Federations Merge, CRACK’D Launches, Upsets Rock PPA Tour

Good morning, pickleballers!

Loads to catch up on today, it has been a busy few days in the world of pickleball.

If you want to listen to today's pickleball news Deep Dive, you can below.

Here's all the latest pickleball news from around the world.

One Voice, One Dream: Pickleball Federations Unite in Historic Merger, Eyes Set on Olympic Inclusion

Lausanne, Switzerland – In a landmark development for the sport, the International Pickleball Federation (IPF) and the World Pickleball Federation (WPF) officially merged on June 14, 2025, forming a single unified international body now known as the World Pickleball Federation. This historic consolidation aims to significantly bolster pickleball's ambition for Olympic inclusion, with eyes firmly set on the 2032 or 2036 Games, and even a distant possibility for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

The newly merged federation plans to establish its headquarters in Lausanne, Switzerland, a strategic move that aligns with the requirements and standards of the International Olympic Committee (IOC). Prior to this merger, pickleball's global governance was fragmented among three main bodies: the IPF, WPF, and the Global Pickleball Federation (GPF). The unification addresses a critical IOC demand for a single global governing structure, enhancing the sport’s credibility and Olympic aspirations. The GPF, which itself boasts a robust membership of 67 countries, has expressed openness to unifying with the newly merged entity, emphasising the need for a singular, unified effort for Olympic inclusion. This pivotal step represents a significant stride towards presenting a cohesive and strong front for pickleball's Olympic future.

 

CRACK'D Revolution: England Star Millie Smythe Turns Pickleball Waste into Gold

London, England – England international pickleball player Millie Smythe has launched a groundbreaking initiative called "CRACK’D," a company dedicated to promoting sustainability by recycling discarded pickleballs. Smythe, who studied design at university with a keen interest in environmental issues, became increasingly concerned by the significant plastic waste generated by the sport since she began playing in 2023. Globally, an estimated 500 million pickleballs are manufactured annually, contributing to 35,000 tonnes of plastic waste each year.

Recognising this growing environmental challenge, Smythe created CRACK’D as a solution for players, clubs, and event organisers to responsibly recycle their broken pickleballs. "With the sport gaining popularity, so too is its plastic waste problem," Smythe told Pickleball 52. She emphasised that while most people desire to reduce their environmental impact, the necessary systems have been lacking—until now. Using her expertise in sustainable design, CRACK’D will transform rescued pickleball material into a range of new, exciting products, ensuring these balls stay out of landfills and are given a valuable second life. Clubs and players eager to support CRACK’D's mission can connect directly through the company’s website or via email. This innovative venture marks a significant step towards a more eco-friendly future for pickleball.

MLP Mid-Season Mayhem: Hogs Waive Johns, Shock Make Trade, Visa Issues Plague Key Teams

United States – Major League Pickleball (MLP) is abuzz with significant roster changes as teams adjust ahead of the second half of the 2025 season, revealing a landscape of bold strategic moves and unexpected challenges. The Carolina Hogs made one of the biggest headlines by waiving Collin Johns and bringing in Martin Emmrich during the MLP Bench Player Replacement Period. Despite being available to other Premier level teams, Johns was not picked up and will now be available in the Challenger level waiver period.

Meanwhile, the Texas Ranchers reshaped their lineup by signing Wyatt Stone and releasing Rafa Hewett, following a series of other trades last week. Two prominent teams, the Orlando Squeeze and New York Hustlers, faced unique hurdles as they were forced to temporarily replace key players, Tom Evans and Helena Spiridis, due to ongoing visa issues. These players, both from Australia, were placed on a Restricted List by the United Pickleball Association until their P1 visas are fully approved, leading to Grayson Goldin joining Orlando and Luana Stanciu joining New York as temporary replacements. In a strategic move among top contenders, the St. Louis Shock, currently leading the league with an impressive 13-1 record, traded Cailyn Campbell to the SoCal Hard Eights in exchange for Judit Castillo, aiming to bolster their roster for a playoff push. These dynamic roster shifts are set to significantly impact team performances as the MLP season progresses.

 

Hong Kong Joins the Pro Tour: Kai Tak Arena Prepares for Inaugural Pickleball Extravaganza

Hong Kong, China – The vibrant city of Hong Kong is set to make its mark on the professional pickleball circuit with the announcement of its inaugural professional tour event. This highly anticipated event will take place at the state-of-the-art Kai Tak Arena, promising to bring top-tier pickleball action to a burgeoning market in Asia.

The decision to host a professional tour event in Hong Kong underscores the rapid global expansion of pickleball, which has seen remarkable growth in Asia and other regions. As the sport continues to capture the attention of athletes and fans worldwide, bringing a professional tour to new territories like Hong Kong is crucial for its development and exposure. The Kai Tak Arena, a modern and expansive venue, is expected to provide an ideal setting for players to showcase their skills and for spectators to experience the thrill of professional pickleball firsthand. This inaugural event is anticipated to not only entertain but also inspire a new generation of pickleball enthusiasts in Hong Kong, further cementing the city’s role as a growing hub for international sports.

UK Prodigy Jack MacGregor Takes on New Role: PicklePad Ambassador Set to Grow the Game

Dorset, England – Jack MacGregor, one of the United Kingdom's top young pickleball talents, has officially become the newest ambassador for PicklePad, a premier facility located in Dorset. This "cool opportunity," as MacGregor describes it, aims to significantly boost the sport's profile and participation throughout Dorset and beyond, leveraging PicklePad’s "amazing facility".

MacGregor, who discovered pickleball two and a half years ago alongside his mother, quickly excelled in the sport, feeling he improved with every play. His rapid ascent saw him picked second in the Premier Pickleball League (PPL) draft for Pure Pickleball, a testament to his burgeoning skill. As a PicklePad ambassador, MacGregor will be a full-time presence at the facility during the summer, hosting a variety of events designed to draw more people to the courts and encourage broader engagement with pickleball. His schedule for the remainder of 2025 is packed with major competitions, including the ONE Pickleball championships in July, the English OPEN in August, the new PPL season, and the Nationals. MacGregor's personal goals for the year are simple: "Keep playing, keep getting better," a dedication he now extends to promoting the sport through his new ambassadorial role.

Orange County Cup Shocks and Surges: Underdogs Ignite PPA Tour with Stunning Upsets and Epic Comebacks

San Clemente, California, USA – The PPA Tour’s Select Medical Orange County Cup at Life Time Rancho San Clemente has delivered a thrilling showcase of upsets and remarkable comebacks, as underdog players defied expectations and surged through the men’s singles and doubles draws. Jack Sock staged a dramatic comeback in the men’s singles Round of 64, overcoming a first-game deficit to defeat Martin Emmrich 5-11, 11-7, 12-10, demonstrating impressive mental toughness.

Further adding to the tournament’s excitement, No. 46 seed James Ignatowich executed a stunning turnaround against No. 10 seed Zane Ford in the Round of 32, bouncing back from an 0-11 first-game loss to win 11-1, 11-4. Rafael Lenhard, a rising full-time professional, continued his sensational run, defeating Zane Navratil 11-4, 10-12, 11-3 in the Round of 32. This followed his controversial Round of 64 upset of No. 4 seed Ben Johns (11-6, 14-12), a match that ended with a hotly debated no-call on match point. In men’s doubles, the first-time partnership of Jonathan Truong and Sammy Lee, seeded No. 41, captivated audiences by escaping match point in qualifying rounds and then surging into the Round of 16 with a convincing 11-9, 11-4 victory over No. 9 seeds Roscoe Bellamy and Matt Wright. Their aggressive and consistent styles proved to be a formidable combination. The UPA Asia Trailblazers program also saw success as Yufei Long and Jamie Wei surprised No. 4 seeds Jorja Johnson and Lacy Schneemann in women’s doubles (12-10, 8-11, 11-5), showcasing the impact of their intensive training.

Megha Kapoor's Maxwill Move: Indian Pickleball Star Set to Ignite Global Growth

India – Indian pickleball sensation and International Federation of Pickleball (IFP) Ambassador, Megha Kapoor, has signed a pivotal deal with Maxwill Sports, a move poised to significantly accelerate the sport's global expansion. Kapoor, who transitioned from lawn tennis to pickleball in 2016, quickly found success, notably winning a gold medal at the 2018 Spanish Open Pickleball Championships.

Kapoor is celebrated for her exceptional skill, dedication, and ability to balance a demanding full-time career as a software engineer with her rigorous training and participation in national and international pickleball tournaments. Her consistent performances in Indian events and her tireless efforts in promoting pickleball have made her a recognisable figure across both India and the UK, inspiring young athletes, particularly women, to embrace the sport. Andre Roberts, Global Business Development Manager at Maxwill Sports, expressed immense enthusiasm for the partnership, stating that Kapoor’s "passion, versatility, and commitment to pioneering pickleball in India align perfectly with our mission to innovate and inspire". This collaboration transcends a mere sponsorship; it signifies Maxwill Sports' commitment to fostering top athletic talent and broadening pickleball's reach into new markets. With Maxwill Sports’ backing, Megha Kapoor is now even better positioned to connect with wider audiences and drive further growth for pickleball on a global scale.

Unprecedented Unity: National Deaf Pickleball Tournament Shatters Records, Fills in Hours

Pikesville, Maryland, USA – The fifth annual National Deaf Pickleball Tournament, scheduled for October 9-12 at Bounce Pickleball in Pikesville, Maryland, has shattered previous records by filling its registration within a mere few hours. Over 520 deaf and hard-of-hearing players, ranging in age from 18 to 80, have signed up to compete in singles, gender doubles, and mixed doubles, showcasing the immense passion and rapid growth of deaf pickleball across the country.

Audrey Frank, Tournament Co-Chair, highlighted the overwhelming response, attributing it to the enthusiastic deaf community in the D.C.-Maryland-Virginia area and the sport's burgeoning popularity nationwide. This tournament is more than just a competition; it serves as a powerful testament to community, inclusivity, and profound support among players who share a common language, culture, and life experiences. Frank emphasised that the goal is to create an experience where every participant feels fulfilled, building and renewing friendships beyond the pursuit of medals. The event at Bounce Pickleball, Maryland's largest indoor pickleball venue with 18 courts, promises a "fun and welcoming atmosphere" with competitive matches, a lively exhibitor lounge, social events, food trucks, and giveaways. To further enhance inclusivity, Frank encourages hearing players to learn basic sign language for scoring, a simple gesture that can make a significant difference for deaf athletes on the court.

Uganda Open Showdown: Japanese Powerhouse Nishimura and Local Star Awori Claim Top Honours

Old Kampala, Uganda – The Uganda Pickleball Open, held on June 15, 2025, at the Old Kampala Sports Arena, concluded with impressive victories for Japanese national Naoya Nishimura in the men’s singles and local favourite Brenda Awori in the women’s singles. Nishimura triumphed over James Mugula in a tightly contested men’s singles final, winning 2-1 after dropping the second set.

Brenda Awori also showcased her dominance, securing the women’s singles title by defeating Mandi Namaganda by the same 2-1 score. Awori further solidified her status by teaming up with Benjamin Achuma to claim the mixed doubles championship, overcoming the pair of Mugula and Namaganda 2-0. Nishimura, on his first visit to Africa, expressed his enjoyment of the experience, praising the weather and the local people. He noted the energetic play of the Ugandan youngsters, contrasting it with the more strategic approach common among Japanese players. Achuma, who lost to Nishimura in the men's singles semifinals, found consolation by winning the third-place play-off. The tournament highlighted the growing talent pool in Uganda and served as a vibrant international exchange for the sport.

Lifelong Passion: UK's Full-Time Pickler Thaddea Lock Eyes Career into Her 70s

Somerset, England – Thaddea Lock, a prominent pickleball star from Somerset, England is envisioning an exceptionally long career in the sport, potentially extending into her 60s and 70s. Her aspiration is rooted in pickleball's remarkable accessibility, a key factor that drew her to the game.

Lock, who is one of the highest-ranked players in the country, first encountered pickleball in 2018 while coaching tennis in the United States. She found the sport to be a refreshing change from the often "lonely and isolating" world of professional tennis, which can also be prohibitively expensive for many. In pickleball, Lock discovered a vibrant community unlike anything she had experienced before, fostering a sense of connection and continuous improvement. Last month, she clinched a silver medal at the English championships, a testament to her ongoing success. Emphasising the sport's inclusive nature, Lock expressed her excitement about the ability to "play at any age," firmly believing that she can "have a whole career in pickleball for the rest of my life".

Anna Leigh Waters Dares to Perform: World No. 1 Partners with U by Kotex to Tackle Period Stigma Head-On

San Clemente, California, USA – Anna Leigh Waters, the 18-year-old world No. 1 women's pickleball player, has forged a significant partnership with U by Kotex® in a bold initiative to challenge and dismantle period stigma in sports. This collaboration aims to empower female athletes and normalise conversations around menstruation, directly confronting the outdated notion that periods hinder athletic performance.

Waters recently provided powerful proof of concept at a tournament in San Clemente, California, where she swept all her doubles matches while on her period, definitively demonstrating that peak performance is achievable during menstruation. She highlighted that many girls mistakenly believe playing on their period is a barrier to success, often leading them to drop out of sports entirely. A UK study supports this, revealing that over 84% of teenage girls aged 11-16 reported decreased interest in sports after starting their period, with nearly 25% feeling embarrassed to participate in physical activity during their menstrual cycle. Through this partnership, U by Kotex® and Waters are not only working to debunk these stigmas but also to foster an environment where playing on one's period is seen as a source of strength and normal. Nicole Pawlukowsky, Vice President of U by Kotex®, affirmed the brand’s commitment to championing female athletes’ resilience, asserting that a period should never prevent a woman from pursuing her goals and performing at her best.

Pickleball Mania Sweeps the Globe: Billions in Asia Aware, UK Membership Soars by 65%

Singapore – Pickleball's meteoric rise is undeniable, with new data revealing a global wave of enthusiasm for the sport, particularly in Asia and the United Kingdom. A comprehensive study titled "State of Play in Asia," conducted by the United Pickleball Association Asia and YouGov Singapore across 12 Asian countries, unveiled massive awareness and rapidly growing participation. The extrapolated findings indicate that approximately 1.9 billion people in these countries have heard of pickleball, and a staggering 812 million have played it at least once.

The study points to a recent surge in popularity, with 60% year-on-year growth and 62% of respondents having learned about the sport only in the last two years. India leads the charge in Asia, boasting over 178 million frequent players, followed by China with over 60 million. The reasons for this burgeoning participation vary, with 35% playing for fun, 33% for physical health benefits, and 31% drawn by the sport's ease of learning. The pickleball phenomenon extends beyond Asia, with the United Kingdom reporting a remarkable 65% increase in Pickleball England membership over the past year, bringing the estimated player count to 35,000 across the country. Karen Mitchell, Chair and Co-Founder of Pickleball England, encapsulates the sport's universal appeal, describing the joy it brings as "that inner child just comes out playing this game".