Pro Contracts Restructured, Seoul's Boom, CNPL Finals Set

Good morning, pickleballers!

Another week, indeed a month, disappearing - who can believe it is August tomorrow?!

Plenty of pickleball news for you today - but before that, check out this week's podcast where Gordo and I preview the English Open alongside plenty of other things.

Now, on with today's world pickleball news.

Pro Pickleball Faces Pivotal Contract Restructuring, Shifting to Performance-Based Pay

United States – Professional pickleball is at a significant turning point, a moment deemed even more consequential than the February 2024 merger between the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) and Major League Pickleball (MLP). The PPA Tour is asking players to restructure the final year of their current contracts, spreading compensation over the next three years. Simultaneously, the tour is reintroducing performance-based pay, allowing top athletes to earn more based on their wins rather than just appearances.

This shift aims to establish a healthier and more sustainable financial structure for professional pickleball players. The initial merger, while streamlining the professional scene and reducing bidding wars, exposed fundamental issues with player contracts and salaries. In a rush to secure talent, both the PPA Tour and MLP had offered guaranteed contracts that exceeded the sport's actual revenue, creating an "inflated bubble". Many players, particularly those outside the top 20, were overpaid 3-5 times their actual value during the "gold rush" era of 2022-2023.

The PPA Tour, despite losing tens of millions annually, has honoured its commitments. This move to performance-based compensation is a market correction, rewarding the best players and aiming to increase fan engagement. While guaranteed money previously led some athletes to "coast", restructuring is presented as a privilege, offering players three more years on the sport's most visible stage to win championships, build personal brands, and secure sponsorships. Players who decline the restructuring will still have their existing contracts honoured through 2026. The sport’s boom continues, with growing interest from other racket sports athletes and explosive growth in junior pickleball. This pivotal moment is crucial for setting a sustainable path for pickleball's future as a legitimate global sport.

Seoul Embraces Pickleball Craze as "Evangelist" Patricia Liu Unveils "Pickleball Heaven"

Seoul, South Korea – Author and entrepreneur Patricia Liu, founder of Best of Korea, has embraced pickleball with such fervour that she and her husband now describe themselves as "annoyingly enthusiastic evangelists". Having discovered the sport during the pandemic, they quickly fell in love with its perfect balance of social fun and friendly competition. Liu highlights pickleball's addictive nature, noting its immediate appeal to those familiar with ping pong or tennis, and the relative ease of mastering shots compared to tennis.

While pickleball has surged in popularity in the United States, it is still "relatively new" in South Korea, according to Liu. This observation made her and her husband's discovery of the Seoul Forest Pickleball Community all the more special. This vibrant group, now over a hundred strong, gathers daily for morning and late afternoon matches, fostering a casual and inclusive spirit where age, background, or profession don't matter—only a willingness to rally with good attitude and gear.

The community plays regularly at the Seoul Forest in Seongsu-dong, specifically on converted jokgu (Korean foot volleyball) courts next to the Galleria Foret building. Players enthusiastically chip in to adjust nets and sweep away leaves, ensuring the free-access courts remain tidy and beautiful. The "universal language" of pickleball means even foreigners can drop in and easily join the fun. Liu's sharing of this "pickleball heaven" is expected to welcome even more new members to Seoul's burgeoning pickleball scene.

London, Ontario to Host Canadian National Pickleball League Championship

London, Ontario, Canada – The Canadian National Pickleball League (CNPL) has announced that the highly anticipated CNPL III Championship will return to London, Ontario, on October 4 and 5. The two-day event will be held at Smash Pickleball, the same venue where the CNPL 2025 season began, creating a "full-circle moment" for fans and athletes.

Top professional teams from across Canada will converge to compete in a double-elimination format, battling it out for the coveted national championship title. This championship weekend marks the culmination of the 2025 season, promising thrilling games and intense competition as players who have impressed all year long go head-to-head.

For fans across Canada unable to attend in person, the entire CNPL III Championship will be broadcast live on Game+ Network, ensuring no one misses the action. However, the CNPL encourages enthusiasts to experience the excitement courtside, with tickets currently on sale via Showpass. The league invites everyone to mark their calendars for October 4-5 and secure their spots to witness history unfold. The winners will not only claim the prestigious title but also etch their names into Canadian pickleball history.

Delhi Pickleball Sundowner Breaks Records, Fuels India's Sporting Craze

Delhi, India – The Delhi Pickleball Sundowner 2025 made history by attracting over 1,000 attendees to the Ardee Racquet Club on July 19 and 20, solidifying its place as India’s largest pickleball event to date. Co-hosted by Courtly and Ardee Racquet Club, and powered by Omaxe Group with support from Mahindra Electric, the two-day spectacle saw an impressive participation of over 250 players and 120 teams.

The event also marked a digital milestone, becoming the first pickleball tournament in India to sell over 100 tickets through the District app, with an additional 224 players signing up via the Courtly App. This Sundowner was Courtly’s third successful social event, following earlier editions in Goa and Mumbai, showcasing their commitment to blending technology, top-notch infrastructure, and enjoyable social experiences to foster pickleball’s growth in Asia.

Tanishq Mahendru, Founder of Courtly, hailed the weekend as a "defining moment for the pickleball community in India," emphasising that the sport is rapidly evolving into a "cultural movement". Beyond the competitive matches, the event transformed the club into a vibrant social hub from 4 PM to 11 PM daily, offering gourmet meals, craft food options, creative drinks, and a live DJ. The massive turnout underscores pickleball's surging popularity across India, where it's becoming an integral part of youth culture, bringing people together and making every match more important.

From Lawyer to Pro Athlete: Singapore's Yeo Jih-Shian Achieves Lifelong Dream Through Pickleball

Singapore – Yeo Jih-Shian, a 56-year-old successful lawyer, has defied conventional career paths by achieving a lifelong dream: becoming a professional athlete, all thanks to pickleball. Yeo considers this feat "unique" to pickleball, as it allows older players to excel competitively without requiring the same level of power and speed typically demanded by other sports.

Yeo's transition into professional sports became a reality when he was signed by global pickleball brand Sypik to its professional team. At the time of his signing in June, Yeo was recognised as Singapore's No. 1 men's doubles player with a DUPR rating of 5.148. As a member of Team Sypik, he, along with teammates Pini Lee (57), Ping Boon Chia (40), and Zermaine Lew (25), will receive a monthly allowance, performance bonuses, and reimbursement for travel expenses to international tournaments.

Before discovering pickleball during the COVID-19 pandemic, Yeo had experience in table tennis, badminton, and tennis. Now, his professional journey is set to intensify as Team Sypik prepares to compete in the PPA Tour Asia, which includes upcoming stops in Hong Kong (August 21-24), Japan (August 26-31), and Vietnam (September 4-7). For Yeo Jih-Shian, this gruelling schedule is a welcome challenge, as he continues to live out his once-unreachable dream.

Rising Star Emilia Schmidt Dominates APP Next Gen with Third Consecutive Title

Kansas City, Missouri, United States – Twenty-year-old Emilia Schmidt has cemented her status as one of pickleball’s most promising young talents, winning her third straight APP Next Gen pickleball title in Kansas City, Missouri. Schmidt, who relocated from Australia to the United States to pursue a professional career, showcased her dominance by defeating Brooke Revuelta and Ava Cavataio in the latest event.

This victory follows earlier triumphs in San Antonio in February and St. Louis in July, marking a remarkable three-peat for the young Australian. Her consistent strong performances highlight not only her skill but also her rapid growth within the sport. Schmidt’s talent was recognised early, as she was the No. 1 overall pick in Major League Pickleball (MLP) Australia’s first draft.

Beyond her singles success, Schmidt also proved her capability in doubles. Teaming up with fellow Australian Danni-Elle Townsend at the APP Newport tournament, the duo reached their first APP final, showcasing their ability to compete effectively against more experienced players. With her impressive winning streak and burgeoning talent, fans and coaches are now closely watching Schmidt, anticipating her imminent breakout as a regular finalist in professional-level competitions. Her move to the U.S. has clearly accelerated her development, positioning her as a future star in the sport.

San Diego to Host "Fairmont Neon Nights" Glow-in-the-Dark Pickleball Party

San Diego, California, United States – The Fairmont Grand Del Mar is set to host a vibrant and unique event: "Fairmont Neon Nights," a glow-in-the-dark pickleball and padel party. Scheduled for Saturday, August 2, from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., this colourful evening promises a blend of racket sports, music, and neon fun.

Attendees are encouraged to dress in their most creative and colourful neon attire for the event, which will feature two challenge pickleball courts, two open-play pickleball courts, and a live ball padel court. A neon costume contest will add to the festive atmosphere, while DJ Sammy Bananas will provide energetic beats throughout the night.

Tickets for "Fairmont Neon Nights" are priced at $65 per person and include one complimentary drink. Limited spots are available, urging early sign-ups for those eager to participate. Held at the luxury Fairmont Grand Del Mar resort, the event exemplifies a creative approach to bringing new life to racket sports. This glow-in-the-dark theme is designed to make pickleball and padel more appealing and inclusive, particularly for younger and social players, by seamlessly blending fitness with entertainment and fostering community connections through sport and music.

Four Seasons Singapore to Host Inaugural Summer Smash Padel and Pickleball Tournaments

Singapore – The Four Seasons Hotel Singapore is poised to host its inaugural Summer Smash, a two-day padel and pickleball tournament, on August 30 and 31, 2025. This premier event will take place on the Hotel’s newly installed outdoor padel and pickleball courts, offering an elegant setting designed to unite racket sports enthusiasts.

The tournament aims to combine spirited competition with a strong sense of community, all underpinned by the renowned world-class service and hospitality of the Four Seasons. Matches will be expertly overseen by Ken Smith, Owner and Director of 40XV, a former ATP and US collegiate player boasting nearly two decades of international playing and coaching experience. Participants will register in pairs, with eight pairs expected to compete in each discipline, playing best-of-three sets with a super tie-break for the third set.

Participation in the Summer Smash requires a registration fee of SGD $98 net per person, which includes access to all matches, fringe activities, light refreshments, and a complimentary goodie bag valued at approximately SGD $200. The goodie bag will feature exclusive Four Seasons Hotel Singapore-branded merchandise, alongside products from sponsors such as Jääde, Clé de Peau Beauté, SUPERnatural+, and local activewear brand Anya Active. Prizes for winners include luxurious stays at other Four Seasons resorts and weekend brunches. Hotel management noted that the event reflects the rapidly growing popularity of padel and pickleball among the millennial generation, highlighting the hotel's commitment to creating a wellness sanctuary that blends athleticism with meaningful connection.

DUPR Coach Ratings to Revolutionise Junior Pickleball, Ensuring Fair Play

United States – A significant advancement for youth pickleball has arrived with the launch of Coach-Assigned DUPR Ratings for players aged 8 to 18. This groundbreaking initiative, a partnership between National Junior Pickleball (NJP) and MyJourney Pickleball (MJP), utilises the My DUPR Coach app to allow certified coaches to officially rate young athletes even before they step onto the court for their first tournament game.

The new system is designed to ensure fair and competitive matches across all NJP events by accurately matching players with others of similar skill levels. Courtney Loughridge, Founder and CEO of National Junior Pickleball, emphasised that this partnership provides families with a reliable method to prepare for events, foster growth in the sport, and connect with a wider community of junior players.

Master DUPR Coaches will assign ratings by reviewing videos of players' games, making tournament planning more precise and efficient. Tito Machado, CEO of DUPR, highlighted this as a "major step forward," offering juniors a clear path to get rated before their initial match and aiding coaches in player development. The system's remote and scalable nature allows coaches to assign ratings to kids anywhere in the world simply by uploading match film. This initiative not only enhances competition but also strengthens the community for young players and their families.

Harsh Mehta Rises to World No. 1 in Men's Doubles Pickleball Rankings

India – The latest Pickleball World Rankings (PWR) for Men’s Doubles have been released, revealing significant shifts at the top, with Harsh Mehta securing the coveted No. 1 spot. Mehta now leads the rankings with an impressive 3,080 PWR points and a DUPR (Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating) of 6.134, a testament to his consistent performance in recent matches.

Close behind him at Rank 2 is Armaan Bhatia, who holds 2,380 PWR points and a higher DUPR of 6.308. While Bhatia demonstrates a superior skill rating, Mehta's consistent victories gave him the edge in overall points. The updated Top 10 also features several rising stars who are making a notable impact, including Divyanshu Kataria (Rank 3), Joey Wild (Rank 4), Aryaan Bhatia (Rank 5), and Aditya Ruhela (Rank 6), among others.

The PWR system awards points based on match results in official events, with higher-level wins yielding more points, while the DUPR rating focuses on a player's current skill level based on match outcomes and opponent ratings. These transparent ranking systems underscore the increasingly competitive nature of men's doubles pickleball and allow fans to follow the sport more closely. The emergence of new talent like Aryaan Bhatia and Aditya Ruhela signals a growing pool of players, indicating that future updates could bring more surprises as athletes continue to battle for top positions.

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"Win-In-6" Drill Promises to Transform Pickleball Doubles Strategy

United States – Pickleball mental coach DJ Howard has unveiled a revolutionary new practice method: the "Win-In-6 Doubles Pickleball" drill. Designed for three players, this innovative game aims to significantly enhance teamwork, aggression, and shot control by simulating real-game pressure within a limited number of shots.

The "Win-In-6" drill operates under standard rally rules with a crucial twist: the returning team must win the point within six shots or fewer. If the returners succeed, they score a point or gain the serve. Conversely, if the serving team can force the rally beyond six return shots without losing the point, they win, even if they don't hit a winner. Howard emphasises that the returning team should play with speed and control, aiming for early aggression, while the serving team focuses on defending and extending rallies.

This dynamic drill compels players to quickly recognise when to attack and when to defend, fostering faster decision-making and composure under pressure. It also provides valuable practice in teamwork, ball placement, and consistency. Howard recommends playing the game to 11 points, mirroring traditional pickleball scoring, to maximise the drill's benefits. The "Win-In-6" drill adds structure and intensity to practice sessions, proving beneficial for both beginners and advanced players looking to sharpen their court awareness and tactical discipline.

DUPR and PlaySight Launch AI Video Ratings, Expanding Pickleball Accessibility

United States – In a significant move set to democratize pickleball ratings, DUPR (Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating) and DUPR Coach have partnered with PlaySight to introduce a new AI video rating system. This innovative collaboration allows players to receive an official DUPR rating simply by uploading a match video, eliminating the need to participate in a league or tournament to get a trusted score.

PlaySight, renowned for its artificial intelligence video technology in sports, is the inaugural official partner in this initiative. Their smart cameras and AI tools will analyse player matches, with DUPR Coaches then assigning ratings based on the video evidence. Tito Machado, CEO of DUPR, highlighted that this initiative is fundamentally about "unlocking access" for players who might not immediately join formal competitions. PlaySight's existing precision video capture and analytics, already utilised by elite athletes and installed in top pickleball venues, make them an ideal partner.

Beyond just ratings, the partnership will also enable players to create highlight videos and replay full matches, with these clips shared across DUPR’s online platforms. This feature aims to enhance player visibility and make it easier for fans to follow their favourite athletes. Both companies envision continued expansion, supporting new ways for players to get rated through AI, whether via a PlaySight SmartCourt, a phone camera, or other devices, ultimately helping more players improve their game regardless of where or how they play. DUPR is recognised as the top global pickleball rating system, collaborating with major organisations like the United Pickleball Association, PPA, and MLP.

High Stakes in Salt Lake City as MLP Regular Season Finale Determines Playoff Berths

Salt Lake City, Utah, United States – The final regular season Major League Pickleball (MLP) event is underway in Salt Lake City, with seven teams battling for crucial playoff positions and seeding. The stakes are exceptionally high, as every match will carry significant playoff implications.

The New Jersey 5s are poised to secure the third seed, needing only four points from their four matches. Meanwhile, the Texas Ranchers (currently 7th place) face a challenging path to avoid the play-in round, requiring 14 points—effectively a 5-0 record with minimal DreamBreaker victories—to overtake the 6th-place LA Mad Drops.

The most intense battle is for the crucial 10th and final playoff spot, currently held by the Miami Pickleball Club (10th place, 19 points). Hot on their heels is the Chicago Slice (11th place, 18 points). Their head-to-head match on Thursday is a must-win for Chicago. Miami holds a slight advantage, playing their last match against Utah after Chicago finishes its schedule, allowing them to know exactly what they need to qualify. The Atlanta Bouncers also have a slim chance, needing around 10 points or a 3-2 record to sneak in. The Orlando Squeeze, holding the 8th seed, aims to climb to 7th, while the hometown Utah Black Diamonds, reinforced by Etta Tuionetoa, will play hard as potential spoilers. All action from The Picklr in Kaysville, Utah, can be followed on Pickleballtv.

Cricket Legend Sunil Gavaskar Invites Cheteshwar Pujara to His Pickleball Team in Playful On-Air Banter

England – During the India vs England Test series, a light-hearted moment unfolded on the Sony Sports Network as Indian cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar playfully invited star batsman Cheteshwar Pujara to join his pickleball team. The on-air exchange provided a glimpse into Gavaskar’s involvement in the rapidly growing sport.

Gavaskar revealed that he is a co-owner of the Dilli Dillwale franchise in the World Pickleball League, alongside his son, Rohan Gavaskar. Upon hearing this, Pujara, who was also part of the broadcast, humorously inquired, "Can you hire me in one of your team?". Gavaskar, quick-witted, responded with a laugh, saying, "Anytime. You make up your mind. Yesterday you were signed by Manchester United. Now you want to be signed by our team. We’ll give you a contract. Don’t worry. If Manchester United can give him a contract, then even I can give him one".

This amusing banter came just ahead of the series decider at The Oval in London. The exchange highlighted the increasing reach of pickleball, even attracting interest and investment from high-profile figures in other sports. Pujara had recently visited Manchester United’s Old Trafford stadium with the Indian cricket team, meeting club figures like Ruben Amorim and Bruno Fernandes.

The Picklr Expands Global Footprint with 50 New Clubs in Australia and New Zealand

Sydney, Australia – The Picklr, a rapidly expanding indoor pickleball franchise, has announced a significant step in its global expansion strategy with plans to open 50 new clubs across Australia and New Zealand. Through a Master Franchise Agreement with TPM Partners Pty Ltd, founded by Robert Pistilli, Anthony Liveris, and Brett Clark, the expansion includes 44 clubs planned for Australia and 6 for New Zealand over the next several years.

The Picklr’s first Australian facility is set to open in Sydney, bringing its premium indoor pickleball experience to one of the world's most dynamic cities. All new clubs will be modelled after The Picklr’s successful U.S. locations, featuring modern aesthetics, world-class amenities, and robust community-driven programming.

Jorge Barragan, CEO of The Picklr, emphasised that both Australia and New Zealand have seen rapidly growing pickleball communities, making them ideal markets for expansion. The new facilities, ranging from 1,500 to 3,000 square meters, will be strategically located near densely populated residential areas. While maintaining core brand offerings, The Picklr Australia and New Zealand will also integrate local providers alongside existing U.S. partners to cater to each community's unique needs. This announcement follows The Picklr's recent expansions into Japan and Canada, with a broader goal of opening over 500 locations worldwide in the coming years, reinforcing pickleball's status as a global movement.

United Pickleball Association Secures $15 Million for Player Incentives, Broadcast Upgrades, and Global Growth

United States – The United Pickleball Association (UPA) recently announced a successful USD $15 million funding round, bringing its total investments to $100 million. This significant capital infusion, largely from existing investors including Dundon Capital, Al Tylis, and SC Holdings, is earmarked for key strategic initiatives aimed at further solidifying pickleball’s professional circuit.

A primary focus for the newly raised funds is to enhance player compensation by introducing more incentive-based pay that directly rewards on-court performance. While emphasising increased incentives, UPA's Chief Strategy Officer Samin Odhwani confirmed that base salaries will remain to ensure players can commit to the sport full-time. This approach is expected to boost competition and enrich the narratives surrounding the sport.

Beyond player compensation, the UPA plans substantial investments in upgrading the broadcast experience with partners like Tennis Channel, Fox, CBS, and ESPN. Improvements include integrating player microphones, adding more cameras, and enhancing equipment to better capture and transfer crowd excitement to viewers. Furthermore, the UPA is committed to international expansion, particularly in the UK and Asia, exploring joint venture partnerships akin to the Formula 1 model. This latest funding round signifies a "stamp of approval" for the UPA's strong revenue growth since the MLP and PPA Tour merger last year, with shareholders "doubling down" on their investment.