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Sarah Burr Switches to Franklin, Grafton & PickleCon 2025, Asia Booms

Sarah Burr Switches to Franklin, Grafton & PickleCon 2025, Asia Booms

Welcome to Wednesday, pickleballers.

Before we get going with the pickleball news from the last 24 hours, June's World Pickleball Magazine is OUT NOW.

125 pages of pure pickleball goodness, you really should check it out - we've been told it's easily the best pickleball magazine on the market. Click on the cover below to see what is in this month's issue.

We also have the latest World Pickleball Podcast available to listen to.

In this week's episode, Chris and Gordon are joined by Australian pickleball star Sarah Burr.

They talk PPA and MLP Australia, reviewing the highlights and main talking points from last weekend across the singles, gender and mixed brackets plus the team MLP event where we had a new champion for the first time this season.

The big tournament in Rota, Spain gets mentioned and Sarah talks more about her experiences playing in Dubai, Vietnam and more - whilst giving an exclusive on why she has chosen to move to Franklin moving forwards, plus the dangers of the new breed of super paddle.

If you want to listen to today's world pickleball news deep dive, you can.

 

Here's the latest pickleball news.

Grafton Gears Up: Regional Pickleball Tournament Promises Three Days of Indoor Action in Australia

Grafton, Australia – The PCYC Grafton Pickleball Tournament is set to unite players from across Australia for three days of intense indoor competition from Friday, June 13, to Sunday, June 15, 2025, at PCYC New South Wales Grafton. This sanctioned event, open to all Pickleball Australia members, including those from Pickleball New South Wales, promises a competitive yet friendly environment for athletes of all skill levels.

Participants can register for a maximum of three events, one per day, with an initial fee of $60 for the first event and an additional $10 for each subsequent event. The tournament schedule kicks off on Friday afternoon with singles matches, followed by women’s and men’s doubles on Saturday, and concluding with mixed doubles events on Sunday. All matches will be held on seven indoor pickleball courts, ensuring a controlled environment regardless of weather conditions.

The competition will follow Pickleball Australia’s official rules and feature a round robin format, guaranteeing each player at least three games per event. Games will be played to 15 points (win by two) for groups with five or fewer teams, and to 11 points (win by two) for larger groups. Referees will oversee all medal matches and assist with other games to ensure fair play.

Beyond the courts, the venue will offer a variety of food and drink options, including sandwiches, sausage rolls, and meat pies, keeping players and spectators refreshed throughout the event. Organisers emphasise that the tournament’s significance extends beyond competition; it aims to foster skill development, community spirit, and further grow the sport’s presence in the region by providing opportunities for both new and experienced players. This event stands as a testament to the continuous growth of pickleball as an inclusive sport for all.

Kansas City Unleashes PickleCon 2025: 80+ Courts, Pro Clinics, and Glow-in-the-Dark Play Set to Ignite America's Pickleball Capital

Kansas City, USA – Get ready, pickleball enthusiasts! PickleCon 2025 is set to transform Kansas City into America's pickleball capital from Thursday, August 7, to Sunday, August 10, 2025. This massive indoor event will take over the Kansas City Convention Center, boasting an impressive 80+ courts to accommodate players, coaches, fans, and vendors from across the nation.

Open to all ages and skill levels, PickleCon promises a comprehensive experience, blending serious competition with engaging recreational activities. Attendees can look forward to thrilling tournament matches, as well as opportunities to refine their skills at camps and clinics led by top instructors. The exhibition hall will be a hub for the latest gear, apparel, and accessories from various vendors.

One of the most anticipated highlights of the event is the unique glow-in-the-dark pickleball, offering a fun and memorable experience for participants. Beyond the court, PickleCon provides invaluable opportunities for networking and meeting prominent figures within the pickleball community.

The goal of PickleCon extends beyond just a tournament; it’s designed to bring the pickleball community together in a big way. Organisers aim for PickleCon to become a yearly tradition for pickleball players from all over, helping to grow interest in the sport and bringing national attention to Kansas City. By offering space for fun, learning, and connection, the event underscores pickleball's explosive growth and its unique ability to unite people through sport.

Sydney's Grand Slam Showdown: Australian Pickleball Elite Descend on Blacktown for Fierce Outdoor Competition

Sydney, Australia – The Sydney Grand Slam Pickleball Tournament is poised to ignite fierce competition among Australia’s elite pickleball players from June 13 to June 15, 2025. Hosted by Pickleball Tournaments Australia, this sanctioned event will take place outdoors at the Blacktown Tennis Centre in Stanhope Gardens, Sydney, welcoming all members of Pickleball Australia.

The three-day showdown features a comprehensive schedule: Friday will host men’s singles and skinny singles, Saturday is dedicated to men’s and women’s doubles, and Sunday will crown champions in mixed doubles. Players can enter a maximum of four events, with registration costing $70 for the first event and $30 for each additional entry.

All matches will adhere to official Pickleball Australia rules and follow a round robin format, leading into semifinals and medal matches. Participants are guaranteed at least three matches per event, ensuring a robust, competitive experience. Matches will utilise X40 Franklin balls, and player rankings will be managed through the DUPR system. The tournament director holds full authority to manage entries, skill levels, and make necessary adjustments for weather or other issues.

Beyond the competition, images and videos captured during the event may be used by Pickleball Tournaments Australia or its sponsors on various media platforms, showcasing the growing vibrancy of the sport. As part of the Grand Slam Series 2025, this tournament serves as a pivotal event to highlight the continuous growth of pickleball in Australia, providing a significant platform for both new and experienced players to compete and develop.

Calgary Kicks Off Summer: Outdoor Doubles Tournament Ignites Community Spirit on 14 Courts

Calgary, Canada – The Calgary Pickleball Club successfully launched the summer season with its CPC Summer Kickoff 2025, an exciting one-day outdoor doubles tournament held on Saturday, June 14, 2025. Players gathered at the Oakridge Community Association in Calgary, Alberta, making full use of 14 outdoor courts for a day of spirited competition and community celebration.

Though registration is now closed, the event welcomed participants across various age and skill divisions, from 12-55+ and 55+ age groups, to skill levels ranging from 2.5 to 4.5+. Matches were organised according to USA Pickleball (USAP) International Rules. Lower skill categories (2.5, 3.0, 3.5) competed in a round robin format, playing to 15 points with a two-point win margin. Higher skill levels (4.0, 4.5+) engaged in a double elimination format, with games played to 11 points, win by two.

Medals were awarded to the top three teams in each bracket, recognising their achievements. The tournament had a backup date of Saturday, June 21, 2025, in case of rain, demonstrating thorough planning. The tournament director maintained final authority on any match conflicts or necessary event adjustments, ensuring smooth operation.

The CPC Summer Kickoff 2025 provided Calgary pickleball players with a fantastic opportunity to enjoy the outdoors, connect with fellow athletes, and engage in fair competition. More than just a tournament, this event significantly contributed to skill development and fostering community spirit within the Calgary Pickleball Club. It stands as a prime example of how local organisations are actively building vibrant and active pickleball communities amid the sport's growing popularity.

Ellesmere Port Makes History: Inaugural Pickleball Event Serves Up Mixed Doubles Action and Charity Support

Ellesmere Port, United Kingdom – History was made in Ellesmere Port this past weekend as the area hosted its first-ever pickleball event on Sunday, June 15. The Ellesmere Port sports village, affectionately known as ‘El Porto,’ welcomed 24 local pickleball players for a thrilling mixed doubles extravaganza. Participants battled it out for trophies and prizes, marking a significant milestone for the sport in the region.

Beyond the competitive spirit, the event held a deeper purpose: a raffle was organised with all proceeds benefiting Clatterbridge Charity. This charitable aspect was spearheaded by event organiser Mike Richardson, who received treatment at Clatterbridge when he was diagnosed with an illness in January 2024 and is now in remission. Richardson shared that playing pickleball during his challenging recovery provided him with a crucial sense of purpose, and the local pickleball community's support inspired him to give back. He welcomes any further prize donations for the raffle.

The mixed doubles action ran from 11 am until 4 pm, with each team guaranteed seven matches for an entry fee of £12. Spectators were also welcomed to witness the inaugural event, underscoring the community's growing interest in pickleball.

This pioneering event in Ellesmere Port not only celebrated the sport’s burgeoning popularity but also showcased the strong community ties and charitable spirit within the local pickleball scene. It serves as a testament to how pickleball can be a source of both physical activity and social connection, even inspiring individuals to contribute to important causes.

PPA Tour Asia Kicks Off: Panas Malaysia Open to Launch Inaugural Season in Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – Asia is firmly establishing itself as the "next frontier" for pickleball, and the PPA Tour Asia is leading the charge, commencing its inaugural season with the Panas Malaysia Open from July 3-6 in Kuala Lumpur. This landmark event marks a significant step in the sport's explosive growth across the continent.

Recent research by UPA Asia and YouGov Singapore highlights pickleball's immense potential in the region, revealing that an estimated 1.9 billion people across 12 surveyed territories have heard of the sport. Furthermore, nearly 812 million individuals have played at least once, with a remarkable 282 million playing monthly. The study points to an impressive 60% year-on-year growth rate in these territories, with a staggering 62% of respondents learning about pickleball within the last two years. Notably, Malaysia experienced a 132% surge in pickleball awareness from 2023 to 2024 alone.

Players are drawn to pickleball primarily because it’s fun (35%), promotes physical health (33%), and is easy to pick up (31%). The sport's inherent social and communal nature is also a significant draw, with many playing to engage with family and friends or to make new connections. Approximately 28% of players transitioning to pickleball have prior experience in other racket sports like tennis, badminton, table tennis, or squash.

Kimberly Koh, Managing Director of UPA Asia, expressed strong confidence in the region's trajectory, stating that the growth in Asia could be "just as huge, if not bigger" than in the United States, given Asia's 4.8 billion people and strong history in racket sports. The PPA Tour Asia, along with the upcoming Major League Pickleball Asia in 2026, aims to elevate the sport to its highest level, providing platforms for stars and engaging new audiences across the continent. The Panas Malaysia Open is the crucial first serve in this ambitious vision.

Mumbai Readies for Pickleball Blitz: World Pickleball League Returns in 2026 with Bigger Stars and Global Ambitions

Mumbai, India – The World Pickleball League (WPL) is set to ignite Mumbai once again with its second season, scheduled to run from January 24 to February 8, 2026. Following a highly successful debut, the league is gearing up for an even grander return, promising bigger stars, fresh thrills, and an expanded global spotlight.

The inaugural season, hosted at the Cricket Club of India in Mumbai, drew top players from 14 different countries. It showcased a unique 15-minute match format and utilised advanced technology like Hawk-Eye for accurate decision-making, ensuring fast-paced and exciting games for both players and fans. The league also attracted a host of celebrity team owners, including Swiggy, actor Samantha Ruth Prabhu, director Atlee and Priya, actors Genelia Deshmukh and Riteish Deshmukh, actor Jackky Bhagnani, cricketer Rishabh Pant, and actress Rakul Preet Singh.

Gaurav Natekar, Co-founder and CEO of the World Pickleball League, emphasised that Season 1 was a "statement of intent," proving India's readiness to embrace and lead pickleball's global evolution. He expressed excitement for Season 2, which aims for sharper competition, deeper storytelling, and a stronger connection with the community. The upcoming season will reintroduce top players and add new features to enhance the fan experience. Crucially, the league also plans to focus on growing pickleball at the local level and creating more opportunities for young talent, solidifying its role in promoting the sport across India and worldwide.

Andre Agassi, Tennis Legends Serve Up $20M for 'Ballers' Social Clubs: Pickleball, Padel, and Elevated Dining Set to Revolutionise US Sports Entertainment

Philadelphia, USABallers, a new sports-themed social club, has successfully raised $20 million in Series A funding to expand its presence across the United States. This innovative venture aims to revolutionise sports entertainment by blending racket sports like pickleball and padel with elevated food, drinks, and social experiences. The funding round was co-led by Sharp Alpha and RHC Group and saw investment from big names including former tennis stars Andre Agassi, Kim Clijsters, and Sloane Stephens, alongside pickleball player Connor Garnett and soccer goalkeeper Maarten Paes. David Blitzer, co-owner of the Philadelphia 76ers and New Jersey Devils, also joined the investor group.

Co-founders David Gutstadt and Amanda Potter envision Ballers as a unique destination that fills the gap where people typically leave sports clubs to socialise elsewhere. "Competitive socialising needs entertainment," stated Gutstadt, highlighting the resurgence of racket sports. Amanda Potter confirmed that every Ballers location will feature a comprehensive food and beverage offering, including a "three-meal restaurant, craft cocktails, [and] full bar with unique recipes, elevating the typical pub experience".

The first full location will open in Philadelphia within weeks, housed in the historic Turbine Hall. This flagship club boasts six championship-style pickleball courts, three padel courts, two squash courts, a turf field, golf simulators, and a putting green. With total capital now around $30 million, Ballers plans to open three more locations soon, including Boston's Seaport district this summer (with outdoor courts convertible to rinks in winter), and Los Angeles and Miami by mid-2026. The company aims to launch over 50 sites nationwide within the next seven to ten years, capitalising on a "sustained shift in consumer preferences toward experiences that facilitate social engagement". Memberships will range from $99 to $499 monthly, offering various perks.

'The Flying Pickle' Takes Flight: Social Pickleball Club Pivots to National Franchise, Promising Community Connection Beyond the Courts

USAThe Flying Pickle, a pioneering social pickleball club co-founded by Paul Starita, Nick Peterson, and Susannah Barr, is transitioning into a national franchise model, driven by overwhelming interest from communities nationwide. What began as a single club in 2022, focused on fostering community and fun beyond just gameplay, is now poised for rapid expansion with the expert guidance of franchise law firm Spadea Lignana.

Paul Starita noted that after opening their first club, people from across the country inquired about their unique approach and how they could replicate it in their own towns. Initially planning to open more company-owned locations, the team opted for franchising in 2023 to meet this demand. Spadea Lignana proved instrumental in navigating the complex legal landscape, assisting with the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) and ensuring compliance, as there is "no clear roadmap when it comes to franchising a pickleball concept".

The Flying Pickle distinguishes itself from other clubs by prioritising community, energy, and a vibrant social atmosphere. Starita emphasises, "We’re not just selling access to courts, we’re creating a place where people come to connect. That’s something we’re really proud of". This community-centric philosophy has resonated widely, leading to significant early wins. The company has already secured leases for two new company-owned locations and onboarded four new franchisees within weeks. While committed to growth, The Flying Pickle remains selective, seeking partners who genuinely care about members and are dedicated to building strong local communities. This strategic approach ensures that the brand's core values of fun, fitness, and social connection remain at the forefront as it expands nationwide.

Indian Star Pearl Amalsadiwala Stuns Gujarat Open 2025 with Historic Six-Medal Pickleball Sweep

Gujarat, India – Rising Indian pickleball sensation Pearl Amalsadiwala delivered an extraordinary performance at the Gujarat Open 2025, held from June 5 to 8, securing an astonishing six medals across seven categories. Her dominant display showcased exceptional skill and versatility in both singles and doubles, solidifying her status as one of the tournament's most successful athletes.

Amalsadiwala's medal haul included an impressive three gold medals. She clinched gold in the Pro Women’s Doubles alongside Naomi Amalsadiwala. She also secured gold in Advanced Women’s Doubles with Mihika Yadav and took home another gold in Advanced Mixed Doubles, partnering with Tushar Singh. Demonstrating her all-around prowess, Pearl also earned a silver medal in the Pro Mixed Doubles with Ronav Motiani. Completing her remarkable collection, she won bronze in the Advanced Singles category and another gold in the Split Age Doubles event, playing alongside Priyanka Mehta in both.

Pearl expressed immense satisfaction with her achievement, highlighting the results of dedicated practice and extensive experience across various pickleball formats. The Gujarat Open 2025 provided a crucial platform for her to compete against the country's best players. Her outstanding performance is expected to significantly boost her confidence and visibility within the Indian pickleball scene, positioning her as a strong contender for future national and international events.

MLP Shakes Up Roster: Blockbuster Trade Sends Rafa Hewett to Texas Ranchers, Michael Loyd to California Black Bears in Strategic Power Play

USA – Major League Pickleball (MLP) made headlines on Tuesday with a blockbuster trade that saw the Premier-level Texas Ranchers acquire Rafa Hewett and cash from the Challenger-level California Black Bears in exchange for Michael Loyd. This strategic move is poised to significantly impact both teams as they gear up for crucial upcoming MLP events.

The Texas Ranchers, currently holding an 8-6 record, are looking to strengthen their roster by adding Hewett as their third male option. While Hewett struggled in his only appearance for the California Black Bears at MLP Austin with a 1-9 record, his experience is considered a valuable asset behind Christian Alshon and Eric Oncins. Hewett is slated to make his debut with the Texas Ranchers at the Edward Jones MLP Mid-Season Tournament in Grand Rapids, Michigan, from July 9 to July 13.

Conversely, the California Black Bears, with a 2-3 record, welcome Michael Loyd to their lineup. Loyd, although not a regular starter for the Texas Ranchers, delivered an impressive 2-0 performance in his final match at MLP Daytona, winning both his men’s doubles and mixed doubles matches against the SoCal Hard Eights. His recent strong showing and past experience, including helping the Frisco Pandas (now Nashville Chefs) reach the Challenger level playoffs in 2024, are expected to provide significant momentum. Loyd will immediately join the Black Bears for a challenging two-week stretch, competing in Edward Jones MLP San Clemente and MLP New York. This trade, by infusing both teams with experienced and capable players, is anticipated to be a crucial factor in their future performances.

Avinash Kumar: Picklebay India Tour is a "Game-Changer" for Nation's Rising Pickleball Talent

Mumbai, India – India's No. 8-ranked men’s singles pickleball player, Avinash Kumar, has lauded the Picklebay India Tour as a "fantastic platform" and a "game-changer" for nurturing young talent across the country. The 24-year-old recently secured a silver medal at the Mumbai leg of the tour, underscoring the event’s pivotal role in expanding the sport nationwide.

Avinash Kumar, who also ranks 24th in Asia according to DUPR, highlighted that the Picklebay tour offers aspiring athletes unparalleled opportunities to compete across different states, significantly boosting their visibility. He believes the tournament’s professional format will ensure its continued growth and impact. Kumar's own journey began in Patna, Bihar, transitioning from cricket after discovering pickleball in a newspaper and connecting with Ranjan Gupta, Secretary of the Bihar Pickleball Association. What started as a local interest has now evolved into a full-time career, with Kumar training 5 to 6 hours daily and proudly sponsored by the All India Pickleball Association.

Having represented India in several international tournaments, Kumar observes significant progress in the country's pickleball infrastructure, with courts becoming more accessible, particularly through platforms like Picklebay. He emphasised pickleball's unique appeal, combining elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, making it enjoyable for players aged "8 to 80". Its cost-effectiveness, ease of learning, and organic growth within communities and buildings are further contributing to its popularity. Avinash Kumar passionately encourages younger athletes to view pickleball as a serious professional sport, promising real growth opportunities and international recognition for those who dedicate themselves.

Brooklyn Pickleball Team Hunts MiLP Stars: Pros Lead High-Stakes Tryout for Minor League Roster

Brooklyn, USA – The Brooklyn Pickleball Team (BKPT), a Premier-level Major League Pickleball (MLP) franchise, recently held its inaugural MiLP DUPR 20 Roster tryout in Brooklyn, New York. The high-stakes event, held on June 10 from 8:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. at PKLYN, aimed to unearth top local talent for its Minor League Pickleball (MiLP) roster.

This exclusive tryout welcomed players with a DUPR rating between 4.7 and 6.0, with a $195 entry fee that included official team gear. Only 20 coveted spots were available, ensuring intense competition among participants. A distinguishing feature of the tryout was the direct involvement of BKPT’s professional players, including Dekel Bar, Rachel Rohrabacher, Jackie Kawamoto, Patrick Smith, and Hannah Blatt, alongside Head Coach Kyle McKenzie. These pros were actively present to observe, evaluate, and select athletes, providing an authentic glimpse into the high-level expectations of MiLP events.

Participants were rigorously tested through various drills and live matches, both with and against the BKPT professionals. The tryout’s overarching goal extended beyond mere roster filling; it aimed to establish a program that fosters player development and strengthens community connection. Athletes selected for the MiLP roster will benefit from professional coaching, compete in tournaments, and serve as local ambassadors for the sport. The chosen players are expected to train collectively throughout the summer, striving to earn a spot in the MiLP Nationals, slated for December. This initiative is a core part of BKPT’s mission to build a championship-calibre program from the ground up and promote pickleball throughout the Brooklyn area.

Asia's Pickleball Explosion: New Study Reveals 1.9 Billion Aware, Millions Playing Monthly in Sport's "Next Frontier"

Asia – A groundbreaking research study by UPA Asia and YouGov Singapore has unveiled staggering figures, confirming Asia as the "next frontier for pickleball". The comprehensive online survey, which polled over 14,000 respondents across 12 territories on the continent, reveals a widespread awareness and growing participation in the sport.

Key findings from the study include:

  • An estimated 1.9 billion people across the surveyed territories have heard about pickleball.
  • Close to 812 million people have played the sport at least once, with a remarkable 282 million playing at least once a month.
  • Pickleball in these regions has experienced an explosive 60% year-on-year growth, with 62% of respondents learning about the sport within the last two years.
  • Vietnam and Malaysia showed the highest growth rates in the past year, with awareness in Vietnam surging by 152% and Malaysia by 132% from 2023 to 2024.
  • Vietnam also boasts the highest percentage of its population with pickleball experience at over 37%, followed closely by India at over 31%.
  • India leads in frequent players, with over 178 million individuals playing at least once a month, followed by China (over 60 million) and Vietnam (over 16 million).

Respondents cited fun (35%), physical health (33%), and ease of learning (31%) as the top reasons for picking up a paddle. The social and communal aspects were also significant, with 29% motivated to play a sport their friends and family enjoyed, and 27% seeking to make new friends. Kimberly Koh, Managing Director of UPA Asia, expressed strong confidence that the growth in Asia could be "just as huge, if not bigger" than in the U.S., given Asia's 4.8 billion population and rich history in racket sports. The region is set to host major events, including the inaugural PPA Tour Asia season beginning with the Panas Malaysia Open in July and Major League Pickleball Asia in 2026.

'Le Pickle Club' Serves Up Chic Style: New Fashion Brand Blends French Allure with On-Court Elegance

USA – Twin sisters Sara Brady and Ashley Cornil have launched Le Pickle Club, an innovative pickleball clothing brand that seamlessly blends the sport with chic French-inspired fashion. Born from their shared love for pickleball and a keen eye for style, the brand introduces clean, minimal designs infused with elegance, aiming to empower players to feel confident and stylish on the court.

The sisters, who grew up playing tennis, recognised a distinct gap in fashionable apparel for pickleball compared to the abundance in tennis. This observation sparked the creation of Le Pickle Club, driven by their desire to craft something with "that French, chic, effortless style". For Sara Brady, clothing plays a crucial role in a player's mental state: "if you look and feel good, you’re going to play well".

Le Pickle Club's aesthetic is characterised by a "casual cool," allowing players to express their personality with sophisticated yet understated outfits. Ashley Cornil's personal connection to France, through her marriage to a Frenchman and regular family visits to the South of France, deeply influenced the brand's style, aiming to capture that unique "French allure".

While their initial collection featured bold reds, royal blues, and whites, Le Pickle Club recently unveiled its new line, "La Fleur." This collection introduces a softer, more vintage feel with pastels and delicate floral prints, ideal for spring and summer. Through its thoughtful designs and fashion-forward approach, Le Pickle Club is injecting fresh energy into pickleball apparel, meeting the growing demand for gear that enables players to perform well while looking impeccably stylish.

Unleash American Craftsmanship: Why 'Made in USA' Pickleball Paddles Are Becoming the Choice for Serious Players

USA – In a market largely dominated by overseas manufacturing, a select group of American companies are distinguishing themselves by producing pickleball paddles that meet the stringent "Made in USA" standard, making them increasingly popular among serious players. This designation signifies that all or almost all of the materials and final assembly are completed within the United States, showcasing exceptional craftsmanship and a commitment to local sourcing.

For a paddle to bear the "Made in USA" label, nearly all its components, including carbon fibre, polymer cores, and grips, must be sourced and assembled domestically. While many brands utilise foreign materials, companies like Avoura, Engage, Paddletek, Players Pickleball, Revolin, Selkirk (certain models), Stafford Paddles, Thompson Pickleball, TMPR Paddles (certain models), Vulcan (certain models), and Whisper Paddles are leading the charge in American manufacturing.

Several companies go even further in their commitment to domestic production:

  • Avoura uses almost all U.S.-made parts, with the only exception being the edge guard.
  • Engage crafts nearly all its paddles in the U.S. from domestic materials, with only grips and butt caps sourced from overseas.
  • Paddletek, which has produced over a million paddles since 2010, emphasises using high-quality U.S. materials to ensure peak performance and maintain tight quality control. Curtis Smith, Paddletek President, highlighted the pride in supporting "hardworking people behind the scenes who build our high-performance paddles right here in Michigan".
  • Thompson Pickleball takes full control by making all their paddles in-house, sourcing carbon fiber from Alabama, honeycomb cores from Michigan, and 3D printing their butt caps.

The choice to manufacture paddles in the U.S. offers significant advantages, including enhanced quality control and the support of American jobs and innovation. These pioneering companies demonstrate that top-tier pickleball gear can be designed, sourced, and built entirely within the country.

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