Howells Hattrick, Pei Powers Home, ALW Double Defeat and Japan Pioneer

Good morning, pickleballers!

Welcome to yet another new week - I trust your weekend pickleballing was a success. Personally, I had an intense day out playing in the Singles Series Finals Day in Peterborough (UK) organised by Pep Giuliano and Trudy Sulyman - more on that later, in today's latest pickleball news.

Howells Hattrick! APP Tour Crowns First Male Triple Crown Winner Since 2022 in Windy Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale, USA – April 7, 2025 – Will Howells achieved a remarkable feat at the APP Fort Lauderdale Open, securing the first triple crown on the APP Tour by a male player since August 2022. Despite heavy, swirling winds affecting play throughout the weekend, Howells demonstrated exceptional skill and strategic thinking. He began his dominant run by defeating Grayson Goldin in a three-game singles final. Continuing his momentum, Howells teamed up with Jack Munro to win the men's doubles title, even achieving an 11-0 victory in one game of the final against William Sobek and Eduardo Irizarry. To complete the triple crown, Howells partnered with Bobbi Oshiro in mixed doubles, making quick work of their opponents and never dropping a game in either men’s or mixed doubles during the entire event. This victory marks Howells’ second APP singles gold and further solidifies his undefeated record with Munro in 2025.

Winds of Change: Strategic Shifts and Chaotic Play Define the APP Fort Lauderdale Open

Fort Lauderdale, USA – April 7, 2025 – The APP Fort Lauderdale Open, the first major of the year on the APP Tour, concluded amidst challenging conditions at The Fort. Heavy, swirling winds throughout the weekend forced players to make significant adjustments, leading to some unpredictable and chaotic doubles matches and demanding strategic play in singles. Despite the weather, the brand-new venue hosted packed crowds, highlighting the growing enthusiasm for professional pickleball. The event saw notable performances, including Will Howells' triple crown and Pei Chuan Kao's breakthrough singles victory. The windy conditions added an extra layer of complexity to the competition, showcasing the adaptability of the top pickleball athletes.

Howells Breaks the Goldin Curse: Singles Showdown Ends in Three-Game Triumph

Fort Lauderdale, USA – April 7, 2025 – In a highly anticipated men's singles final at the APP Fort Lauderdale Open, Will Howells turned the tables on Grayson Goldin, securing a three-game victory. Prior to this match, Goldin held a 3-0 record against Howells. However, Howells displayed consistent groundstrokes and high-level returns, ultimately winning 15-13, 12-15, 15-5. This gold medal marks Howells' second singles title on the APP Tour, his first being at the 2024 APP Sacramento. His ability to overcome a previously undefeated opponent in a major event underscores his growing dominance in the singles division.

Undefeated Dynasty: Howells & Munro Extend Perfect Run with Fourth Gold, Including a Stunning 11-0 Final

Fort Lauderdale, USA – April 7, 2025 – Will Howells and Jack Munro continued their undefeated streak in men's doubles, claiming their fourth gold medal of 2025 at the APP Fort Lauderdale Open. Their dominant performance included a remarkable 11-0 victory in the first game of the final against William Sobek and Eduardo Irizarry. Although Sobek and Irizarry mounted a comeback in the second game, Howells and Munro ultimately secured the win. This latest triumph adds to their previous gold medals in Daytona and Sacramento, establishing them as a formidable and consistent force in the men's doubles division on the APP Tour.

Flawless Finish: Howells and Oshiro Cruise to Mixed Doubles Gold Without Dropping a Single Game

Fort Lauderdale, USA – April 7, 2025 – The mixed doubles final at the APP Fort Lauderdale Open saw Will Howells and Bobbi Oshiro deliver a dominant performance, winning the gold medal without losing a single game throughout the event. They defeated Megan Fudge and Jack Munro in the final with scores of 11-4, 11-6. Oshiro's consistent play, powerful twoey counter, and exceptional overhead proved to be a perfect complement to Howells’ all-around game. This victory completed Howells' impressive triple crown, highlighting his versatility and skill across all three disciplines.

Dynamic Duo Strikes Again: Newell & Cederquist Secure Second APP Gold, Displaying Underrated Dominance

Fort Lauderdale, USA – April 7, 2025 – Yana Newell and Emily Cederquist captured their second APP gold medal as a team at the Fort Lauderdale Open. They previously won the APP Newport Beach tournament in July of the previous year and also earned a silver medal at APP Dallas. Throughout the Fort Lauderdale Open, Cederquist and Newell displayed remarkable consistency, winning 10 of their 11 games and even achieving a "pickle" (11-0 victory) against a strong team in the Round of 16. Their straight-up playing style in the final proved too much for Simone Jardim and Amanda Hendry. Newell and Cederquist are increasingly recognized as formidable contenders on the APP Tour.

London Calling, Gold Claiming: Pei Chuan Kao of Chinese Taipei Makes Stunning US Debut with APP Singles Title

Fort Lauderdale, USA – April 7, 2025 – Pei Chuan Kao, originally from Chinese Taipei and now residing in London, made a significant impact on the US pickleball scene by winning the women's singles gold medal at the APP Fort Lauderdale Open. Considered a top-three international women's singles player, Kao overcame a period of adjustment to the US playing style, winning her first three matches in three games. She then went on to win her semi-final and final matches in straight games. This victory marks a major achievement for Kao and signals her potential as a strong competitor in future US tournaments.

Rome Calling: Singles Series Finals Day Shock Winner With Top 8 Qualifying for Rome

Peterborough, UK - April 6, 2025 - On a hot, sweaty day under the David Lloyd bubble in Peterborough, the Singles Series tournament organised by Pep Giuliano of Pep's Academy and Trudy Sulyman came to a conclusion.

Played over four rounds and ending with the finals day, singles players from all over the Midlands and South of England have been competing in a rally scoring, mixed gender first-to-15 race.

Twelve men and five women qualified for the final round.

In the men's competition, two groups of six played each other with the top four in each group making the quarter-finals. Jamie Champion and Rupert Robinson won their groups and looked like favourites for the title - but there was a shock with Champion falling in the quarters 18-16 and Robinson losing his semi 17-15.

The final saw Daniel Beeson and Archie Lenton, both from Champions' Group A fight it out - Lenton coming out on top 15-13.

In the women's draw, Chantell Griffiths came through as the winner seeing off Sharon Tinsley in the final.

The plan is for the top 8 players to travel to Rome later this year to play the top 8 Italian players from a similar tournament being held currently.

Is the Reign Ending? Anna Leigh Waters Faces Mounting Challenges in Women's Pickleball

North Carolina, USA – April 6, 2025 – While still considered the best women's pickleball player, Anna Leigh Waters' dominance appears to be shrinking, as evidenced by recent results at the PPA Tour North Carolina Open. Waters and her women's doubles partner Catherine Parenteau were defeated in the final by Jorja Johnson and Tyra Black. Furthermore, Waters and her mixed doubles partner Ben Johns lost to JW Johnson and Jorja Johnson in their final. These losses, coupled with close calls in other 2025 tournaments, suggest that the gap between Waters and the rest of the field is closing.

Top Seeds Toppled! Johnson & Black Shock Waters & Parenteau in North Carolina Doubles Final

Cary, USA – April 6, 2025 – Jorja Johnson and Tyra Black delivered a stunning upset in the women's doubles final of the PPA Tour North Carolina Open, defeating the top-seeded team of Anna Leigh Waters and Catherine Parenteau. After dropping the first game 1-11, Johnson and Black mounted an impressive comeback, winning the next three games 11-6, 11-4, 11-7. This victory marks Johnson's first career women's doubles title on the PPA Tour and Black's second gold in three weeks. Their aggressive play and success in hand battles at the kitchen line proved to be the difference.

Sibling Surprise! Johnsons Conquer Pickleball Power Couple Waters & Johns in Mixed Doubles Thriller

Cary, USA – April 6, 2025 – In a thrilling five-game mixed doubles final at the PPA Tour North Carolina Open, JW Johnson and Jorja Johnson achieved their first career Championship Sunday victory over the formidable duo of Ben Johns and Anna Leigh Waters. After falling behind, the Johnson siblings rallied to win the second and third games. Despite Waters and Johns forcing a fifth game, the Johnsons finished strong with an 8-2 run to secure the title. Jorja Johnson, fresh off her women's doubles win, displayed impressive play, challenging both Waters in dink rallies and Johns in hand battles.

The New Guard Rises: Bright, Black & Johnson Tighten Grip on Women's Pickleball Elite

North Carolina, USA – April 6, 2025 – The recent performances in women's pickleball highlight the emergence of a strong group of contenders challenging Anna Leigh Waters' dominance. Anna Bright, Tyra Black, and Jorja Johnson have arguably established themselves as the No. 2, No. 3, and No. 4 women's players, consistently pushing and sometimes defeating Waters in doubles and mixed doubles. Their recent victories and close matches indicate a growing depth and competitiveness within the top tier of women's professional pickleball.

Paddle Power Shift: New JOOLA and Franklin Weapons Fuel Women's Upset Victories

North Carolina, USA – April 6, 2025 – The PPA Tour North Carolina Open saw notable performances from players using new pickleball paddle technology. Anna Bright is utilizing the JOOLA Scorpeus Pro IV, and Jorja Johnson is playing with the new Franklin C45. Both paddles are considered excellent options for women, offering manoeuvrability and power. It's suggested that these equipment changes may have contributed to their recent successes and upsets against top players.

From 9-5 Down to Champion Crown: Fahey Stages Incredible Comeback to Snatch Singles Title

Cary, USA – April 6, 2025 – Kate Fahey pulled off a remarkable comeback to win the women's singles title at the Veolia North Carolina Open, defeating Parris Todd in three games. After losing the first game, Todd held a commanding 9-5 lead in the second. However, Fahey went on an impressive six-point run to steal the second game and carried that momentum to a decisive lead in the third, ultimately securing her first title of the 2025 season. This victory was particularly special for Fahey, who recently moved to Charlotte, North Carolina, and enjoyed strong support from the home crowd.

Tardio Two-Step! Teen Sensation Earns Double Gold at North Carolina Open

Cary, USA – April 6, 2025 – Gabe Tardio had an exceptional week at the Veolia North Carolina Open, securing two gold medals. He first teamed up with Ben Johns to win the men's doubles title. Later, Tardio faced Roscoe Bellamy in the men's singles final, overcoming a first-game deficit to win in straight games and claim his second PPA singles title. The 19-year-old credited coaching from Johns and Jessie Irvine for his success.

Pickleball Paradise Lost: $280 Million Fraud Scandal Rocks Major Venue

Mesa, USA – April 6, 2025 – Legacy Park, formerly known as Bell Bank Park and a prominent host of major pickleball events, is at the centre of a massive fraud scandal. Executives behind the facility are accused of defrauding investors out of over $280 million using forged documents and inflated projections. The sprawling sports complex, which cost nearly $300 million to build and hosted APP, PPA, and MLP events, struggled financially, declared bankruptcy, and was sold for a fraction of its construction cost. The scandal raises questions about financial practices within the rapidly growing sport. The new ownership, Arizona Athletic Grounds, is not implicated in the fraud.

Bengaluru Braces for Battle: GoRally Open 2025 Promises Competitive Pickleball in India

Bengaluru, India – April 6, 2025 – The GoRally Open 2025, a PWR Level 400 pickleball tournament, is set to take place from April 24-27 at the GoRally venue in Whitefield. Organized by GoRally, the event aims to provide a competitive and collaborative atmosphere for players of all skill levels. The tournament will feature competitive matches across multiple brackets, along with workshops and training sessions. As pickleball's popularity grows in India, particularly in Bengaluru, events like the GoRally Open play a crucial role in building a stronger and more connected pickleball community.

Asia's Ace Signs On: Phúc Huỳnh Champions Zocker Pickleball's New Paddle Line

Hanoi, Vietnam – April 5, 2025 – Phúc Huỳnh, recognized as Asia’s No.1 men’s singles pickleball player, has been announced as the brand ambassador for Zocker Pickleball Paddles. The Vietnamese sports brand unveiled their new Zocker Aspire paddle line, with Phúc Huỳnh playing a key role in the design, testing, and development of the product. The Aspire paddles come in two thicknesses and are designed with high-quality materials to offer a balance of power, control, and durability. This partnership signifies Zocker’s commitment to promoting pickleball in Vietnam and across Asia.

Guam Goes Gold: Tennis Converts Sweep Top Honors in Local Pickleball Tournament

Tamuning, Guam – April 7, 2025 – The PGA Spring Tournament 2025 in Guam saw significant success for former tennis players Aaron Bonto and William Endozo, who dominated the men's open divisions. Bonto won both the men's singles title, defeating Endozo in the final, and the men's doubles title, partnering with Endozo. In the women's open divisions, Jane Quitano secured the singles gold, defeating Annie Zhao, and then teamed up with Zhao to win the women's doubles title. The tournament drew over 50 players and awarded 54 medals across various divisions.

Brazil Breaks Ground: Liga Supremo Pioneers VAR in Non-US Pickleball League

Governador Valadares, Brazil – April 6, 2025 – Liga Supremo in Brazil has become the first pickleball league outside the United States to implement VAR (Video Assistant Referee) in its matches. The system was first used during the second stage of their season in Governador Valadares. The introduction of VAR was considered a success by the organization, athletes, and referees, helping in crucial moments of important matches. Liga Supremo, established in 2024 with significant infrastructure and prize money, aims to professionalize pickleball in Brazil, mirroring the sport's growth in the US.

Vietnamese Star Power Arrives: World No. 6 Quang Duong Headlines Malaysia's Panas Cup

Setia Alam, Malaysia – April 6, 2025 – The Panas Cup 2025, taking place from April 8-13, will feature Quang Duong, the world’s sixth-ranked men’s singles pickleball player from Vietnam. Quang Duong, along with his brother Bao, will participate in exhibition matches and conduct coaching clinics during the event hosted by 9Pickle. This marks a significant event for Malaysia's growing pickleball scene, offering players a chance to interact with one of the sport's top international talents.

Japan's First PPA Pioneer: Soft Tennis Champ Funemizu Makes Historic Leap to US Pro Tour

USA – April 7, 2025 – Yuta Funemizu, Japan’s former Soft Tennis World Champion, has signed an exclusive contract with the PPA Tour and Major League Pickleball (MLP), making him the first Japanese player to join these premier leagues. Funemizu moved to the US in January 2024 to focus on pickleball and has already achieved success, including a mixed doubles victory over Collin Johns. His fast-paced and aggressive playing style has drawn comparisons to other top pros. Funemizu hopes his presence will contribute to the growth of pickleball in Japan.

Tennis Ace Trades Racket for Paddle: Ly Hoang Nam Embarks on Pickleball Journey

Hanoi, Vietnam – April 4, 2025 – Ly Hoang Nam, Vietnam’s top tennis player for many years, has announced his transition to professional pickleball. Citing a desire for a new challenge, the former Wimbledon Junior Doubles champion will temporarily halt his tennis career to focus on pickleball. While initially trying the sport out of curiosity, Nam has developed a commitment to competing in world pickleball tournaments. He plans to focus on domestic events initially before venturing into international competitions. This move reflects a growing trend of accomplished tennis players finding new opportunities in the burgeoning sport of pickleball.