Military Tours, Broken Records, MLP predictions, Chinese exchange and Scottish awards
Good morning, pickleballers!
Apologies for the Monday absence - there was absolutely no news worth reporting on. Crazy, right? And then as if to punish me, it's all come flooding in today so strap yourselves in - there's a lot to get through.
But before we dive into all the latest world pickleball news, let's talk about the latest World Pickleball Podcast.
Last week, Gordon Watson and I talked about the week's biggest global pickleball news - which this time out does include ALW and CP parting ways, all the latest from MLP and PPA Australia, our thoughts on Malaysia moving to #3 in the pickleball world and more.
You can find the World Pickleball Podcast on Apple, Spotify and Deezer or you can get your fix immediately below.
This month, we released the latest World Pickleball Magazine, already considered by many (and not just from my pickleball club) to be the most comprehensive magazine for pickleball in the world (what a nice thing to say).
In the April magazine, we have feature interviews with all the people putting on the main pickleball leagues, tournaments and tours in Europe, lots of chat from Asia, a new section with Fail 1st Podcast (one of the best other pickleball podcasts out there) and more. Click below to get your digital copy.
Right, what's been happening in the global pickleball space since we last spoke?
84-Year-Old Pickleball Volunteer Honoured for Inspiring Hundreds, Even Prison Staff
Aberdeenshire, Scotland – April 14, 2025 – Eric Fordyce, an 84-year-old volunteer, has been recognized as volunteer of the year at the recent Aberdeenshire Clubsport awards for his outstanding dedication to delivering pickleball sessions. His remarkable commitment has enabled more than 400 players to get involved in the sport across community sport hub areas in North Aberdeenshire.
Aberdeenshire Clubsport lauded Eric as “an amazing gentleman”. Beyond the usual venues, Eric’s impact has been particularly notable for his work at Peterhead Prison, where he introduced pickleball to the staff. This initiative highlights his passion for making the sport accessible to everyone.
In addition to his award, Eric was also presented with a cake to celebrate his upcoming birthday. His efforts have clearly put pickleball in the spotlight within the Aberdeenshire community. Congratulations were extended to Eric and all those involved in his impactful work.
Teen Pickleball Pro Boosts Military Morale on Global Goodwill Tour
Miami, USA – April 15, 2025 – Nineteen-year-old professional pickleball player Brooke Revuelta from Miami has recently completed a three-week tour aimed at boosting the morale of U.S. troops stationed overseas. Revuelta was the youngest pro athlete selected to join Armed Forces Entertainment’s (AFE) Goodwill Pro Pickleball Military Tour.
During March, Revuelta and three other American pro pickleball players visited 12 U.S. military bases across six countries: Turkey, Kosovo, United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, and Spain. The tour involved coaching, teaching, and hosting clinics for service members, their families, and local community members. Revuelta, who transitioned to professional pickleball after a successful high school tennis career, shared her passion for the sport and created enjoyable moments for the troops.
Coming from a military family, Revuelta expressed that being part of this tour was an absolute honour, providing a firsthand opportunity to show her appreciation for those who serve. The tour also offered the athletes insight into military life.
Malaysia's RM56,400 Pickleball Showdown Promises Thrills and Youth Development
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – April 15, 2025 – Malaysia is set to host one of its largest and most prestigious pickleball tournaments, the AmBank Malaysia Pickleball Championship 2025, boasting a total cash prize pool of RM56,400. Powered by SCORE, this event aims to elevate the sport within the country by combining competitive play with a focus on community and development.
The championship will take place from May 30 to June 1, 2025, at Pickle Nation, the official venue partner. It will be a DUPR event featuring Novice, Intermediate, and Open categories, each including mixed doubles, men’s doubles, and women’s doubles, ensuring an inclusive experience for players of all skill levels.
Beyond the competition, the championship will also feature Youth Coaching Sessions for players aged 8 to 12, demonstrating a commitment to fostering the next generation of Malaysian pickleball stars. Cash prizes and trophies will be awarded in each category, with the Open category winners taking home RM4,000. Interested players can register on a first-come, first-served basis. The AmBank Malaysia Championship 2025 signifies AmBank's dedication to advancing sports, promoting health, inclusivity, and youth engagement in Malaysia.
Baldwin and Phillips Smash Out Skin Cancer in Celebrity Pickleball Charity Event
Burnaby, B.C., Canada – April 13, 2025 – Celebrities Billy Baldwin and Chynna Phillips lent their star power to a good cause on Saturday, joining the Smash Out Skin Cancer Pickleball Tournament. The event, held in Burnaby, British Columbia, was hosted by Melanoma Canada to raise awareness for melanoma prevention and highlight the importance of early detection.
Baldwin and Phillips participated in the tournament, drawing attention to the fight against skin cancer through the increasingly popular sport of pickleball. The event brought together community members and celebrities alike, all united in support of this vital cause. The presence of well-known figures like Baldwin and Phillips helped to amplify the message of melanoma prevention and the work of Melanoma Canada.
The Smash Out Skin Cancer Pickleball Tournament successfully combined a fun and engaging activity with a serious message, leveraging the popularity of pickleball to raise awareness for an important health issue.
Pickleball History Upended? New Book Claims Whidbey Island, Not Bainbridge, Was the True Origin
Bainbridge Island, USA – April 14, 2025 – The long-accepted origin story of pickleball, placing its invention in the summer of 1965 on Bainbridge Island by Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum, is being challenged by a new self-published book. The book, Pickleball!: The Curious History of Pickleball From Its Origins As Picklepong 1959–1963 by Patrick W. Smith, claims the sport actually began years earlier on Whidbey Island.
Smith, who grew up on Whidbey Island, states that his aunt and uncle, Gretchen and Charles “Chuck” Bechtel, introduced him to a backyard game called “Picklepong” or “Pickleball” between 1959 and 1963. He suggests that Pritchard and McCallum, who attended political fundraisers at the Bechtels' home, discovered the game there and later brought it to Bainbridge Island, where they formalized the rules.
This "Bechtel Theory" also proposes a different origin for the name "pickleball," linking it to the Bechtels' habit of serving homemade gherkin pickles and the often "pickled," or intoxicated, state of the players. While the Bainbridge Island origin is supported by a commemorative plaque at the original court, the new claims have been met with scepticism due to a lack of corroborating evidence and the long-standing acceptance of the established history. The Dink, a pickleball news source, is investigating these new claims and plans to interview the author.
Pro Michael Loyd Reveals the Drills and Rest That Level Up His Pickleball Game
USA – April 12, 2025 – Professional pickleball player Michael Loyd has recently shared the key elements contributing to his improved performance and his aim to break into the top 10 in singles. Loyd emphasized the importance of pickleball-specific speed and agility work with his trainer, Ty Woody.
Their training focuses on enhancing his first step and eliminating wasted motion to achieve more efficient footwork on the court. Loyd explained that learning to take fewer and more effective steps has significantly contributed to his game.
Interestingly, Loyd also highlighted the crucial role of rest and recuperation, taking one day off from pickleball each week, typically Sundays. He believes this day off is essential for both physical recovery and mental well-being, allowing him time for other aspects of his life such as church, friends, and relaxation. Loyd underscored the importance of balance in achieving success. With his dedicated training and focus on recovery, many anticipate seeing Loyd compete more frequently on Championship Sunday.
Basketball Dreams Dribble Away, Pickleball Takes Center Court for Filipina Phenom
Manila, Philippines – April 14, 2025 – For Lauren Mercado, a 17-year-old Fil-Am athlete, a change in circumstances led to an unexpected shift in athletic pursuits. Once on track to play in the prestigious Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) basketball circuit, the COVID-19 pandemic brought her hoops journey to a sudden stop. However, this setback paved the way for a new beginning on the pickleball court.
Despite not having a tennis background, Mercado quickly found success in pickleball, securing her first win in 2021, followed by another in 2023. Now, she is channelling her passion to help grow pickleball in the Philippines, touring active lifestyle hubs to teach the basics and inspire others, especially the youth, to try the sport. From running plays as a point guard, Mercado is now hitting precision shots, redefining her athletic journey. Her story demonstrates how a pivot can lead to a new and fulfilling purpose.
Agassi Serves Up Pickleball Fun with Rising Junior Star for National Month
Henderson, USA – April 13, 2025 – Tennis legend Andre Agassi marked National Pickleball Month by hosting the inaugural "Agassi Open Play Day" on Saturday, April 12th, at Life Time Green Valley in Henderson, Nevada. The event brought together pickleball enthusiasts of all ages, including rising junior PPA star Jack Loughridge.
Eleven-year-old Loughridge, a JOOLA athlete, had the memorable opportunity to play and spend time with the eight-time Grand Slam champion. Loughridge described Agassi as "very generous and super funny" and expressed amazement at the connections made through pickleball.
Agassi, who chairs the Life Time Racquet Sports Board, was central to the festivities, hitting the courts with numerous players. Also present were Bahram Akradi, founder and CEO of Life Time, UPA Tour pro Ryan Sherry, and Maroon 5 guitarist James Valentine. The event was part of a nationwide simultaneous open play across Life Time’s pickleball courts to celebrate the growing sport.
MLP Slashes Waiver Periods, Sends Bid Money to Losing Teams in Policy Shift
USA – April 14, 2025 – Major League Pickleball (MLP) has announced a significant update to its waiver policy for the 2025 season, marking the second adjustment since the initial competition rules were revealed. In a move communicated to the media, MLP has implemented two key changes aimed at refining player movement and league dynamics.
Firstly, the number of Premier Level Waiver Periods has been reduced from four to two. This adjustment is intended to address concerns from team sources who felt the previous structure allowed for too many opportunities for teams to lose their 5th and 6th players. The two remaining waiver periods are scheduled for Tuesday, May 6th (after MLP Columbus) and Tuesday, June 10th (after MLP Phoenix).
Secondly, a crucial financial aspect of the waiver process has been altered. Now, waiver bid amounts will be paid directly to the team that loses the claimed player, rather than going to the league itself. This change addresses another concern raised by team sources regarding the destination of these funds. These policy shifts are seen as a step in the right direction by some, aiming to improve the league's overall product quality and team stability.
NPL Unveils Star-Studded Rosters for 2025 Season
Naples, NY, United States – April 14, 2025 – The National Pickleball League (NPL) has announced its official team rosters for the 2025 season of the Champions Pro (age 50+) professional pickleball league. Following the completion of the NPL Draft, 12 teams have finalized their rosters, each comprising at least 14 players with an approximate split between women and men.
The league boasts a lineup of top Champions Pros, including Hall of Famers Jennifer Dawson and Scott Moore, former top tennis professionals Jaime Oncins and Piet Aldrich, Heisman Trophy winner and former NFL quarterback Danny Wuerffel, and league co-founders Beth Bellamy and Rick Witsken. The 2025 season will feature event weekends in two different NPL markets simultaneously for the first time.
The season is set to kick off May 16–18 with matches in Columbus, OH, and Los Angeles, CA. Additional events will take place across the country, culminating in Seattle, WA, in October where the 2025 NPL Champions will be crowned. The NPL, founded in 2022, is dedicated to expanding the reach of pickleball and fostering community engagement.
DUPR 4.0 and Under Picklers Vie for Cash Prizes in Pickleball Vibes Doubles Series
Asia – April 14, 2025 – Pickleball players with a DUPR rating of 4.0 and below have a chance to win cash prizes in a series of doubles tournaments hosted by Pickleball Vibes. Starting on April 20, 2025, the tournaments will take place at the Grand Pickleball Arena.
The series kicks off with mixed doubles for players rated 3.0 and below on April 20th, with the champion taking home RM500. This will be followed by a women’s doubles competition, also for players rated 3.0 and below, on April 27th, offering the same prize of RM500 for the winner.
The series will conclude on May 4, 2025, with a men’s doubles tournament open to players with a DUPR rating of 4.0 and below. The champion of this event will receive a larger prize of RM800. Cash prizes and trophies will be awarded to the top three finishers in each category. Interested players can register online.
Pickleball Bridges Continents as US and Chinese Youth Unite in Shanghai
Shanghai, China – April 15, 2025 – Pickleball is fostering international goodwill as students from the United States and China engage in a vibrant cultural exchange centred around the increasingly popular sport. American students from Montgomery County Public Schools in Maryland arrived in Shanghai last Friday and quickly formed friendships with students from Luwan Senior High School.
The highlight of the exchange was a friendly pickleball competition held on Sunday at a sports centre on the Shanghai Bund. Thirty student-athletes from each country participated in the spirited event. Both Chinese and American students emphasized the communicative and unifying nature of the sport, highlighting how they felt connected despite geographical differences.
Beyond the pickleball court, the visiting American students experienced Chinese culture through city walks, traditional handicraft activities, and tours, including a visit to the China Table Tennis Museum. This initiative echoes the historical role of ping pong in bridging US and China relations, with pickleball now seen as a modern-day sport capable of fostering positive international connections.
MLP 2025 Predictions: Underdog Picked to Shock the League
USA – April 14, 2025 – As the 2025 Major League Pickleball (MLP) season is set to commence on April 24th in Orlando, predictions are swirling about which of the 16 Premier teams will rise to the top. According to a recent preview, while the reigning champions, the Dallas Flash, are considered a favourite, one underdog team is being tipped as a potential shock to the league.
Analyst Jim Kloss highlighted the St. Louis Shock as his pick to win the MLP Cup this year. Despite being outside the very top tier in initial analysis, the Shock, with players like Hayden Patriquin and Anna Bright, are noted for their talent, youth, and strong team chemistry and enthusiasm, factors considered crucial in MLP. Kloss acknowledges that predicting the MLP champion is difficult, but he is anticipating the St. Louis Shock to surprise many and clinch the title. While other teams like D.C. and New Jersey are also strong contenders, the potential for an "underdog" victory adds an exciting element to the upcoming MLP season.
Epic 36-Hour Pickleball Marathon Sets World Record for Charity
Carrollton, USA – April 15, 2025 – Four determined pickleball players in Carrollton, Texas, have etched their names in the Guinness Book of World Records by completing an epic 36-hour marathon playing pickleball. Led by Geneva Olson, the group began their record-breaking match at 6 a.m. on April 13, 2025, and continued playing non-stop until 6 p.m. on April 14, 2025, at Pickler Universe.
This incredible feat surpassed the previous record of 34 hours and 5 minutes, which was set by four pickleball players in the UK. However, the marathon was about more than just setting a world record. The participants aimed to raise money for a noble cause: the Taylor’s Gift Foundation, a nonprofit organization supporting organ and tissue donation and mental health initiatives.
The gruelling effort paid off, with the event successfully raising $18,000 for the foundation. According to Mark Olson, Geneva’s husband, his wife trained diligently to achieve this ambitious goal. Event producer Colby Logan emphasized the unifying power of such extraordinary endeavours.
Texas Longhorns Ace Collegiate Pickleball, Earn MLP Tournament Berth
Atlanta, USA – April 14, 2025 – The University of Texas at Austin pickleball team has emerged victorious at the DUPR Collegiate National Championship, securing their first national title. The No. 4-seeded Longhorns triumphed over Texas Christian University in the final with a decisive 3-1 victory in an MLP-style format, showcasing their dominance throughout the tournament without needing a Dreambreaker.
Key players for the championship-winning team included Jack Munro, Natalie Liu, Eli Trumeter, and Zoeya Kahn. Munro, already a competitor in both PPA Tour and MLP events, played a crucial role in the team's success. Their journey to the top involved victories over Harvard, Baylor, Washington, Utah Tech, and Grand Canyon.
By winning the DUPR Collegiate National Championship, both the University of Texas at Austin and Texas Christian University have earned a coveted invitation to compete in the Major League Pickleball Mid-Season Tournament in Grand Rapids, Michigan, this July. There, they will face off against teams from the Challenger Level, offering a significant opportunity for the collegiate champions to test their skills against professional competition. This achievement highlights the growing talent and competitive spirit within collegiate pickleball.
Top Coach Leigh Waters Unlocks Amateur Potential with Three Key Pickleball Drills
USA – April 13, 2025 – Leigh Waters, renowned as one of the top pickleball coaches, has recently shared three pivotal drill tips aimed at helping amateur players elevate their game. Unlike many pros who frequently share training content, Waters typically keeps her successful strategies private, making her recent insights particularly valuable.
In a recent episode of the Talk Pickle To Me podcast, Waters unveiled drills that even her daughter, the World No. 1 Anna Leigh Waters, incorporates into her training. The first key area is consistency drills, emphasizing the importance of monotonous repetition to build control and mental focus. Secondly, Waters stresses the need to develop weapons, encouraging players to practice shots that can put opponents under pressure. Finally, with the increasing speed of pickleball, Waters highlights the necessity of fast hands, recommending wall drills or rapid-fire practice with a partner.
Waters emphasizes that mastering these three areas – consistency, offensive weapons, and quick reactions – is crucial for amateurs looking to win more matches in today's evolving game.
Teen Entrepreneur Aces the Pickleball Market with Affordable, Quality Paddles
Lincoln, USA – April 14, 2025 – Andreas Katsaounis, a 19-year-old freshman at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, is making waves in the rapidly growing pickleball market with his company, Alpha Omega Pickleball. Observing the high cost of quality pickleball paddles, the Omaha native launched his business at the age of 17.
Katsaounis has designed three high-quality, affordable paddles, along with a training paddle, to cater to players of all levels. His paddles are priced between $100 and $140, significantly less than many premium options on the market.
Driven by a desire to offer more accessible equipment, Katsaounis aims to expand Alpha Omega Pickleball into a national brand, hoping that his company will be top-of-mind for players seeking quality without breaking the bank. His paddles are currently available online and in select stores, with efforts underway to expand to Lincoln retailers.
"Zero Sales?" Malaysian Influencer Slams Pickleball Brand Over Payment Dispute After Viral Video
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – April 13, 2025 – A Malaysian influencer known as @adzimhariz, or Mat Never Zero, has taken to TikTok to publicly criticize a pickleball brand for allegedly breaching their agreement regarding payment for a promotional video. The influencer claims that despite his video garnering significant engagement – 2.2 million views on TikTok and 842,000 on Instagram, totalling 3.3 million engagements – the brand refused to compensate him.
According to the influencer, the pickleball brand argued that the viral video was a "failure" because it supposedly resulted in "zero sales". In his social media post, @adzimhariz expressed his disappointment and questioned the brand's professionalism in not honouring their agreement despite the substantial reach of his content. The public call-out has since gained traction online, highlighting the ongoing challenges and potential disputes that can arise between influencers and brands in the digital marketing landscape.