Paris Open 2025 Preview, Church Courts & Ronbus Paddle Update
Paris Open Predictions: Star-Studded RTA Tour Event Set to Ignite 'Ville Lumière'!
Paris, France – The Skechers Pickleball Paris Open 2025 is underway, described as being "bigger, better and more star-studded than ever". This premier event is a key stop on the RTA Pickleball Tour, which is making its debut on the Tournated platform for enhanced viewer experience. Pickleball enthusiasts are closely watching as top players compete, with predictions forecasting exciting finals across various categories.
In Men's Singles, the predicted final pits James Chaudry against Ignasi De Rueda, noted for his US-level court coverage and ability to chase down difficult balls. Women's Singles is expected to culminate in a match between former tennis player Thaddea Lock and rising star Karolina Owczarek. Doubles action is also highly anticipated, with Men's Doubles predictions highlighting the pairing of James Chaudry and Pep Canyadell against Ignasi De Rueda and Mauro García. The Women's Doubles final is predicted to feature the return of María Fernandez Costantino alongside Thaddea Lock facing Marta Zając and Mollie Knaggs. Finally, Mixed Doubles could see Hermione Baxter Chinery and James Chaudry challenge Mollie Knaggs and Théo Platel. Keep an eye on players like Italian hopefuls Alberto Seccia and Yuri Syromolotov, the French quartet in Women's Singles, and the returning Platel brothers in Men's Doubles, all looking to make their mark.
Serving Faith and Shots: Churches Embrace Pickleball to Bring Communities Back
United States – Churches across the nation are tapping into the phenomenon of pickleball, the fastest-growing sport in the US, as a unique way to revitalise congregations and build community. With nearly 20 million Americans having played since 2024, churches recognise the potential to connect with neighbours beyond traditional services. By opening their doors and spaces for pickleball, they are sparking new interest and fostering stronger bonds.
Examples range from Adventure Christian Church in Illinois using indoor courts to Willow Creek Community Church hosting events in parking lots. This trend fulfills a "dual dream": promoting physical activity while also encouraging participation in worship. It's a notable shift, as some observe that while people used to gather at coffee shops, now they might "drive through and grab a Starbucks and go play pickleball". The approach isn't without its challenges, however, as experienced players may need to temper their competitive edge to accommodate participants of all skill levels.
Paddle Play Fair: Ronbus Ripple V2 Approved, But Older Models Banned July 1, 2025
United States – USA Pickleball has announced the official approval of the Ripple V2 paddle from Ronbus Corporation, confirming it has successfully met all testing rules. This approval follows complications where earlier versions of the Ripple paddle prototype initially passed testing but subsequent models made for sale failed certification. Ronbus collaborated closely with USA Pickleball to rectify the issues, resulting in the now-approved Ripple V2, which meets USA Pickleball and PBCoR standards and has passed rigorous Accelerated Break In (ABI) testing.
To prevent market confusion and ensure fairness in the sport, USA Pickleball will remove all earlier Ripple paddle models from the approved list effective July 1, 2025. This means players currently using older Ripple paddles will need to switch to an approved version, such as the new V2, by that date. Ronbus has indicated they will offer a "Ripple Refresh program" for eligible members who purchased the Beta Ripple, allowing them to upgrade to the V2 at a reduced price.