Brisbane Pickleball Cup & MLP Dallas Deliver Epic Finals and more

Brisbane Pickleball Cup Concludes with Thrilling Finals in Redcliffe

July 27, 2025 - Redcliffe, Australia – The PPA Tour Australia: Brisbane Pickleball Cup culminated in a series of captivating finals on July 27, showcasing top talent and fierce competition across various divisions. Held in Redcliffe, Queensland, the event drew significant attention, highlighting the growing prowess of Australian and international pickleball players.

In Pro Women’s Singles, Andie Dikosavljevic claimed the gold medal, defeating Sahra Dennehy in a three-game thriller with scores of 11-7, 9-11, 11-7. Roos Van Reek secured the bronze, overcoming Danni-elle Townsend 11-6, 11-5.

The Pro Men’s Singles saw Hong Kit Wong dominate, clinching the title by beating Mitchell Hargreaves 11-6, 11-7. Louis Laville earned the bronze medal with a comeback win against Zachary Grabovic.

In Pro Women’s Doubles, the formidable duo of Danni-elle Townsend and Somer Dalla-Bona stunned rivals to win gold, defeating Roos Van Reek and Kaitlynn Hart 11-5, 11-5. Sarah Burr and Andie Dikosavljevic secured the bronze.

The Pro Men’s Doubles title was captured by George Wall and Joseph Wild, who showcased exceptional coordination to defeat Hong Kit Wong and Eunggwon Kim 11-7, 11-5. Louis Laville and Jose Farias took home the bronze.

Finally, in Pro Mixed Doubles, Roos Van Reek and George Wall proved to be an unstoppable force, winning the gold medal by besting Hsiang Wen Huang and Zachary Grabovic 11-6, 11-4. Somer Dalla-Bona and Mitchell Hargreaves earned the bronze medal.

Wisconsin PPA Challenger Delivers Epic Battles and New Champions

July 27 - Lake Hallie, USA – The Wisconsin PPA Challenger concluded on July 27, 2025, with several exciting finals, demonstrating the rising talent and intense competition within professional pickleball. Players gathered at the Lake Hallie courts in Wisconsin for a weekend of high-stakes matches.

In Pro Men’s Singles, Connor Mogle delivered a dominant performance, securing the gold medal by defeating Maximilian Wild 11-4, 11-4. Tristan Dussault clinched the bronze medal with a strong comeback win over Cheng En Tsai.

Lauren Hidalgo-Smith staged a dramatic comeback in the Pro Women’s Singles final, overcoming Sydney Sonday 8-11, 11-3, 11-6 to claim the championship. Polina Libo earned the bronze after a tight 15-13 victory against Caitlin Klaassen.

The Men’s Doubles Pro Main Draw saw Juan Benitez and Mohaned Alhouni emerge as champions, defeating Naveen Beasley and Jose Martinez 11-5, 11-5. Mouaad Alhouni and Sam Weinbach secured the bronze with a comeback win.

In Women’s Doubles Pro Main Draw, Chloe Igleski and Arielle Butler showcased unstoppable teamwork, winning gold by beating Zoey Weil and Zoeya Khan 11-6, 11-6. Polina Libo and Caitlin Klaassen secured the bronze.

The Mixed Doubles Pro Main Draw featured a stunning comeback by Zoey Weil and Adam Harvey, who took the gold medal by defeating Sydney Sonday and Sammy Lee 4-11, 11-5, 11-6. Monika Wynne and Connor Mogle earned bronze after a hard-fought match.

Major League Pickleball Dallas Wraps Up with Thrilling DreamBreaker Showdowns

July 27, 2025 - Dallas, USA – The Advil Targeted Relief MLP Dallas event concluded on July 27, marked by intense DreamBreaker victories and significant team performances.

On July 26, the New Jersey 5s outlasted the Los Angeles Mad Drops in an epic 22-20 DreamBreaker triumph. Despite an injured Hunter Johnson in their previous encounter, the Mad Drops, reinforced by new acquisition Ben Johns, couldn't overcome the 5s. The New Jersey 5s secured their victory with Anna Leigh Waters outscoring Catherine Parenteau 9-1 and winning two consecutive points to seal the match. Waters, hailed for her "Herculean effort," attributed the win to team fight and collaboration. This crucial win inches the 5s closer to securing a No. 3 seed for the postseason.

Following this, the Los Angeles Mad Drops rebounded with their own DreamBreaker victory over the Dallas Flash, closing out their regular season with a 21-18 win. Ben Johns played a pivotal role for the Mad Drops, securing wins in men's doubles with Hunter Johnson and mixed doubles with Catherine Parenteau. Despite a 6-0 lead by Dallas in the DreamBreaker, Los Angeles, featuring three top-ten ranked singles players in Johnson, Johns, and Parenteau, rallied for the win. Johns expressed satisfaction with his and his teammates' performances, emphasising their fight and determination. While this result did not significantly change playoff positioning for the Mad Drops, it was a vital win for momentum.

Young Talent Lauren Gosling Shines as R3 Sport Kicks Off PPL Season 3 with Undefeated Streak

July 25, 2025 - UK – The Premier Pickleball League (PPL) Season 3 kicked off with a "flyer" start, largely due to the remarkable performance of the league's youngest player, Lauren Gosling. On July 25, 2025, Gosling was named MVP for Matchweek One, achieving an undefeated record across singles, doubles, and mixed matches.

R3 team manager Karen Crawford expressed immense pride, noting that Gosling, despite being the youngest in the league, won all five of her matches. The official PPL Instagram account lauded her as "a real talent... one to watch for the season!".

R3 Sport, captained by Josh Bright, boasts a young but "brimful" team of talent, including Lauren Gosling, Natasha-Lara Hood, Daniel Wren, Sabrina Edwards-Pereira, and Ewan Skillicorn. Crawford highlighted the team's shared passion, mutual respect, and natural competitiveness and support for each other as key factors in their wins. She described herself as a deeply involved spectator, feeling every moment as if she were on the court. The team's strong off-court bond significantly boosted their already great game.

With a two-month break before the next round of fixtures, Crawford plans to organise team practices to maintain their momentum. She remains confident, stating the team will bring the same excitement and passion to the next fixture.

Australian Masters Cup State Qualifiers Set Stage for National Finals

July 25, 2025 - Australia – The inaugural Australian Masters Cup (AMC) is fast approaching, with State Qualifiers taking place across Australia on August 9 to determine who will compete in the National Finals. On July 25, 2025, Pickleball Australia announced that 174 players had already qualified for these state-level events from nine regional qualifiers.

The upcoming AMC State Qualifiers will be held at four key locations:

• Oxford Falls Grammar, Sydney (NSW)
• Geelong PCYC, Melbourne (VIC)
• Focus Pickleball, Redcliffe, Brisbane (QLD)
• Clarence Indoor Sports, Hobart (TAS)

Players who competed in club events in the ACT, South Australia, Western Australia, and the Northern Territory have been fast-tracked and directly invited to the National Finals. The National Finals are scheduled for September 27 and 28, 2025, at the Pimpama Sports Hub on the Gold Coast, coinciding with the eve of the Australian Pickleball Championships. This series of events marks a significant step in the competitive pickleball landscape in Australia, promising high-stakes showdowns as players vie for state and national glory.

Asia Pickleball Junior Open Showcases Explosive Growth and Youth Talent in Vietnam

July 28, 2025 - Quang Nam Province, Vietnam – The Asia Pickleball Junior Open 2025, held in Quang Nam Province, Vietnam, concluded as a monumental success, signalling unprecedented growth in youth pickleball across Asia. The tournament welcomed 246 junior athletes, a substantial increase from just 80 participants in 2024, reflecting the sport's burgeoning popularity among young players and successful development efforts in the region.

Over three dynamic days, the event hosted 874 matches across 16 categories, transforming the courts into a vibrant display of talent, sportsmanship, and international camaraderie. Players from ten countries participated, including China, Hong Kong, Japan, India, Malaysia, Thailand, Philippines, Korea, Chinese Taipei, and host nation Vietnam. Teams from Vietnam and Japan emerged as dominant forces, securing multiple medals through their exceptional technique and discipline.

The success of the Junior Open was significantly bolstered by the strong support from families and local associations, with parents travelling to cheer on their children and national associations providing coaches and mentors. The tournament also saw appearances from several PPA stars, fresh from the PPA Asia Malaysia Open, adding inspiration to the event.

Looking ahead to 2026, the Asia Federation of Pickleball (AFP) is committed to further nurturing young talent through key initiatives. These include identifying and empowering junior coaches, launching AFP-endorsed junior camps and training series, and introducing the AFP Junior Ranking System to track competitive performance at national and international levels.

Inaugural Asia Pickleball University Championship Crowns India and Chinese Taipei

July 28, 2025 - Da Nang, Vietnam – The Asia Federation of Pickleball (AFP) marked a historic milestone for collegiate and alumni pickleball by successfully staging the inaugural Asia Pickleball University Championship 2025 in Da Nang, Vietnam. Over four exhilarating days, players from eight countries showcased a vibrant blend of youth, experience, and cross-border camaraderie.

The championship's highlight was the intensely contested University Team Challenge, where national pride was on full display. India emerged as the Team Champions, demonstrating outstanding skill and teamwork, while Chinese Taipei secured the Runners-Up position with a strong performance. Both teams were awarded the prestigious Golden Ticket, earning them the right to represent Asia at the upcoming Collegiate World Championships in Dallas, USA, from October 31 to November 2, 2025. This represents a significant opportunity for these student-athletes to gain pro-level experience and international exposure.

Beyond the competition, the championship fostered a spirit of camaraderie, with players expressing excitement about staying connected and planning joint training sessions. In addition to the tournament, the AFP successfully conducted a Referee & Game Marshall Workshop, with 52 passionate participants now on the path to becoming certified AFP Referees. The AFP continues its commitment to growing the sport and empowering the next generation of champions through such initiatives and future tournaments.

Vietnam Gears Up to Host Largest Pickleball Event Yet: The MB Vietnam Open

July 22, 2025 - Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam – Anticipation is mounting as Vietnam prepares to host its largest pickleball event to date, the MB Vietnam Open, from September 4-7, 2025. The PPA Tour Asia officially unveiled MB as the presenting partner for the tournament, which will take place at Global City Sports Park in Ho Chi Minh City.

This event marks a major milestone for Vietnam's sporting calendar and signifies the continued momentum of the PPA's expansion across Asia. All eyes will be on Trinh Giang, Vietnam's "golden boy" and the first champion of the PPA Tour Asia Panas Malaysia Open, as he returns to play on home soil. Giang expressed immense honour in representing Vietnam before his home fans, alongside UPA Asia Trailblazers standouts Ken Tam and Sophia Tran.

MB's Chief Marketing Officer, Ms. Nguyen Thi Viet Nga, emphasised that their support extends beyond sponsorship, aiming to foster happiness through shared moments of joy and connection, aligning with MB Priority's vision of "Happiness in every moment". Kimberly Koh, Managing Director of UPA Asia, stated that the MB Vietnam Open is a defining moment, accelerating the sport's evolution and creating pathways for local talent.

Local organisers, New Sports JSC, view this event as transformative, bringing Vietnamese pickleball onto the international stage and aiming to develop a comprehensive pickleball ecosystem from grassroots to professional levels. The tournament will also feature pro player clinics, skill challenges, and meet-and-greet opportunities in the interactive Fan Zone, transforming spectators into participants. The MB Vietnam Open will cap off three consecutive weeks of elite pickleball action in Asia, following the Hong Kong Open (Aug 21-24) and the Sansan Fukuoka Open (Aug 26-31). Registration for the MB Vietnam Open opens on July 29.

Trinh Linh Giang and Yufei Long Lead Historic First PPA Tour Asia Rankings

July 25, 2025 - Asia – The Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) Tour Asia has unveiled its inaugural rankings on July 25, 2025, marking a significant step for competitive pickleball in the region. Vietnam's Trinh Linh Giang and China's Yufei Long have secured the top spots in the men's and women's singles categories, respectively, following their gold medal victories at the Panas Malaysia Open 2025. Both champions earned 1,000 points for their wins.

Trinh Linh Giang now holds the number one position in men's singles after a tense final against India's Vanshik Kapadia, who ranks second with 800 points. Hong Kong's Jack Wong Hong-kit is third (600 points), and Malaysia's Jimmy Liong is fourth (400 points).

In women's singles, Yufei Long climbed to the top after a hard-fought win against Australia's Nicola Schoeman, who is now second with 800 points. Tang Nok Yiu of Hong Kong is third (600 points), and Huang Hsiang Wen of Chinese Taipei is fourth (400 points).

The men's doubles rankings are led by India's Harsh Mehta and Vanshik Kapadia, who also earned 1,000 points from their gold medal win. Australia's George Wall and Zachary Grabovic are tied for third with 800 points. In women's doubles, Wei Ting Chieh of Chinese Taipei and Xiao Yi Wang-Beckvall of the United States lead with 1,000 points.

These initial rankings provide a clear competitive landscape for players as the PPA Tour Asia continues to expand its events, with more intense matches and rising stars anticipated throughout the season.

Life Time Announces Inaugural LT Open: A Premier Singles Pickleball Tournament

July 22, 2025 - Atlanta, USA – Life Time announced its first-ever singles pickleball tournament, the LT Open, set to take place from October 11-19, 2025, at Life Time Peachtree Corners in Atlanta. This new event is dedicated to elevating singles play within the sport and promises a high-stakes competition.

The LT Open will feature both men's and women's elite players competing in separate qualifier brackets, starting October 11, with 16 athletes from each gender advancing to the championship bracket. The stakes are high, as the male and female champions will each claim a substantial $50,000 grand prize.

Pickleball enthusiasts will be able to watch the finals live on ESPN2 on Sunday, October 19, from 3 to 5 p.m. ET. Connor Pardoe, CEO of the United Pickleball Association (UPA), praised Life Time as an influential partner in growing the sport and expressed excitement for the LT Open to become a "pillar of the pickleball calendar". UPA players will have the opportunity to compete, challenging themselves against some of the world's best pickleball athletes. Life Time members will also enjoy complimentary grounds access to watch the event.

Life Time is a major force in pickleball infrastructure, owning and operating over 800 dedicated courts across North America. More information and registration details are available on the LT Open website.

Cricket Legends Back "Pickle Pros" to Spearhead India's Pickleball Revolution

July 27, 2025 - India – A new initiative dubbed "Pickle Pros" has been launched by LegaXy and M3M Foundation, aiming to ignite a nationwide pickleball revolution across India. Unveiled on July 27, 2025, the project has garnered significant support from celebrated Indian cricket stars Ishant Sharma, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, and Umesh Yadav.

The core mission of Pickle Pros is to popularise pickleball by establishing top-class facilities in cities, towns, and villages throughout India over the next three years. The goal is to make pickleball more accessible and visible, transforming it into a mass sport appealing to all age groups. The program will include comprehensive training camps, local events, and tournaments designed to support both beginners and skilled players, fostering a fun, active, and inclusive sports culture.

Payal Kanodia, Chairperson and Trustee of M3M Foundation, emphasised the initiative's social mission, highlighting its potential to improve health and connect communities through sports. Amitesh Shah, Founder and CEO of LegaXy, underscored the vision of making India "a force in the global pickleball arena" while inspiring broad participation. The involvement of these prominent cricketers is expected to significantly boost awareness and participation, leveraging their fame to attract a new wave of players. This ambitious plan aims to solidify pickleball as one of India's next major sports.

DUPR Crowns Vulcan V-PRO FLIGHT as Official Pickleball

July 25, 2025 - Global – In a move set to standardise equipment across competitive pickleball, DUPR (Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating) announced on July 25, 2025, that the Vulcan V-PRO FLIGHT is now its official ball. This partnership spans all DUPR verticals and events, including high school and collegiate pickleball, Minor League Pickleball (MiLP), and over 8,000 DUPR clubs and facilities worldwide.

Vulcan Pickleball, the creator of the V-PRO FLIGHT, is recognised as a premier equipment brand in the sport. DUPR CEO Tito Machado stated that this alignment reinforces DUPR's commitment to consistency, quality, and the highest level of competitive integrity. Machado emphasised, "DUPR is built on accuracy and trust. We only align with partners who meet that standard," adding that Vulcan has proven to be "the best ball in the game".

The Vulcan V-PRO FLIGHT technology is celebrated for its elite performance, durability, and accuracy. It already serves as the official ball of Major League Pickleball (MLP), and this new partnership further solidifies Vulcan's position as a leader in pickleball ball technology. Jeremy Nef, President of Vulcan Pickleball, expressed pride in becoming the official ball of DUPR, recognising DUPR as "the backbone of competitive pickleball" and affirming Vulcan's commitment to supporting players at every level. The collaboration between DUPR and Vulcan is poised to significantly shape the future of competitive pickleball.

World Pickleball Players Association Forms to Advocate for Pros

July 25, 2025 - Global – A significant new entity has emerged in the professional pickleball landscape with the formation of the World Pickleball Players Association (WPPA), uniting pro players under a single, unified umbrella. Announced on July 28, 2025, this marks a pivotal step for player representation in the rapidly growing sport.

Pickleball luminary Collin Johns, brother of Ben Johns, is a key board member of the WPPA. Johns clarified that the association seeks a collaborative relationship with the United Pickleball Association (UPA), the parent organisation of the PPA Tour and Major League Pickleball, rather than adopting a combative stance. He stressed the need for "minimum standards" to ensure all players, from No. 1 to 100th-ranked, are treated equally.

The seven-member board of directors includes Tina Pisnik as President, Dekel Bar as Treasurer, Jessie Irvine as Secretary, and board members Augie Ge, Jay Devilliers, and Gabriel Tardio. Their top priorities include players’ health and safety, transparency in compensation, the UPA’s ranking system, scheduling, and player discipline. Johns affirmed that the association's demands would be "reasonable" as long as the UPA addresses these player concerns.

The WPPA is backed by Sports Solidarity, a group founded by former baseball player Harry Marino, who previously aided in unionising minor league baseball players. The association aims to be an independent voice for players, similar to the Professional Tennis Players Association (PTPA), which has already expressed strong support for the WPPA's formation. The PTPA emphasised the vital importance of athletes having a unified voice free from league control.

Zane Navratil Elected President of UPA Pro Player Committee, Vows Collaborative Advocacy

July 27, 2025 - Global – In a landmark development for professional pickleball, Zane Navratil has been elected President of the United Pickleball Association’s (UPA) Pro Player Committee. Announced on July 27, 2025, this role marks the most significant effort yet towards unified player representation within the sport's burgeoning structure, encompassing both the PPA Tour and Major League Pickleball.

Navratil, a decorated pro and respected voice among his peers, stated his commitment to serving the player community with integrity and balance, despite not actively seeking the position. He emphasised that the committee aims for a "collaborative, solutions-oriented voice" that works with the UPA, rather than against it. Navratil's agenda focuses on "smart, actionable improvements that elevate the player experience without disrupting operational sustainability".

The UPA Pro Player Committee is designed to provide a direct and organised player voice on critical issues such as players’ health and safety, transparency in compensation, the UPA’s ranking system, scheduling, and player discipline. Navratil, a team captain for the MLP’s New Jersey 5s and co-host of "PicklePod," brings a unique blend of on-court success, business acumen, and media fluency to the role. His professional background in accounting is also expected to lend credibility in discussions with league executives.

The election saw participation from 167 UPA players, indicating a strong desire for formal representation. Navratil acknowledged this trust, stating, "I won’t take it lightly. Let’s get to work". His leadership is anticipated to provide professional pickleball players with a long-needed unified and respected voice at the decision-making table.

Japan's Yuta Funemizu Seeks Crowdfunding to Accelerate Pickleball Career

July 28, 2025 - Japan – Japan's soft tennis legend Yuta Funemizu, who made history as the first Japanese player imported to the PPA Tour and Major League Pickleball, is growing impatient with the slow pace of his pickleball career in the US circuit. On July 28, 2025, it was reported that the 31-year-old has taken matters into his own hands by launching a crowdfunding project to cover his tour expenses, aiming to play as much as possible.

Funemizu has openly shared his frustration on his YouTube channel about frequently sitting out matches for the Miami Pickleball Club, the team that drafted him in March. He expressed hope that donors would "enjoy, with me, this journey I am making to the world’s top place".

A former world champion in soft tennis, Funemizu was a top player for Nippon Telegraph and Telephone West Corp.. Despite his success in soft tennis, he lamented the lack of public recognition. He was introduced to pickleball by BizReach Inc. founder Soichiro Minami and quickly became enamoured with the sport, deciding it was "worthwhile to stake [his] life on going after it".

Funemizu has committed to mastering pickleball skills at an accelerated pace, vowing to "compete in more matches than anybody else". Recognising the financial demands of competing at the highest level, he is seeking financial assistance, believing his journey is worth supporting. His dedication highlights the personal sacrifices players make to break into and succeed in the burgeoning world of professional pickleball.

PCYC Queensland and Pickleball Australia Partner to Expand Sport Statewide

July 25, 2025 - Queensland, Australia – In a significant boost for pickleball's accessibility and growth, PCYC Queensland and Pickleball Australia announced a new strategic partnership on July 25, 2025. This collaboration aims to expand access to pickleball across Queensland through PCYC's extensive network of clubs, centres, and community programs.

The partnership will see 23 PCYC clubs across Queensland affiliated with Pickleball Queensland. This formalises a shared commitment to providing safe, inclusive, and high-quality participation opportunities for people of all ages. A key component of the initiative involves PCYC staff undertaking pickleball coaching accreditation through Pickleball Australia’s national coaching framework. This investment ensures that programs delivered through PCYC Queensland will be supported by qualified coaches, capable of engaging participants in fun, skill-appropriate, and progressive pickleball programs.

Brendan Lee, CEO of Pickleball Australia, welcomed the partnership, emphasising the positive impact PCYC Queensland has on local communities and expressing delight that the collaboration will grow pickleball while ensuring quality and safety. PCYC Queensland CEO Phil Schultz highlighted pickleball's inclusive nature, welcoming players of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities. He added that the partnership reflects a shared commitment to building healthier communities and looks forward to seeing pickleball introduced to more PCYCs through youth programs and as an additional offering for members. The collaboration will foster lifelong participation in sport, promote social connection, and increase physical activity across Queensland communities.

New Pathway Launched to Minor League Pickleball Nationals for State and Junior Talent

July 24, 2025 - Global – A major step towards building a true nationwide pipeline for competitive team pickleball was announced on July 24, 2025, as The Dink Minor League Pickleball (MiLP) officially partnered with State Pro Leagues and The National Junior Pickleball Tour. This collaboration creates a clear path for talented amateur and junior players to reach the MiLP National Championship in Dallas this December.

Under the new initiative, top performers from each sanctioned State Pro League will automatically qualify for the DUPR 22 division at The Dink MiLP National Championship, competing against elite teams from across the country. Leagues also have the option to enter teams into the DUPR 20 division, providing additional opportunities for rising talent. All matches in these leagues will be tracked through DUPR’s official rating system, ensuring that every point contributes to player development and national visibility.

Participating State Pro Leagues include:

• The All Florida Pro League (AFPL), featuring teams like the Miami Blaze and Sarasota Manatees in a 7-week tour.
• The Wichita Premier Pickleball League (WPPL), focused on player development and community engagement.
• The Oklahoma Premier Pickleball League (OPPL), returning for its second season with six teams and streamed matches.
• The Michigan Pickleball League, boasting five energetic teams such as the Detroit Vipers and Ann Arbor Arctics.

For junior players, the National Junior Pickleball Tour offers an opportunity to earn "dream tickets" for the DUPR 18 or 20 divisions at the MiLP National Championships. Teams competing in the Team Elite Division (DUPR 18+) at the National Junior Pickleball Championship Cup (Oct 16-19, AZ) will win a share of a $4,000 prize purse and entry to the Nationals. This integration means that State Pro Leagues are now officially on the map for a national title, offering a professional format without requiring full-time commitment or extensive travel.

Sypik Unveils Quang Duong-Backed "Avatar Collection" Paddles

July 25, 2025 - Vietnam – Vietnam-based pickleball brand Sypik has officially launched its new Sypik Avatar Collection of paddles, prominently backed by 19-year-old Vietnamese sensation Quang Duong, widely considered Asia's top player. The announcement, made on July 25, 2025, highlights a significant collaboration following Duong's recent departure from Selkirk Sport.

Inspired by Avatar: The Last Airbender, the collection is designed to channel the power of all four elements: Earth, Water, Fire, and Air. Each paddle in the Sypik Avatar Collection features SYCORE™ All-Foam Core technology, promising a solid foam core with no honeycomb, massive energy transfer and control, a wider sweet spot, and greater durability and strength. Crucially, the Sypik Avatar Collection paddles are tournament-ready, being UPA-A-certified and PPA/MLP-eligible, making them suitable for the world's top professionals.

The partnership between Sypik and Quang Duong, sealed in May, is described as a "match made in heaven" given Duong's fluid, "bending" playing style and Sypik's rapid emergence as a top pickleball brand. The launch is strategically timed as Duong embraces his role as a major ambassador for the sport in Asia. The Sypik Avatar Collection is slated for a full launch at the end of August 2025.

UK's Jason Edwards Pereira Secures Coveted APP Training Spot in Florida

July 27, 2025 - UK – Jason Edwards Pereira, one of the UK’s most promising young pickleball players, has earned a coveted spot in the APP training program at the renowned Fort in Florida. The announcement on July 27, 2025, marks a significant milestone, as Jason is the first British player to be offered this exclusive opportunity to train under Ken Herrmann and his Next Gen team.

Currently ranked as the top British man under 19, Jason has been honing his skills at Pickleball Central since its establishment in 2022. His mother, Fe Edwards, lauded Jason as a "naturally talented athlete, with an incredible work ethic for his age," predicting a bright future for him in the sport.

To support Jason with the costs associated with this move and training, a GoFundMe campaign has been established. This opportunity is a testament to his dedication and potential, providing him with access to elite training facilities and coaching in the USA, a hub for professional pickleball. His journey to Florida is expected to inspire other young British players and further elevate the profile of pickleball in the UK.

Pickleball Courts Become Standard Amenity in Australian Retirement Villages

July 28, 2025 - Australia – Pickleball courts are rapidly becoming a ubiquitous feature in retirement villages and lifestyle resorts across Australia, transforming how older adults engage with physical activity and community life. As of July 28, 2025, new housing projects in every state, including Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, Western Australia, and Tasmania, are incorporating these courts as a core amenity.

Developers are increasingly focusing on health, fitness, and social well-being for seniors, recognising pickleball as an ideal sport due to its low-impact nature and ability to foster strong community connections.

Notable examples of this trend include:

• Queensland: Living Gems Rockhampton and GemLife Elimbah will feature pickleball courts as part of extensive recreational facilities. Vantage Hervey Bay has also begun welcoming residents with courts already installed.
• New South Wales: Ingenia Lifestyle Kokomo at Blueys Beach will include a pickleball court alongside other luxury amenities.
• Victoria: Lincoln Lifestyle Eagle Point (opening late 2026) and Springtree Yarrawonga will offer pickleball courts as part of their comprehensive lifestyle communities.
• South Australia: Living Choice Flagstaff Hill, an integrated retirement and golf community, provides pickleball courts among its wellness offerings.
• Western Australia: Halcyon Illyarrie in Sinagra, an over-55s community, includes pickleball courts as a central feature.
• Tasmania: A new resort in New Norfolk by Noble Life is under construction and will boast a pickleball court upon completion.

This surge in pickleball court construction underscores the sport's widespread appeal and its role in promoting active, healthy, and socially connected retirement living across Australia. It is poised to become a regular and anticipated part of retirement life.