PodPlay’s $8M Boost, UWPF Olympic Push, Bouchard’s Silver Streak
Good morning, pickleballers!
It's Tuesday and there's quite a lot of pickleball news for you to get stuck into.
So, no messing about.
Here it is!
Spanish Circuit Star Reflects on Epic Title Runs as Barcelona Open Wraps Up
Barcelona, Spain – The 4th stop of the Pickle Pro Tour (PPT) 2025, the Barcelona Open, concluded with finals that delivered unforgettable action and crowned new champions. The tournament demonstrated its global appeal by featuring players from up to 13 different countries, with six different nationalities represented in the finals.
Highlights included the top points in the Men's Singles, featuring Pep Canyadell, Ignasi de Rueda, and Mauro García. Pep Canyadell clinched the top spot after a crucial smash point against Ignasi de Rueda in the final's first game. Meanwhile, the Women's Singles saw Sabrina Méndez and Mireia Recasens delivering a recital of spectacular points. Finalists in the Individual category included Sabrina Méndez, Raquel Amaro, Pep Canyadell, and Mauro García.
Spanish player Jesús García Garre, reflecting on the 2025 circuit, shared the surprise of his unexpected title earlier in the season in Málaga. Partnering with David Illescas, García Garre secured the victory following an epic comeback in the second set against Ignasi and Pep. Illescas, described by García Garre as a great friend and more than just a court partner, was instrumental in urging him to train and travel for the RTA circuit in Europe.
García Garre, who transitioned to pickleball after playing professional tennis and padel, credits his sister for introducing him to the sport. He considers Mixed Doubles his favorite discipline due to its novelty compared to other racket sports. While noting that the PPT is crucial for developing the sport in Spain, García Garre hopes the circuit continues to improve next year with a less dense calendar and a central court offering more stable ball bounces. He believes the sport’s popularity in Spain and Europe will surge over the next five years, leading to more clubs, courts, and players.
Sĩ Bội Ngọc Secures MVP Honors and Double Gold at VTV A.O. SMITH Pickleball Open
Hà Nội, Việt Nam – The VTV A.O. SMITH Pickleball Open 2025, which kicked off on October 24 and concluded on October 26, proved to be a resounding success, drawing about 700 elite and amateur athletes to the Happyland Court.
The standout performer of the tournament was Sĩ Bội Ngọc, who earned a double title and was subsequently voted the Most Valuable Player. Ngọc secured victory in the Mixed Doubles Open event alongside her partner Nguyễn Văn Phương, defeating their opponents in the final with scores of 11-3 and 11-5. Her MVP performance was recognized with a VNĐ20 million (US$840) bonus.
The Men's Open Doubles final, initially the most anticipated matchup, ended with an unexpected turn of events. The final was scheduled to feature Trương Vinh Hiển and Đỗ Minh Quân against the world's top six player, Quang Dương, and his brother, Bảo Dương. However, after a thrilling semi-final match, Quang Dương suffered a sprain and was unable to compete, resulting in Hiển and Quân claiming the title effortlessly.
In other competitive categories, Khắc Quý and Nguyễn Hạnh won the Mixed Doubles for the over-35 class, while Thúy Hằng and Lê Thủy were champions of the Women's Doubles over-35s. The Women's Doubles under-35 title went to Tuệ Ngọc and Minh Ngọc, and Hùng Dũng and Đăng Quang won the Men's Doubles over-35s. The Men's Doubles under-35 crown was claimed by Tiến Thịnh and Văn Phúc.
The tournament distributed more than VNĐ1 billion ($38,000) in total prizes. Notably, the event marked the first time the Instant Replay System was applied in Việt Nam to ensure accuracy and fairness. World No. 6 Quang Dương also participated in a charity night, where he auctioned his paddle, which was won by Miss Universe Việt Nam 2024 runner-up Vũ Thuý Quỳnh for VNĐ56 million, contributing to a total of VNĐ188.5 million raised for children with heart diseases.
Georgia Duo Captures $25,000 Grand Prize at The Kitchen Open Atlanta
Atlanta, USA – Up-and-coming Georgia players Luca Mack and Juan Varon secured the biggest win of their careers over the weekend, taking the Open Division gold and the winner-take-all $25,000 grand prize at The Kitchen Open Atlanta tournament. The duo, who train in Georgia but are originally from Germany (Mack) and Columbia (Varon), defeated Matthew Barlow (Nebraska) and Anouar Braham (Atlanta) in a dramatic best-of-five final with scores of 11-6, 3-11, 11-8, 12-10.
The championship match was disrupted by a rain delay of about an hour between games two and three. Mack and Varon had won the first game comfortably, but Barlow and Braham adjusted to play a faster, more aggressive style and handily won Game 2. Mack noted that the rain delay was beneficial, as it helped them slow down their opponents’ momentum and return to their preferred tactical patterns, focusing on dinking and getting all four players to the net line.
For both Mack, a 25-year-old graduate assistant tennis coach at Valdosta State University, and Varon, a 24-year-old tennis coach in Atlanta, the financial prize and exposure are vital steps toward achieving their goal of becoming professional pickleball players. Mack mentioned that the money will significantly help cover the extensive expenses associated with competing in pro tournaments, such as travel, hotels, and entry fees.
Varon, who played tennis at Xavier University of Louisiana, saw the win as validation that he can compete with top players, noting that Barlow and Braham are rated above 6.0 DUPR. His recent improvement is linked to focusing on playing the right side of the court, fitting perfectly with Mack on the left. Varon even showcased his former tennis prowess late in Game 4 by switching his paddle to his left hand to smash a decisive overhead winner. The partners hope this victory will elevate their names outside of the Atlanta community and attract attention from decision-makers in the pro pickleball world.
'Pressure Is a Privilege': Amrita Mukherjee Ready to Bring Home Gold for India at Pickleball World Cup
Kolkata, India – Amrita Mukherjee, a dedicated architect of India’s growing pickleball scene, is preparing to represent the nation in the Women’s Singles category at the 2025 Pickleball World Cup. Mukherjee’s journey is one built on persistence and pride, beginning with her establishment of one of Kolkata’s first pickleball courts and culminating in her selection for the national squad through trials held in Ahmedabad.
For Mukherjee, earning a spot on the Indian team was "surreal," carrying a mixture of pride, gratitude, and responsibility. She is no stranger to global competition, having previously represented India in junior tennis, and views her current opportunity as proof that perseverance pays off.
When addressing the mental demands of the global stage, Mukherjee embraces the concept, stating, "I remind myself that pressure means I'm still in the fight — and that's a privilege.". To manage tough moments, she intends to rely on the guidance of the supremely experienced Team Captain Dhiren Patel and the encouraging Coach Manish Rao. She describes the team environment as a great blend of energy and skill, noting they are a "balanced side".
Looking toward her toughest matchups, Mukherjee eyes the Americans, who globally set the benchmark. She sees facing them not as a matter of fear, but as an opportunity for curiosity and growth. Ultimately, representing the Indian flag adds purpose to her performance, motivating her to fight for her family and the entire Indian pickleball community.
While her immediate goal is to "play brave and go for Gold," Mukherjee maintains a vital long-term vision: to help build a sustainable pickleball ecosystem in India that supports players, coaches, and dreamers equally. Her simple yet powerful advice to young girls is to "Just start. Be curious, be fearless, and believe that your story belongs on the court too".
Montreal Lions Secure Louis-Charles Amyot in Bid for CNPL 'Threepeat'
Montreal, Canada – The defending Canadian National Pickleball League (CNPL) champions, the Montreal Lions, are wasting no time reinforcing their roster, officially announcing the re-signing of star player Louis-Charles Amyot for the upcoming C4 season.
Amyot was a pivotal figure in securing the Lions’ championship banners in both 2024 and 2025, making him a critical component in the team's hunt for a historic threepeat. Known for his trademark composure, precision, and all-court versatility, Amyot is one of the league’s most reliable competitors, especially celebrated for his ability to deliver under pressure during clutch playoff moments.
Team captain Ernesto Fajardo emphasized the value of the re-signing, saying, “Louis-Charles is the kind of player every coach wants.”. Fajardo highlighted Amyot’s leadership, consistency, and deep understanding of the game as factors that instill confidence in the team as they prepare their title defense.
With Amyot locked in, the Lions continue to build on the championship foundation that established them as the class of the league last season. The blend of experience and chemistry in the Montreal squad promises to make them one of the toughest teams to defeat as the highly anticipated C4 season approaches. Both Amyot and Fajardo are expected to be right at the heart of the championship chase. The CNPL continues to feature high-level competition, having recently seen players like Christina Chin, Lucas Wong, Wesley Gabrielsen, and Brad Chapman drafted for the 2025 season.
Tennis Star Eugenie Bouchard Finds New Competitive Fire, Clinches Back-to-Back PPA Silver Medals
Montreal, Canada – Former Canadian tennis sensation Eugenie Bouchard has successfully transitioned into professional pickleball, recently securing back-to-back silver medals that mark an impressive early run in her new career. Following her retirement from professional tennis after the 2025 Canadian Open, Bouchard has quickly proven that her athletic prowess translates powerfully to the pickleball court.
Bouchard, currently ranked No. 11 in singles, made a significant statement at the Rate Vegas Cup, presented by Holland America, where she secured a critical semifinal win over No. 2 Kate Fahey. She also bested Catherine Parenteau and Jorja Johnson in earlier rounds. Her formidable streak, however, was halted in the gold medal match by Anna Leigh Waters, the dominant No. 1 player who holds top rankings across singles, doubles, and mixed doubles. Waters, 18, has clinched over 150 gold medals and 37 triple crowns across the PPA Tour and Major League Pickleball.
This success followed a strong showing at the Pickleball Central Sacramento Vintage Open held from September 24 to 28, 2025, where she also reached the title match before ultimately losing to Fahey. Her wins there included defeating Lea Jansen in the semifinal, Brooke Buckner in the quarterfinals, and Layne Sleeth in the round of 16.
Expressing her satisfaction, the Montreal native shared on Instagram, “2nd silver in as many weeks, I’ll take it!!”.
Bouchard, who only began her professional pickleball career in 2024, reflects positively on the journey and the steep learning curve. When facing top-ranked players like Waters, she adopts an underdog mentality, focusing on playing aggressively and swinging freely because she has "nothing to lose". She admitted to a humbling start, recalling that after her first-ever singles point, she didn't even realize she had to retrieve the ball. Despite the learning curve, she is proud of her rapid improvement while acknowledging there is still a long way to go.
London Smash Locks Down ‘Deadliest Mixed Duo’ for Highly Anticipated CNPL C4 Season
London, Canada – The London Smash are setting an aggressive tone for the highly competitive Canadian National Pickleball League (CNPL) C4 season by re-signing core veterans Ryan Torresin and Jessica Kawamoto. The pair is known throughout the league as the "deadliest mixed duo in CNPL history," and their return ensures the Smash keep their central structure intact.
Torresin, recognized as one of the CNPL’s most steady and strategic players, will be a key figure in the men’s rotation. Known for his court IQ, control, and ability to remain calm under pressure, Torresin provides essential leadership and poise for a team consistently vying for the playoffs.
On the women’s side, Kawamoto re-signs after a breakout 2025 season that established her as one of the league’s most dynamic and dependable players. Her quick reflexes and fearless net play proved pivotal in securing success for London during tight matches, promising even greater impact in the upcoming season.
Smash owner Ed Sater praised the re-signings, asserting that Torresin and Kawamoto represent the core values of the organization: "grit, teamwork, and consistency.". Sater added that securing the two veterans, who have been pillars of the team’s culture, is a "huge win" for the organization. With two crucial components locked in, London Smash is preparing for what is shaping up to be the most competitive season in CNPL history.
UK's Pickle Bros Push European Pickleball to New Heights, Infrastructure Boom Expected
London, United Kingdom – Daniel Obden, one half of the Pickle Bros UK, shared insights on the rapid expansion of pickleball across Europe, forecasting a massive boom in the coming years. Daniel and his partner Adam (who was unavailable after the birth of his first child), both tennis coaches by background, discovered pickleball while attending a class at the Woman Rink in Central Park, New York. They immediately realized they had to bring the coaching and influence aspects back to the UK.
Initially, European infrastructure lagged behind the United States. The Pickle Bros often had to use tape to create courts for their coaching sessions, noting that it takes a lot of time and is a "pain". However, adoption is rapidly accelerating: Daniel recently confirmed that eight dedicated courts are now installed at their local tennis center, marking a significant start to solving the infrastructure deficit.
The growth is fueled by the sport’s core values: inclusivity, social interaction, and fun. Daniel noted that England Pickleball is actively driving the sport, ensuring that everyone loves a "cheeky drink afterwards" while still fostering high-level competitive play. He believes pickleball serves as an excellent introductory model or "bridge" for players to later transition into padel or tennis, due to its accessibility. The growth of youth pickleball is also anticipated, as the game is easy to pick up and serves as a fun family activity.
The UK’s competitive level is rising quickly, with the English team performing exceptionally well in the Euros, and the community is “coming for” the US, which currently sets the benchmark. The growth mirrors a global phenomenon, with pickleball taking grip everywhere from Thailand and Vietnam to South America and Canada. Daniel also reflected on the Pickle Bros’ commitment to media content, which blends lighthearted humor with educational instruction. The team has even held a world record for the longest-ever doubles pickleball match—a grueling 36-hour event held in Central London, though the record has since been beaten.
PodPlay Secures $8 Million Funding Round to Deliver 'Frictionless' Pickleball Globally
Charlotte, USA – PodPlay Technologies, the company aiming to create a "frictionless pickleball experience," announced it has secured an $8 million Series A funding round led by Frontier Growth. This major capital injection follows a year of dramatic growth where the seamless court-booking app tripled its revenue and surpassed one million users across 200 locations.
PodPlay's full-stack platform is designed to eliminate hassles for both club owners and club-goers, integrating reservations, payments, events, memberships, and even 24/7 remote monitoring. CEO Max Kogler stated that the technology allows venue owners to concentrate on community and experience while the platform handles the rest. Clubs utilizing PodPlay have already reduced labor costs by up to 66%.
The company began as PingPod, an autonomous table tennis concept in Manhattan that thrived by using technology to manage staffing and location access. By mid-2023, the surging popularity of pickleball led them to partner with prominent operators like CityPickle. Today, major operators like Pickleball Kingdom, Performance Pickleball, SPF, and St. Pete Athletic utilize the technology.
A major draw of the platform is its proprietary on-court technology, including digital scoreboards, interactive entertainment, and video replays. The instant replay functionality has been especially popular, having been used over a million times to capture epic rallies and signature shots. The Dink and PodPlay have teamed up to launch ClipTHAT, a content series showcasing the best moments from recreational players across the nation.
Dave Pandullo, Partner at Frontier Growth, highlighted the "exceptional level of customer passion" for PodPlay, underscoring the opportunity to replace fragmented, dated tools with a modern, integrated platform built specifically for participatory sports. With the new funding, PodPlay plans to accelerate product innovation, expand its engineering, sales, and customer-success teams, and bring the platform to thousands of venues worldwide.
UWPF Pushes for Unity and Governance as Pathway to Pickleball Olympic Recognition
Rome, Italy – The Unified World Pickleball Federation (UWPF) has issued a statement welcoming the ongoing dialogue regarding the sport’s potential inclusion in the Olympic Games. The UWPF Board affirmed its commitment to pursuing Olympic recognition and stands ready to engage in constructive discussions with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and future host nations.
UWPF recognizes that achieving Olympic status necessitates the existence of a single, internationally representative governing body. To this end, the federation has already engaged in preliminary discussions with the Global Pickleball Federation (GPF) regarding a potential unification process, and is currently awaiting a formal response. Both UWPF and GPF share the foundational goal of elevating pickleball to the world’s highest sporting stage.
While the UWPF remains optimistic about collaboration, it maintains that true unification must be built upon crucial IOC-compliant governance standards. These necessary standards include democratically elected leadership, transparency and accountability in decision-making, and balanced continental representation designed to prevent dominance by any single country.
Mr. Miguel Montaño Freire, Secretary of UWPF, emphasized that the Olympic pathway requires more than just passion: "it demands unity, credibility, and good governance.". The UWPF is dedicated to ongoing dialogue with GPF and all stakeholders who share the objective of establishing a unified and globally representative international federation, which is essential to carrying pickleball to the Olympics. The upcoming GPF AGM is viewed by UWPF as a positive step toward strengthening democratic governance within the sport.
Collegiate Pickleball Players Petition to Shift Tournament Schedule, Citing Religious Conflicts
Salt Lake City, USA – As collegiate pickleball rapidly expands across the United States, a growing group of student athletes in Utah and worldwide are petitioning major organizing bodies to modify the standard tournament format to avoid scheduling conflicts with religious observance. The petition specifically asks for collegiate events organized by groups like DUPR and the National Collegiate Pickleball Association (NCPA) to move from a Saturday-Sunday format to a Friday-Saturday format, thereby making Sunday a day of rest.
Currently, collegiate pickleball clubs—which are growing rapidly with over 127 participating schools—typically hold elimination brackets and finals on Sunday.
The core of the conflict lies in the religious makeup of Utah, where approximately 60–70% of the population identifies as Mormon (members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints). For Mormons, Sunday is sacred and dedicated to family, religion, and spiritually uplifting activities, with counsel given to avoid "worldly" activities like working, exercising, or playing sports.
Brigham Young University (BYU), a central institution for LDS members, maintains a strict policy against Sunday athletic competition. This policy forces their players, and other religiously strict students, to withdraw or forfeit tournaments, regardless of how far they have advanced.
The petition, which has been signed by athletes, coaches, and fans globally, urges major professional and collegiate pickleball bodies to adopt new schedules. Signers argue that the current scheduling compromises competitive integrity and is unfairly exclusionary, preventing athletes from finishing what they started. They also point out that moving competitions to Friday and Saturday would align with an established precedent set by other collegiate sports and would enhance inclusivity and growth within the sport.