Duong Banned, India Court Battle, UK Facilities & Wales Trials
Good morning, pickleballers!
It's time for the latest pickleball news - as ever, we are bringing you the freshest pickleball news from all over the world.
Before we get into that, check out this week's podcast.
Chris and Gordon talk about all the latest world pickleball news - the PPL draft in England, Armaan Bhatia winning gold in the US (the first-ever APP gold for India), Thaddea Lock in Dubai and dominating Paris, preview the June World Pickleball Magazine and Chris puts Gordo on the spot with an Asia All Stars vs USA All Stars team selection!
We also have today's pickleball news in audio for you thanks to our Deep Dive.
And if you are old-fashioned like me and just like reading, here you go.
Here is a news story based on the provided headline and information:
Pickleball Superstar Rocked by Ban: UPA Suspends Duong, Slaps Him with $50,000 Fine
USA – The United Pickleball Association (UPA) has taken disciplinary action, suspending professional pickleball player Quang Duong for violating the exclusivity clause in his contract. The 19-year-old athlete is alleged to have competed in a non-PPA professional tournament during a recent trip to his home country of Vietnam. Under the terms of their agreements, most players contracted with the UPA, including Duong, are required to obtain prior approval before participating in other tournaments. Although Duong posted on social media about attending a charity event in Vietnam, even such participation would have mandated prior UPA approval, which reportedly did not occur.
The sanctions imposed on Duong are substantial and carry significant implications. He faces suspension from play in one PPA Tour tournament, suspension from four matches at MLP Phoenix, and has been ordered to pay a $50,000 fine. For Duong's MLP team, the Los Angeles Mad Drops, this is a major blow, as he will miss over half of their six scheduled matches at the upcoming MLP Phoenix event. Duong, who was the seventh overall pick in the 2025 free agency draft, will also be forced to miss the Select Medical Orange County Cup in June, a significant tournament offering 1500 ranking points.
Chichester Racquets and Fitness Club Set to Launch Brand-New Dedicated Outdoor Pickleball Facility This Summer
Chichester, UK – Chichester Racquets and Fitness Club has announced the launch of a brand-new pickleball facility, signalling a significant expansion in its efforts to promote inclusive and diverse sporting opportunities within the local community. The club, already well-known for its Padel, Tennis, Squash, and Fitness amenities, is set to unveil a dedicated outdoor pickleball court this summer.
Described by Club Manager Terri Wheeler as a "natural next step" due to growing interest both nationally and locally in Chichester, the new facility is expected to open to members and non-members in July. Located on the South side of the club’s grounds, the outdoor court will allow for year-round play. The club plans to offer coaching clinics, introductory sessions, and league play for athletes.
To celebrate the launch, Chichester Racquets and Fitness Club will host a launch event in early July. This event will feature demonstrations and free beginner sessions, inviting the community to discover the rapidly growing sport.
Battle for India's Pickleball Supremacy: Delhi High Court Reserves Decision on Recognition Case
Delhi, India – The Delhi High Court has reserved its decision in a significant case concerning the official recognition of pickleball in India. The outcome of this legal battle will determine which body is granted National Sports Federation status and officially leads the sport within the country.
The case was brought by the All India Pickleball Association (AIPA), which is challenging the Sports Ministry's decision to recognise the Indian Pickleball Association (IPA) as the national sports body. AIPA contends that it applied for recognition even before the IPA was incorporated. During the court hearing, the Sports Ministry's lawyer reportedly argued that granting affiliation is their "policy decision" and they have the discretion to recognise whomever they choose.
Adding complexity, a third group, the New Indian Pickleball Association (NIPA), has become involved. NIPA, which had previously joined AIPA, now accuses the current IPA of misusing its name and claiming credit for events NIPA organised in the past.
Justice Sachin Datta heard the matter, and a ruling is now expected within approximately four weeks. The decision is eagerly awaited by players and organisers, as it will impact who can hold national events and receive government support.
Fastest Growing Sport Comes Indoors to Malton: Casa Del Padel Opens Padel & Pickleball Courts May 31st
Malton, UK – The fastest growing sport in the world, according to local operators, is arriving indoors in North Yorkshire. Casa Del Padel, a new facility featuring two indoor padel courts and one indoor pickleball court, is set to officially open at Malton Enterprise Park (MEP) on the morning of Saturday, May 31st.
The venture is being run by ex-York City star Andy McMillan and his family, in partnership with the park developers. Andy McMillan described padel and its "sister sport, pickleball" as "unstoppable". The new courts are part of a larger Health Hub at Malton Enterprise Park, which also includes a 24/7 gym and a brand-new cafe.
The official launch day on Saturday, May 31st, will be open to the public from 12 noon to 4 pm, promising music, food, and drinks, with York City legends also hoping to make an appearance. The indoor facility will provide year-round access to both racquet sports.
Pickleball Wales Announces European Championships Team Trials in Telford on July 27th
Telford, UK – Pickleball Wales has officially announced that they will hold team trials for the upcoming European Championships in September. The trials are scheduled to take place in Telford on Sunday, July 27th, running from 10 am to 2 pm.
Pickleball Wales is seeking players for two categories: 18+ and 50+. To be eligible, players must have been born in Wales or lived there for over two years and must not have represented another country in the past year. Specific DUPR rating minimums apply: 4.0 for men and 3.75 for women.
Interested players must first apply in writing by Friday, June 20th, to info@pickleballwales.org. The application should include their current DUPR rating, experience, competition history from the last 18 months, and successes. The board will review applications before issuing invitations to the trials. Selected players will need to cover their own travel and accommodation costs for the European Championships in Rome, although Pickleball Wales has paid the team's entry fee.