) has concluded with resounding success, breaking records and igniting a widespread pickleball fever across South India. Held at the CrossCourt Sports Club in Kokapet, the tournament attracted an impressive roster of over 220 players from five major South Indian cities, including Telangana, Bangalore, Chennai, Coimbatore, and Visakhapatnam. Hosted by the Hyderabad-based pickleball community, Pickl’Out, HPC 2025 marked a significant milestone as the region’s first PWR200 event, drawing over 100 enthusiastic spectators.

The championship showcased exceptional talent across six categories. Sameer and Nikhil triumphed in Men’s Doubles, while Rashein Samuel claimed the Men’s Singles title. In the Women’s Doubles, the winning pair was Rithika and Joshika, with Rithika also securing victory in Women’s Singles and partnering with Anish to win Mixed Doubles. The 35+ Men’s Doubles title went to Tshering and Avilay.

Aparna Rao, Co-founder and CEO of Pickl’Out, emphasised that the event was "more than just a tournament; it was a celebration of the growing community, the competitiveness of the sport, and the spirit players bring to court". The PWR200 status elevated the championship’s importance, granting national recognition and encouraging broader participation.

The diverse turnout from multiple cities underscored the sport’s rapid expansion and growing fanbase throughout South India. By connecting various pickleball communities and setting a higher standard for future competitions, HPC 2025 firmly establishes South India as a key player in India's burgeoning pickleball scene. With its robust organisation, extensive participation, and energetic crowd, the event signals a promising future for pickleball in the region, anticipating even greater momentum in upcoming tournaments.

Gaspar Becomes Pickleball Capital as Liga Supremo's 6th Stage Attracts Elite Talent and Wellness Festival

Gaspar, Brazil – July 16, 2025 – Gaspar, Santa Catarina, is set to become the epicentre of Brazilian pickleball as it hosts the 6th stage of the Liga Supremo, Latin America's premier professional circuit, from July 18 to 20. More than 250 athletes, including top players from across the continent, are expected to converge at the newly renovated Arena Gaspar, which now stands as Brazil’s most modern pickleball arena. Admission to the event is free, inviting a wide audience to experience the sport's excitement.

Beyond the intense competition, the event will feature a wellness festival offering various attractions focused on well-being, including a yoga space, clinics for pickleball, padel, and beach tennis, and recovery services. This holistic approach aims to provide the best possible conditions for players and the public alike.

Pickleball, a hybrid sport combining elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, has seen a global surge in popularity, boasting over 100 million practitioners worldwide, with 40% in the United States alone. In Brazil, the sport currently has around 30,000 athletes, with optimistic estimates projecting a rise to 1 million players in the coming years. Its success lies in its democratic and inclusive nature, accommodating men and women of all ages due to its smaller court size, slower ball speed, and lighter plastic ball. Matches are played to 15 points in sets, featuring both singles and doubles play.

The Liga Supremo event in Gaspar will distribute R$ 30,000 in prize money to athletes. The professional disputes will gather 64 players, including international standouts like Venezuela’s Muya Bresh, and leading Brazilian names such as Eliza Ramos and Marcela Donatoni. Liga Supremo's core pillar is athlete valorisation, allocating approximately 40% of its revenues to competitors, accelerating the professionalisation of pickleball in Brazil. The league projects distributing over R$ 2 million in prizes across its 12 stages in 2025. Marcela Donatoni noted the sport's "boom" post-Covid-19 pandemic, while Liga Supremo CEO Paulo Cantoli highlighted pickleball's quick learning curve and low-impact nature, making it ideal for all ages.

Pickleball Japan Federation Releases PJL Burger King® CUP Team and Draft Results

Japan – July 14, 2025 – The Pickleball Japan Federation (PJF) has released crucial updates regarding the PJL Burger King® CUP, providing enthusiasts with the latest information on participating teams and draft player results. As of July 4, the official list of participating teams in the PJL Burger King® CUP has been made public.

Simultaneously, the Draft Player Results Table for the PJL Burger King® CUP has also been confirmed and shared.

These announcements offer a transparent look into the competitive landscape of the PJL Burger King® CUP, allowing fans and players to track their favourite teams and newly drafted talent. The timely release of this information highlights the PJF's commitment to keeping the pickleball community informed about the progress and structure of its professional events.

The PJF continues to play a vital role in the growth and promotion of pickleball throughout Japan, organising and facilitating tournaments that bring together the country's top players. The publication of these lists is a key step in building excitement and engagement for the ongoing or upcoming PJL Burger King® CUP, underscoring the dynamic development of pickleball in the region.

Paddletek and Anna Leigh Waters Challenge Pickleball Stereotypes in Powerful "Not a Real Sport" Campaign

USA – July 16, 2025 – Paddletek, a leading global paddle brand, has launched a bold new campaign titled "Not a Real Sport," directly confronting persistent stereotypes about pickleball. The campaign features Anna Leigh Waters, widely considered one of the sport’s best and most popular players, showcasing her athleticism and intensity to counter common criticisms.

Despite pickleball's status as the world's fastest-growing sport, it frequently faces detractors who dismiss it as a mere "activity" rather than a legitimate sport. Charles Barkley, the basketball legend, infamously commented, "The problem with pickleball is I don’t like playing with old people. When I go to the gym, I don’t want to play with no 80-year-olds". Paddletek’s campaign directly addresses such jabs, using audio clips of familiar stereotypes—"not a real sport," "not a real athlete," "not a real challenge," "isn’t real work, real talent, real skill"—as Waters demonstrates her formidable skills.

Curtis Smith, President at Paddletek, emphasised that the campaign is a "tribute to the hours of training, fierce gameplay and relentless determination to win," standing in stark contrast to pickleball's critics. He noted that despite the comments, people of all ages and skill sets are passionate about the sport, making it the fastest-growing in America.

The campaign also serves to uplift Paddletek, founded in 2010, as both a forerunner in the market and a staunch supporter of the sport, especially as more brands like Adidas enter the rapidly expanding industry. Trevor Williams, Principal and Executive Creative Director at Young & Laramore, the agency behind the campaign, stated, "At the highest levels, this sport demands intense physicality and hard work." He added, "We want to champion them: the diehards, the ones who truly love the game," reinforcing Paddletek’s connection to the fast, physical style of play captivating players and fans. Waters, with her undeniable representation of pickleball's best qualities, was deemed the perfect choice to front this powerful message.

Spain's Pickleball Pre-Selection Gathers in Madrid, Forging Future National Talent

Madrid, Spain – July 1, 2025 – Madrid recently played host to the first training camp for the Spanish pickleball pre-selection team, bringing together nearly 50 players from various autonomous communities at the Club La Fuente Pickleball Hub. This crucial gathering marks a significant step in the development of elite pickleball talent across Spain, as the sport continues its rapid ascent in popularity.

Esteban Martínez, the national coach, underscored the immense importance of these sessions for the growth of pickleball in the country. "We have exceptional talent in our country, and these sessions allow us to evaluate and enhance the capabilities of our players," Martínez stated, expressing his conviction that "the future of Spanish pickleball is promising".

During this initial concentration, Coach Martínez implemented a series of rigorous tests and exercises specifically designed to assess each player's technical and tactical abilities. Participants received personalised feedback and recommendations aimed at fostering both individual and collective team growth. The broad participation from diverse regions across Spain highlights the escalating interest in pickleball nationwide, as well as the unwavering commitment of the Real Federación Española de Tenis (RFET) to promoting and developing this burgeoning sport.

Looking ahead, the second training camp for the Spanish pickleball pre-selection team is scheduled for Thursday, July 17, at the Club Vila Pickleball in Sabadell, Barcelona, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.. These strategic gatherings are pivotal in identifying and nurturing the talent that will represent Spain on the international pickleball stage in the years to come.

Yeppoon's Retro Classic 40+ Pickleball Tournament Kicks Off Festival of Fun and Fierce Competition

Yeppoon, Australia – July 15, 2025 – The Yeppoon Retro Classic 40+ Pickleball tournament is set to be a highlight of the 10-day Yeppoon Pickleball Festival, taking place from July 25 to 27, 2025, at the Yeppoon Tennis Club in Cooee Bay, Queensland. This spirited event welcomes players aged 40 and over of all skill levels, promising a unique blend of competitive play and retro-themed fun.

Part of the larger Yeppoon Pickleball Festival running from July 18 to 27, the Retro Classic encourages participants to embrace the nostalgic spirit by donning throwback outfits while engaging in a relaxed yet competitive environment. The tournament holds the distinction of being sanctioned by the Pickleball Australia Association as a regional-level event, affirming its quality and competitive standards. Players have the opportunity to participate in up to three events—one singles, one doubles, and one mixed doubles match—with an entry cost of AUD 65.00. The registration deadline for this exciting tournament was July 15, 2025.

Beyond the main tournament, the festival features several special activities requiring separate booking, including the Pineapple Alley Rally Competition on July 24, the Teams Mash-Up on July 26, and a Catered Dinner and Retro Night at the Tennis Clubhouse also on July 26. Matches will follow a round-robin format transitioning into playoffs, with age divisions spanning 40+, 50+, 60+, and 70+ across all categories. The competition will be held on 14 outdoor hardcourt pickleball courts.

The Yeppoon Retro Classic 40+ is designed to promote fitness, foster community bonds, and cultivate a deep love for the sport among older adults. With its dynamic mix of serious matches and engaging social events, the tournament aims to create lasting memories for all involved. The top three finishers in each category will be celebrated at the end of the year, further boosting motivation and the competitive spirit within the pickleball community.

Elite Pickleball Pros Lead CNPL Coaching Clinic in Burnaby Ahead of Western Split

Burnaby, Canada – July 16, 2025 – Aspiring pickleball players in British Columbia are set for an unparalleled learning opportunity as the Canadian National Pickleball League (CNPL) hosts a two-hour coaching clinic led by some of North America’s top professionals on July 18, 2025. Held at the Inclusive Place of Pickleball in Burnaby, the session is meticulously crafted to help players sharpen essential skills through expert instruction.

The CNPL Coaching Clinic boasts an impressive lineup of instructors, including seasoned pros such as Armaan Jiwa-Mawji, Christina Chin, Wes Gabrielsen, and other prominent players from the Canadian National Pickleball League. To cater to diverse skill levels, the clinic will be divided into two distinct sessions: one from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. for players rated below 3.5, and another from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. for those rated 3.5 and above.

Each session will follow a "jamboree" format, providing hands-on experience in four crucial pickleball areas: mastering drop and drive shots, navigating the transition zone effectively, applying non-volley zone strategy, and developing fast hands. This structured yet interactive setting is ideal for intermediate and advanced players seeking to refine their tactics and timing. With each session capped at just 20 players, participants are guaranteed focused coaching and ample personalised feedback, optimising their learning experience.

The clinic, costing $75 CAD per person, requires advance registration via Showpass. Its timing is particularly strategic, taking place just one day before the 2025 CNPL Western Split begins. This provides amateur players with a unique chance to train directly with the professionals who will be competing in Canada’s premier pickleball league. The involvement of such high-calibre coaches lends significant credibility and excitement to the event, poised to help cultivate the next generation of elite Canadian pickleball players.

USA Pickleball and European Federation Forge Historic Partnership to Standardise Global Officiating

International Pickleball Community – July 16, 2025 – USA Pickleball (USAP), the sport's National Governing Body in the United States, and the European Pickleball Federation (EPF), its continental counterpart, have announced a groundbreaking strategic partnership aimed at standardising pickleball officiating practices and referee development across both continents. This collaborative agreement marks a significant milestone in achieving a unified, international officiating standard for pickleball.

The partnership establishes a shared set of best practices for training, certifying, and credentialing referees, reflecting a joint commitment to creating a single recognised referee standard for the sport globally. This critical alignment is poised to pave the way for expanded international play and bolster pickleball’s bid for future Olympic inclusion. Justin Maloof, Chief Competition Officer at USA Pickleball, emphasised that this collaboration is a "significant step toward building a unified, international officiating standard that brings the sport closer to global recognition and Olympic qualification".

Under the terms of the new agreement, EPF will exclusively align with USA Pickleball’s Officiating policies and best practices, ensuring a common pickleball referee standard in Europe and the USA. Conversely, USAP will exclusively align with EPF as the sole organisation authorised to issue referee credentials in Europe. Furthermore, USAP will support EPF with translations of all necessary referee and officiating documents. Both certifying bodies have also agreed upon standard and reciprocal referee credential levels and testing requirements, and will collaborate on materials, resources, and website coordination.

Maria Munz, Leader of Officiating in EPF, highlighted USAP as the "gold standard" in officiating, stating EPF’s aim to align European referee training with its quality and professionalism. She noted that EPF referees will be credentialed to match USAP levels, enabling officials from both organisations to officiate interchangeably across the U.S. and Europe. This affiliation underscores the sport’s accelerating international growth and reinforces both organisations' dedication to strengthening the global officiating infrastructure, ensuring consistent rules, qualifications, and player experience worldwide.