Tuesday's World Pickleball Report: Macao to Cayman Island Highlights

Here's Tuesday's World Pickleball Report!

Macao Catches Pickleball Fever! Community Rises to Champion the Growing Sport

Pickleball is rapidly gaining popularity in Macao, with a passionate local community spearheading its growth. Enthusiastic players and dedicated organizations are actively introducing the sport to a wider audience, recognizing its surge in popularity on the Chinese mainland. This community-driven movement has garnered backing from the Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) and increasing interest from sports enthusiasts. The sport's appeal in Macao stems from its accessibility, space-efficiency, and social inclusivity, making it suitable for the urban environment and bringing together people of all ages. The Macau China Pickleball General Association is actively promoting the sport through events and training programs.

Macao's Pickleball Push is Real: General Association Powers Up Community Engagement

The Macau China Pickleball General Association is playing a crucial role in the burgeoning pickleball scene in Macao. This dedicated organization is actively promoting the sport and engaging the community through various initiatives. Their efforts include organizing events and implementing training programs aimed at introducing pickleball to a broader segment of the population. By fostering community involvement and providing opportunities to learn and play, the General Association is a key driving force behind the increasing popularity of pickleball in Macao.

Soar Spotlights Success! Macao Unveils First Dedicated Pickleball Paradise

A significant milestone for pickleball in Macao has been the recent opening of the Soar Sports Centre at Fisherman’s Wharf, the city’s first dedicated pickleball venue. This marks a crucial step in the sport’s development in the region, providing a central location specifically designed for pickleball play. The Soar Sports Centre is expected to support the continued growth of the sport by offering dedicated courts and facilities for both recreational and potentially competitive play.

Beyond the Casinos: Macao Bets on Budding Competitive Pickleball Scene

While recreational pickleball is flourishing in Macao, the city is also beginning to focus on developing its competitive scene. Inspired by neighbouring regions like Hong Kong and Shenzhen, which are increasingly participating in international tournaments, Macao’s players are starting to explore opportunities for regional competition. Although Macao currently has no confirmed representatives at major international events, local players and organizations are actively working to build the necessary infrastructure to support future participation in higher-level competitions.

Macao's Master Plan: Forging a Future in High-Level Pickleball

Macao has a promising future in competitive pickleball, with key steps being taken to build a sustainable ecosystem. One crucial initiative is the development of structured leagues and training programs at the Soar Sports Centre, creating a pathway for players to advance from casual play to serious competition. Looking ahead, Macao aims to establish official pickleball clubs and leagues, collaborate with regional and international organizations to host tournaments and workshops, and grow grassroots initiatives to introduce the sport in schools and community centres.

Malaysian Pickleball Clash Announced! Bangi & Sg Long Unite for Balakong Championship 2025

The Bangi Pickleball Club and Persatuan Sukarelawan Sg Long have joined forces to organize the Balakong Pickleball Championship 2025 in Malaysia. The tournament will feature an Intermediate Category and is scheduled for May 3, 2025, at Double Bounce Balakong. Specific categories include Men’s Doubles, Women’s Doubles, and Mixed Doubles for players aged 19 and above, as well as Mixed Doubles with a combined age of 90 or more.

Balakong Battleground: RM 11,000 Prize Pot Fuels Malaysian Pickleball Championship!

The upcoming Balakong Pickleball Championship 2025 boasts a total of RM 11,000 worth of cash and prizes for the participants. Winners in the Men’s Doubles and Mixed Doubles categories will receive RM 1,188, a trophy, and two Astes Sports Clairvoyant Pro paddles. Second and third-place finishers will also be awarded cash prizes and trophies. Champions in the Women’s Doubles and Mixed Doubles (combined age 90) will receive RM 588, a trophy, and two Astes Sports merchandise items.

Paddle Prize Power! Astes Gear Up for Balakong Pickleball Champions

Astes Sports is serving as an official partner and sponsor for the Balakong Pickleball Championship 2025. As part of their sponsorship, the champions of the Men’s Doubles and Mixed Doubles categories will each receive two Astes Sports Clairvoyant Pro paddles. Additionally, the winners of the Women’s Doubles and Mixed Doubles (combined age 90) will be awarded Astes Sports merchandise. This highlights the involvement of sporting goods companies in supporting the growth of pickleball tournaments in the region.

Race to Register! Balakong Pickleball Championship Opens Doors to Sub-3.5 DUPR Stars

Registration for the Balakong Pickleball Championship 2025 has begun, and interested players must have a DUPR rating below 3.5 at the time of registration and must not have duplicate accounts. The Men’s Double and Mixed Doubles categories will accept up to 32 teams each, while the Women’s Doubles and Mixed Doubles with a combined age of 90 will be capped at 16 teams each. Players are allowed to sign up for multiple categories, provided there are no scheduling conflicts.

Cayman Islands Courtside Upset! Oshiro & Livornese Strike Mixed Doubles Gold

Bobbi Oshiro and Richard Livornese secured the gold medal in the Mixed Open Doubles division at the Association of Pickleball Players (APP) pro event held in the Cayman Islands. In a significant victory, the duo defeated top-seeded Megan Fudge and Jack Munro in the final at the newly opened Pickleball Cayman facility in George Town. The tournament attracted more than 240 players and served as a "test run" for a potential future APP tour stop.

Caribbean Pickleball Test a Smash! APP Eyes Cayman Tour Stop After Strong Debut

The recent APP pro event in the Cayman Islands, featuring over 240 players at the new Pickleball Cayman facility, was a resounding success, signalling the growing interest in international pickleball events. Held as a "test run," the tournament attracted top-tier competitors and prize money, despite not awarding APP ranking points. The strong turnout and the quality of the venue have prompted APP officials to likely evaluate the possibility of adding George Town to the official tour schedule in the future.

No Points, All Prizes! Top Pros Flock to Cayman for High-Stakes Pickleball

The APP event in the Cayman Islands drew a significant number of top touring professionals who took advantage of a recent cancellation of PWR commitments. Although no APP ranking points were awarded, the tournament offered prize money, attracting a highly competitive field of over 240 players. The event at the new Pickleball Cayman facility provided a mix of high-level competition and a Caribbean getaway, making it an attractive option for many pros.

Back Draw Bronze! Newell & Kawka Claim Cayman Mixed Doubles Podium

The team of Yana Newell and Michal Kawka fought their way through the back draw to secure the bronze medal in the Mixed Open Doubles division at the APP event in the Cayman Islands. Their resilience and determination allowed them to reach the podium after an initial setback, highlighting the competitive depth of the tournament. Bobbi Oshiro and Richard Livornese ultimately won the gold in this division.

Livornese Doubles Down! Munro Joins Him for Cayman Men's Doubles Gold

Richard Livornese had a successful showing at the APP event in the Cayman Islands, also claiming gold in the Men’s Open Doubles division alongside Jack Munro. The duo defeated Mick and Yana Newell in the final, further highlighting Livornese's strong performance throughout the tournament. This victory in men's doubles adds to his gold medal in mixed doubles, showcasing his versatility and skill.

Cayman Chaos Pays Off! DeHeart & Kawka Snag Men's Doubles Bronze

Ryler DeHeart and Andrei Kawka secured the bronze medal in the Men’s Open Doubles division at the APP event in the Cayman Islands. They battled through a competitive field to reach the podium, showcasing their skill and determination. The gold medal in this division was won by Jack Munro and Richard Livornese. DeHeart also won gold in the Men's Open Singles event at the same tournament.

Castillo Shocks the Seed! Untamed Victory in Cayman Women's Singles Final

Judit Castillo emerged victorious in the Women’s Open Singles event at the APP tournament in the Cayman Islands, achieving an upset by defeating No. 1 seed Yana Newell in the final. Castillo delivered a dominant performance to claim the gold medal at the newly opened Pickleball Cayman facility. Newell had previously defeated rising star Schull in the semifinals.

Back Draw Brilliance! Pitts Battles to Cayman Women's Singles Bronze

Nicole Pitts showcased remarkable resilience at the APP tournament in the Cayman Islands, battling through the back draw to secure the bronze medal in the Women’s Open Singles event. After an early loss, Pitts demonstrated her skill and determination by fighting her way back to the podium. Judit Castillo won the gold medal in this division, defeating top seed Yana Newell.

DeHeart Dominates! Veteran Takes Cayman Men's Singles Crown

Veteran player Ryler DeHeart proved his prowess by winning the gold medal in the Men’s Open Singles event at the APP tournament in the Cayman Islands. The No. 2 seed secured a hard-fought victory in the final against Max Wild, a former UCLA standout. The tournament, held at the new Pickleball Cayman facility, attracted over 240 players. Richard Livornese Jr. took home the bronze medal in this division.

Livornese Completes Cayman Trifecta! Singles Bronze Adds to Gold Haul

Richard Livornese had an exceptional showing at the APP event in the Cayman Islands, securing his third medal by winning bronze in the Men’s Open Singles division. This adds to his two gold medals won in the Mixed Open Doubles (with Bobbi Oshiro) and the Men’s Open Doubles (with Jack Munro). Livornese's performance highlights his versatility and competitive edge across multiple categories.

Mumbai's Massive Pickleball Party! PicklePalooza Promises Thrills, Tunes, and Top Gear

The PicklePalooza Open Festival is set to take place in Mumbai on April 12-13, 2025, at the Maniac Pickleball Arena in Vile Parle West. This two-day festival is more than just a tournament; it's a celebration of the pickleball community, featuring intense matches, food, music, and exciting prizes. Participants can expect a vibrant atmosphere and the opportunity to experience top-notch gear and the latest equipment.

₹3.5 Lakh Prize Fiesta! Mumbai's PicklePalooza Beckons Players

The PicklePalooza Open Festival in Mumbai offers a significant total cash prize pool of ₹3.5 lakhs, along with various other goodies for participants. Every player will receive an exclusive jersey, adding to the event's appeal. The festival aims to be an exhilarating experience for pickleball fans, combining competitive play with a strong sense of community spirit. Entry fees for the event start at ₹1,500.

Celebrities Serve Up Hope! Phillips & Baldwin Join Smash Out Skin Cancer Pickleball Charity

The Smash Out Skin Cancer Celebrity Pickleball Tournament will be held on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at IPOP in Vancouver. Celebrities Chynna Phillips and Billy Baldwin will participate in this exciting event to raise awareness and funds for the fight against skin cancer while promoting the sport of pickleball. The tournament offers a unique opportunity to support a worthy cause while enjoying the growing sport.

Rally for Research! Teams Unite to Battle Skin Cancer on Vancouver Pickleball Courts

Participants in the Smash Out Skin Cancer Celebrity Pickleball Tournament in Vancouver can register as individuals or join/create teams, with each team required to raise a minimum of $1,000 to compete (youth teams need to raise $300). This fundraising effort is crucial for supporting skin cancer research and awareness initiatives. The event aims to bring the community together with celebrities to highlight the importance of skin health and prevention.

Burnaby Braces for Dink Dynasty! Minor League Pickleball Canada Launch Tournament Ready

The Dink Minor League Pickleball @ Canada Launch Party and Tournament WEST is scheduled to take place on April 5, 2025, at the Inclusive Place of Pickleball in Burnaby, BC. Registration for this inaugural event is currently open and will close on April 1, 2025. Organized by Tournament Director Tim MacVinnie, the event promises to be an engaging experience for players of all skill levels.

Canada's $100 Entry to Excitement! Dink Minor League Pickleball Tournament Registration Open

Players interested in participating in the Dink Minor League Pickleball tournament in Burnaby, BC, must register and pay a fee of CAD 100.00 per player. The tournament, set for April 5, 2025, offers a competitive format allowing teams to showcase their skills and compete for prizes. This event presents an excellent opportunity for players to connect with the local pickleball community and experience the thrill of tournament play.

Houston Hammers Serve Healing! Pro Pickleball Team Helps Veterans Ace PTSD

The Houston Hammers, Houston's only professional pickleball team in the National Pickleball League, have partnered with Camp Hope to support veterans recovering from PTSD. The collaboration includes hosting pickleball clinics to introduce veterans to the sport and provide a supportive community. Co-owners Amy Blumrosen and Hugh Zhang aim to make a positive social impact through pickleball and support Camp Hope’s mission.

Courtside Therapy: Houston Hammers' Pickleball Clinics Empower Veterans

The Houston Hammers recently held their second pickleball clinic for veterans at their Sugar Land facility on March 18. These clinics aim to introduce Camp Hope veterans to pickleball, offering a recreational outlet and a supportive community as part of their recovery. Chris Fahey, a Navy veteran and Camp Hope graduate, now a developmental specialist for the nonprofit, highlighted the therapeutic benefits of such activities.

Aces for Awareness! Houston Hammers Team Up with Astros for Pickleball Night Fundraiser

In April, the Houston Hammers will collaborate with the Houston Astros for a pickleball night at Daikin Park to further aid Camp Hope. Camp Hope will have an informational booth at the event, raising awareness for their program supporting veterans with PTSD. This partnership demonstrates the Houston Hammers' commitment to using pickleball as a platform for community engagement and fundraising.

Building Hope, One Bounce at a Time: Houston Hammers Plan Permanent Courts for Veterans

The Houston Hammers have future plans to make a lasting impact on the veterans at Camp Hope by installing permanent pickleball courts at their facility. This initiative aims to provide veterans with an ongoing recreational outlet and a continued sense of belonging through the sport. The provision of these permanent courts will offer long-term therapeutic and community-building opportunities for the veterans in the program.

FOX Goes Picklebrawl! PPA Tour's National TV Debut at Black Desert Resort Red Rock Open

The PPA Tour will make its 2025 debut on the FOX national network at this week’s Black Desert Resort Red Rock Open. Championship Sunday action from Little Valley Sports Complex will be broadcast live on FOX from 4:30-6:30pm ET, following Major League Soccer. This marks the fifth time since 2024 that the PPA Tour has secured an exclusive slot on a major TV network.

Prime Time Pickleball! FOX Networks Amp Up Coverage of Red Rock Open

In addition to the live FOX slot on Sunday, the Black Desert Resort Red Rock Open will also be featured on other FOX networks. Quarterfinal men’s and women’s doubles action will be broadcast live on Fox Sports 2 on Friday, and Saturday’s best semifinal matches will be replayed on Fox Sports 1 on Saturday evening. This expanded television coverage signifies the growing mainstream appeal of professional pickleball.

Saturday Semifinal Showdown! PPA Tour Revamps Open Format Starting Now

The Black Desert Resort Red Rock Open, along with the following Veolia North Carolina Open, will test a new format for PPA Opens. Under this revised structure, all semifinal matches will be played on Saturday, aligning the format with PPA Cups and Slams. This change aims to create a more concentrated and exciting weekend of high-stakes matches for both players and viewers.

30 Days to Level Up! Koszuta's Pickleball Challenge Promises 3.5 to 4.0 Transformation

Kyle Koszuta has announced a 30-day pickleball challenge starting in April, aimed at helping players improve their skill level from 3.5 to 4.0. Interested players can comment “challenge” on his Instagram post to receive more information. Koszuta believes that many players plateau due to a lack of guidance and accountability, and his program will provide a structured plan and support from his team at the Pickleball School to help players break through barriers.

Serve Smart, Smash Stronger! 5 Singles Pickleball Secrets Revealed

Curtis recently shared five essential strategies for improving singles pickleball in a video. These strategies include serving closer to the middle line for better court coverage, targeting the opponent’s backhand, utilizing angles to move opponents, creating deception in shots, and anticipating the opponent’s shots. Implementing these techniques can significantly enhance a player’s effectiveness and confidence in singles matches.

Dominant Defense! Briones' Paddle Positioning Tip for Pickleball Protection

Jordan Briones recently shared an Instagram tip emphasizing the importance of proper paddle positioning to protect the dominant side when facing fast pickleball shots. He advises players to keep their paddle in front of them in the ready position, avoiding taking it too far back behind the shoulder, which can lead to a late contact point and loss of power. Briones recommends opening the paddle towards the target and using a short, compact swing.

Pickleball Meets Paradise! Malaysian Venue Fuses Sport with Café Chic

Pickle Space, a new pickleball venue in Malaysia, offers a unique concept by combining premium pickleball courts with a full-fledged café. Operated by Mads Group, which also runs the Oh My Belly restaurant chain, the Subang-based facility aims to be a lifestyle hub, integrating fitness with dining in a stylish, Moroccan-inspired setting. The air-conditioned courts and high-quality café provide a comfortable and inviting experience for players.

Singapore's Only Outdoor Pickleball Extravaganza! PickleGo's Pickle Slam 2025 Announced

PickleGo will host Singapore’s only outdoor pickleball tournament, Pickle Slam 2025, from May 17 to 25, 2025, at the Delta Sports Centre. This Open tournament will feature a wide range of categories, including Men’s Doubles, Women’s Doubles, Mixed Doubles, Men’s Singles, and Women’s Singles across different age groups (19+, 35+, and 50+), as well as a Team Event.

Rank Up Under the Sun! Pickle Slam 2025 Offers SPA Points & DUPR Boost

Pickle Slam 2025, Singapore’s only outdoor pickleball tournament, is officially sanctioned by the Singapore Pickleball Association (SPA). Competitors participating in the tournament will have the opportunity to earn SPA ranking points. Additionally, the event will provide a platform for players to raise their DUPR rating, adding another layer of significance for competitive players. Prizes, including cash and hampers, will be awarded to the winners in various categories.

Korea's Calling! World-Class Pickleball Returns with 2025 WPC Korea

South Korea is set to host the prestigious 2025 WPC Korea pickleball tournament from June 5 to 8, 2025, at the Seogwipo Tennis Center in Jeju-do. Part of the esteemed World Pickleball Championship (WPC) Series, this Tier Level 3 tournament organized by Pickleball Global is expected to attract top talent from around the world. Participants will have the opportunity to compete in a world-class setting and earn valuable Global Pickleball Ranking (GPR) points.

Global Glory on Jeju Island! Top Talent to Clash at WPC Korea

The 2025 WPC Korea, held in Seogwipo-si, Jeju-do, South Korea, is anticipated to draw top pickleball talent from across the globe. As part of the World Pickleball Championship Series, this tournament offers players of all ages and skill levels a chance to compete in a premier international event and showcase their abilities. Registration for the tournament is open until May 24, 2025.

Taiwan's Star Returns Home! Zoey Wang Joins JOOLA Legends Tour in Asia

Zoey Wang, a 22-year-old professional pickleball player from Taiwan, is participating in the 2025 JOOLA Pickleball Legends Tour in Vietnam and China this week. This trip is particularly special for Wang, who turned pro last year and now competes on the PPA Tour in the United States. She is honoured to join fellow JOOLA pros and tennis legends Andre Agassi and Steffi Graf to promote pickleball in Asia.

Agassi & Graf Go Pickleball! Tennis Titans Join JOOLA Tour to Grow the Game in Asia

Tennis legends Andre Agassi and Steffi Graf are part of the 2025 JOOLA Pickleball Legends Tour visiting Vietnam and China. They are joining JOOLA signature pros to participate in athlete-led clinics, exhibitions, and product demonstrations. The tour aims to introduce the Agassi Pro and JOOLA Pro IV paddles and promote the sport of pickleball to local communities in Asia. Wang's mother, a former tennis player and a big fan of Agassi and Graf, will meet her in Shanghai.

Georgia Goes Pop-Up for Pickleball! Month-Long Mania Kicks Off in Alpharetta

Alpharetta, Georgia, is hosting “National Pickleball Month Pop-Up Pickleball” throughout April 2025 at Webb Bridge Park Road. Organized by Sandy Bishop, this month-long event offers players of all skill levels the opportunity to engage in recreational games and skill development. Pop-up pickleball courts will be available, providing a flexible schedule for participants to play at their convenience and promote an active lifestyle.

WPBL's Woman in Command! Whitby-Coles Named COO to Drive Pickleball Growth

The World Pickleball League (WPBL) has appointed Charlotte Whitby-Coles as its Chief Operating Officer (COO). Whitby-Coles previously played a crucial role in WPBL’s inaugural season, managing player relations and operations. In her new role, she will oversee strategy, production, and execution to further the league's growth. WPBL CEO Gaurav Natekar praised her leadership and her commitment to increasing women’s representation in the sport.

Sarawak's Bold Bid! Aiming to Be Malaysia's Pickleball Powerhouse with New Tournament & Youth Drive

Sarawak is intensifying its efforts to become Malaysia’s leading pickleball hub, with Bandar Kuching Member of Parliament Kelvin Yii Lee Wuen spearheading the initiative. Yii plans to organize a large-scale pickleball tournament in Kuching this August and has launched free training sessions for young players to introduce them to the sport. Sarawak has a historical connection to pickleball in Malaysia, as the sport first arrived in the country through Miri.