North Carolina PPA drama, MLP Australia coverage, Brazil go big and more - pickleball news

Good morning, pickleballers!

No tournament for me today means a very special treat for you - a rare Saturday roundup of all the world pickleball news.

Now, in case you missed it, we launched the April World Pickleball Magazine this week - you really should get yourself a copy and you can do that by clicking on the cover image below. That'll take you to the page that will tell you everything you need to know about how amazing it is.

Dive into Saturday's World Pickleball Report right away.

North Carolina Open Heats Up: Doubles Semifinals Set Amidst Serve Controversies and Illness

Cary, USA – April 4, 2025 – The Veolia North Carolina Open is underway, with the semifinal matchups for men’s and women’s doubles now determined. In the men’s doubles, No. 1 seeds Federico Staksrud and Hayden Patriquin will face No. 4 seeds Tyson McGuffin and Dekel Bar, while No. 2 seeds Ben Johns and Gabe Tardio will compete against No. 8 seeds Eric Oncins and Dylan Frazier. On the women’s side, No. 1 seeds Anna Leigh Waters and Catherine Parenteau will play No. 4 seeds Lacy Schneemann and Parris Todd, and No. 3 seeds Jorja Johnson and Tyra Black will battle No. 6 seeds Jackie Kawamoto and Jade Kawamoto. Notably, there has been a noticeable absence of a post-match handshake between new Texas Ranchers teammates Christian Alshon and Eric Oncins, raising questions about potential tension between them. Additionally, Ben Johns withdrew from singles competition. Semifinal Saturday matches will be broadcast on Pickleballtv starting at 11 am ET.

Texas Teammates in Trouble? Post-Match Cold Shoulder Fuels Alshon-Oncins MLP Tension

Cary, USA – April 4, 2025 – Following their men’s doubles quarterfinal match at the Veolia North Carolina Open, a noticeably absent post-match handshake between new Texas Ranchers teammates Christian Alshon and Eric Oncins has sparked speculation about potential tension between the pair. Oncins was traded to the Ranchers from the Miami Pickleball Club in early March. Despite Oncins’ recent strong performances, including a mixed doubles victory over Alshon and Catherine Parenteau at the CIBC Texas Open where Alshon reportedly took issue with Oncins’ serve, the lack of customary sportsmanship has raised eyebrows within the pickleball community. This apparent discord within the new team could potentially impact their collaboration as they prepare for the upcoming MLP season, which begins in Orlando on April 24-27.

Semifinal Saturday Showdown: Your Guide to the North Carolina Open's Championship Chase

Cary, USA – April 4, 2025 – Semifinal Saturday at the Veolia North Carolina Open promises a day of thrilling pickleball action, with all matches from the Humana Championship Court being broadcast live on Pickleballtv starting at 11 am ET. The order of play will begin with men’s singles, featuring No. 1 seed Federico Staksrud against No. 13 seed Gabe Tardio, followed by No. 10 seed Roscoe Bellamy versus No. 17 seed Zane Ford. Next, the mixed doubles semifinals will take centre stage. The day will conclude with the highly anticipated men’s and women’s doubles semifinals, showcasing the top teams battling for a spot in Sunday’s championship matches. Fans can catch all the exciting matchups both on-site at Cary Tennis Park and through the Pickleballtv app.

Tweeds Head Cup in Australia creating MLP drama

The MLP Australia Tweed Heads Pickleball Cup delivered thrilling action, as teams battled fiercely for a spot in the quarter-finals.

The Brisbane Breakers showcased their dominance early on, dispatching the Mavericks with convincing scores of 21-12 (Men’s Doubles), 28-26 (Women’s Doubles), and 21-15, 21-18 in Mixed Doubles matches.

Northern Crocs also stamped their authority, overcoming the South East Asia Surge. Despite dropping the Men’s Doubles narrowly (19-21), they secured wins in Women’s Doubles (21-13), Mixed Doubles (22-20), and decisively in Dreambreaker (21-12).

The Asia Aces edged out Gold Coast Glory in an intense encounter. A nail-biting Women’s Doubles saw them prevail 26-24, followed by victories in Men's Doubles (21-19) and Mixed Doubles (22-20). Glory fought back, taking the second Mixed Doubles match 24-22, but it wasn't enough to alter the outcome.

Sydney Smash comfortably defeated the Mavericks, registering commanding wins across Women’s Doubles (21-12), Men’s Doubles (21-14), and Mixed Doubles (21-16), though Mavericks salvaged pride with a 21-18 win in the second Mixed Doubles match.

Bondi Pickleball Club emerged victorious against New Zealand Hustle in a closely contested tie, triumphing in Women’s Doubles (21-10), Mixed Doubles (22-11), and Dreambreaker (21-17), despite Hustle winning Men’s Doubles (21-16) and Mixed Doubles second match (21-18).

Brisbane Breakers continued their momentum against Gold Coast Glory, sealing their quarter-final spot by winning Men’s Doubles (21-14) and both Mixed Doubles matches (21-19, 21-18), overcoming a Women’s Doubles loss (19-21).

Eastern Rush made short work of the Asia Aces, notching straightforward wins in Women’s Doubles (21-15), Men’s Doubles (21-16), and the first Mixed Doubles match (21-16). However, Aces showed resilience to capture the final Mixed Doubles match (24-22).

Northern Crocs displayed sheer dominance against the Western Vipers with decisive victories in Women's Doubles (21-11), Men's Doubles (21-10), and Mixed Doubles (21-18, 23-21), comfortably advancing to the quarter-finals.

The Southern Stars produced a dramatic comeback against Eastern Rush. After narrowly clinching the Men’s Doubles (21-19) and losing the Women's Doubles (17-21) and first Mixed Doubles (11-21), they roared back to win the second Mixed Doubles (21-16) and secured victory in a thrilling Dreambreaker (21-16).

Sydney Smash also faced stiff resistance from New Zealand Hustle, initially losing the Men’s Doubles (13-21) and Women’s Doubles (20-22). However, they turned it around spectacularly, winning both Mixed Doubles matches (21-19, 22-20) and dominating the Dreambreaker (21-13).

The quarter-finals are now set and promise exciting matchups:

• Brisbane Breakers vs. New Zealand Hustle

• Northern Crocs vs. Asia Aces

• Bondi Pickleball Club vs. Eastern Rush

• Southern Stars vs. Sydney Smash

Excitement and anticipation continue to build as these teams chase glory at the Tweed Heads Pickleball Cup.

Calgary's Indoor Pickleball Desert: Northwest Players Left Out in the Cold

Calgary, Canada – April 4, 2025 – Residents in northwest Calgary are facing a significant shortage of indoor pickleball court options as the sport’s popularity continues its rapid ascent. Susan To, owner of Fit Kids daycare in the area, laments the scarcity, stating that attempting to book court time at the local YMCA for larger pickleball games is usually futile due to full bookings. “You can’t get anything anywhere and it’s really sad,” she said, also observing that most new pickleball court developments in Calgary are concentrated in the southern part of the city. This lack of indoor facilities presents a challenge, especially as the demand for pickleball is growing among all age groups, including a significant influx of younger players. While the City of Calgary has focused on adapting outdoor tennis courts for pickleball and building dedicated outdoor courts, the shortage of indoor options in the northwest leaves many enthusiasts with limited opportunities to play, particularly during colder months. To hopes that future recreational planning will address this geographical imbalance in pickleball infrastructure.

Game On, Phones Off: Calgary Club Unleashes Next Gen of Pickleball Stars

Calgary, Canada – April 4, 2025 – Recognizing the growing interest in pickleball among young people, the Calgary Pickleball Club has launched a junior program aimed at getting kids active and reducing their screen time. Club president Cat Hackman is passionate about this initiative, which has been made possible through a government grant allowing the club to extend its reach to youths aged eight to 17. The three-week program sees 18 children competing against each other during lessons, many of whom were introduced to the sport by their parents or grandparents, or through school programs. Hackman emphasizes that pickleball is more accessible than badminton and offers a unique opportunity for all ages in a family to play together, dispelling the notion that it is solely a sport for older adults. The club believes that by providing structured programs, they can foster a love for the game in the younger generation and cultivate future pickleball talent in Calgary.

College Champs to Clash with Pickleball's Elite in Unprecedented Pro Showdown

Atlanta, USA – April 2, 2025 – In a historic first for collegiate pickleball, the 2025 Collegiate Pickleball Tour (CPT) champion and runner-up will earn the opportunity to compete against Major League Pickleball (MLP) professionals. This groundbreaking initiative will take place at the MLP’s mid-season tournament in July, offering unprecedented exposure and competition for top college players. Since the inaugural Collegiate National Championship hosted by DUPR in 2022, which saw 17 schools and 151 players, collegiate pickleball has experienced significant growth. Participation is expected to more than triple at this year’s championship. This development underscores the increasing recognition and integration of college-level play within the broader professional pickleball landscape.

Pickleball Uprising: College Nationals Set to Triple in Size

Atlanta, USA – April 2, 2025 – The Collegiate National Championship is poised for a massive surge in participation, with expectations of more than tripling the numbers from its inaugural event in 2022. That first championship saw 17 schools and 151 players compete, while the 2025 edition is anticipated to draw around 750 players. This exponential growth reflects the rapid expansion of collegiate pickleball across the United States, with numerous new school clubs forming in the past year. The increased number of participating schools has also led to a dramatic rise in the overall level of play within the collegiate ranks. This significant increase in participation highlights the burgeoning popularity of pickleball among college students nationwide.

Beyond the Books: Collegiate Pickleball Explodes with 4,000 Players and Counting

Atlanta, USA – April 2, 2025 – Collegiate pickleball is experiencing a period of explosive growth, with more than 200 schools and 4,000 players expected to participate in Collegiate Pickleball Tour (CPT) events in 2025. Backed by the UPA and DUPR, the CPT has evolved into a comprehensive tour featuring campus regionals, super regionals, and showcase events at PPA Tour stops. This formalized structure, along with a $100,000 prize pool for the year, is fueling the expansion of the sport on college campuses. Hunter Aiono, director of collegiate pickleball for the UPA, has witnessed this growth firsthand through the success of super regionals like the one in Georgia, which recently hosted a record 272 players from 25 schools. This widespread participation underscores the increasing integration of pickleball into the collegiate athletic landscape.

From Regionals to Rivalries: College Pickleball's March to National Dominance

Atlanta, USA – April 2, 2025 – The Collegiate Pickleball Tour (CPT) has established a clear pathway for collegiate competition, featuring campus regionals, super regionals, and showcase events at PPA Tour stops. These events provide opportunities for teams to qualify for the national championship and compete for scholarship money. Notably, classic collegiate rivalries, such as Florida vs. Florida State and Texas A&M vs. Texas, are now being showcased on the pickleball court at PPA Tour events, further elevating the profile of the collegiate game. According to UPA’s Hunter Aiono, the vision extends beyond college, aiming to create a clear pathway from junior play through college to professional pickleball. These developments signify the growing importance and visibility of collegiate pickleball within the broader sport.

Building Pickleball's Pipeline: UPA Charts Course from Juniors to Pros

Atlanta, USA – April 2, 2025 – The United Pickleball Association (UPA) is actively working to create a comprehensive development pathway for pickleball players, spanning from youth leagues to the professional ranks. According to Hunter Aiono, the UPA’s director of collegiate pickleball, the “main focus for us is really being able to craft that pathway from a junior in middle school or high school who plays in PPA juniors … and then finds opportunities to go from college to competing in the pros”. The evolution of the Collegiate Pickleball Tour (CPT), with its regional and national championships, along with showcase events at PPA Tour stops, serves as a crucial step in this process. This strategic focus on developing a clear progression aims to ensure a sustainable future for pickleball at all levels.

$40,000 on the Line: College Pickleball's National Championship Promises High Stakes and Historic Wins

Atlanta, USA – April 2, 2025 – The upcoming Collegiate National Championships in Atlanta will feature 64 of the nation’s top collegiate pickleball teams vying for a share of a $40,000 prize pool and the coveted national title. Unlike many other college sports, players can directly win scholarship prize money for their performance in events. This prize structure is considered crucial for the long-term growth and sustainability of college pickleball. Teams will compete in group play followed by a March Madness-style elimination tournament. The high stakes and the opportunity for players to directly earn scholarship funds underscore the increasing significance and competitiveness of collegiate pickleball.

Blue Bloods and Breakouts: Who Will Rule College Pickleball in Atlanta?

Atlanta, USA – April 2, 2025 – As the Collegiate National Championships approach, three programs – UNC, UVA, and Utah Tech – have established themselves as the “blue bloods” of college pickleball, consistently dominating national competitions. Every DUPR Collegiate National Championship final to date has featured at least one of these powerhouse schools. However, the upcoming tournament also features potential “lone star threats” like Jack Munro from Texas, considered by many to be the best collegiate player, who has already achieved professional success. Other teams to watch include the University of Virginia, which captured the national title in 2023. The presence of established powerhouses and rising talents sets the stage for an exciting and potentially history-making tournament in Atlanta.

Mumbai's Women Take Center Court: Champion Priyanka Mehta Leads Exclusive Pickleball Coaching

Mumbai, India – April 4, 2025 – Global Sports is launching exclusive pickleball coaching sessions specifically for women in Mumbai, commencing on April 10. The program will be led by Priyanka Mehta, a decorated national and international pickleball athlete, aiming to help women of all skill levels enhance their game in a supportive training environment. The coaching sessions are open to beginners and intermediate players alike, focusing on key techniques such as serving, smashing, and court strategy. Sessions will be held across three locations: Lower Parel, Juhu, and Andheri. This initiative is part of a growing effort to encourage greater female participation in pickleball and is expected to foster a strong community of female players while promoting the sport’s expansion in India.

Canada's Pickleball Pilgrimage: The Guelph Open Beckons Players Nationwide with Prize Money on Offer

Guelph, Canada – April 4, 2025 – The Guelph Open Pickleball Tournament is scheduled to take place from June 6 to June 8, 2025, at Real Pickleball Guelph in Ontario. This Pickleball Canada-sanctioned event, part of the True North Pickleball Tour, will feature multiple divisions catering to players of all ages and skill levels. The tournament will use the CTPR system for player rankings, and results will contribute to players’ DUPR ratings. Participants must hold a current Pickleball Canada membership. The open divisions will offer prize money, and all matches will be officiated as much as possible. Events include men’s and women’s doubles in various age groups (50+, 60+, 70+) and mixed doubles (19+, 35+, 50+, 60+, 70+). Registration opened on April 1 and closes on May 31, with a refund policy in place until that date.

Play for Paws: Pickleball Tournament Serves Up Second Annual Fundraiser for Animal Welfare

Riverside, USA – April 4, 2025 – Pickleball players and animal lovers will unite for the second annual Pickleball 4 Paws event on Saturday, May 31, at Riverside. Running from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., the event aims to raise funds to support animals at The Animal Shelter Society. In case of rain, the event will be moved to the Y. In honour of Ms. Liyla, a microchipped feline reunited with her military family, discounted pet microchipping will be offered for $12 (normally $25). The shelter currently houses over 100 animals awaiting adoption, and proceeds from Pickleball 4 Paws will provide crucial resources for their care. Attendees will also have the opportunity to meet adoptable pets and learn about supporting the shelter.

Gujarat Ignites Pickleball Firestorm: Largest State Tournament Crowns Champions and Builds Future Stars

Vadodara, India – April 1, 2025 – History was made in Gujarat as Vadodara hosted the LGT Wealth India Gujarat Masters 2025, the largest state-level pickleball tournament ever held in the region. From March 21 to 23, over 250 players competed across 29 categories, marking a significant milestone for pickleball in India. The event boasted a prize pool exceeding ₹5 lakh, signaling Gujarat’s emergence as a powerhouse in India’s growing pickleball movement. Organized by the Pickleball Association of Gujarat (PAG) under the All India Pickleball Association (AIPA), the tournament saw record-breaking participation and community engagement. Alongside the competition, PAG highlighted its Player Sponsorship Program to support emerging athletes and announced PAG Labs, a high-performance training and mentorship program aimed at elevating Indian pickleball.

Outball SOS: Simple Paddle Shift Could Save Your Transition Game

A new pickleball paddle position strategy is gaining traction as a method to help players avoid hitting outballs in the crucial transition zone. The strategy advises players to adjust their ready position by keeping their paddle lower, near their knees, when moving back from the kitchen line. This adjustment contrasts with the higher ready position typically used at the kitchen line, around chest level. The rationale behind this technique is that when positioned further back on the court, a paddle held too high is more likely to make contact with balls that would otherwise land out of bounds. By adopting this lower ready position in the transition zone, players can gain better control and reduce the frequency of unintentional outball errors, potentially improving their overall defensive play.

Wipe Away Errors: Master the Kitchen Line with This Pickleball Pro's Surprise Speed-Up Secret

April 4, 2025 – Pickleball coach and social media personality Kyle Koszuta recently shared his expert tip for achieving effective speed-ups at the kitchen line without sacrificing control. Koszuta highlighted a common mistake where players take a large backswing and hit with excessive power, often resulting in out-of-control shots. To counter this, he recommends the "windshield wiper" technique, learned from Jim Krimble. This method involves keeping the paddle tip down and in front of the body, using a short, controlled swing. Koszuta emphasizes that shot placement is more crucial than power at the kitchen line. By using the same setup for both dinks and speed-ups with the "windshield wiper" motion, players can maintain an element of surprise and effectively apply pressure on their opponents.

Nevada Parks Bet Big on Pickleball: Million-Dollar Court Makeover Begins April 7

Carson City, USA – April 5, 2025 – Mills Park in Carson City, Nevada, will undergo a $1 million project starting on April 7th to build six new dedicated pickleball courts. According to Carson City Parks, Recreation, and Open Space, Spanish Springs Construction will undertake the project, which is expected to be completed by September 1, 2025. The new pickleball courts will replace existing tennis courts and will feature post-tension concrete surfaces, new nets and posts, an expanded court area, and separation fencing between the courts. This significant investment reflects the growing demand for pickleball facilities in the area. During the construction period, the existing tennis courts and some surrounding areas will be closed to the public for safety. The project is funded by local and federal sources.

Malaysia's Midnight Pickleball: New Outdoor Hub Keeps the Rally Going Till 1 AM

Kota Kemuning, Malaysia – April 2, 2025 – Pickleball enthusiasts in the Klang Valley now have a new go-to destination with the opening of PickleHub @ 25.7, located just outside Kota Kemuning. This brand-new outdoor venue offers daily court access from 8 AM all the way to 1 AM, providing players with unprecedented flexibility to fit games into their schedules. Whether it’s an early morning session, an after-dinner match, or even a late-night rally under the lights, PickleHub caters to all playing preferences. With its strategic location, the facility is easily accessible for players from Shah Alam, Subang, and surrounding areas, aiming to build a stronger and more connected local pickleball community as the sport’s popularity continues to surge across Asia. Courts can be easily booked online.

Baton Rouge Braces for Pro Pickleball Debut: PPA Challenger Series Arrives This Weekend

Baton Rouge, USA – April 5, 2025 – The Pro Pickleball Association (PPA) is bringing its Challenger Series to Baton Rouge, Louisiana, for the first time this weekend. This event will offer fans and athletes the opportunity to witness top-tier professional pickleball competition. The tournament will span three days, featuring singles matches on Friday, gender doubles on Saturday, and mixed doubles on Sunday. Athletes from across the country have registered to compete, and organizers anticipate strong attendance. While player registration is now closed, the public is encouraged to attend and watch the high-level play. Tickets are available starting at $15, and food and drinks will be available at the venue. This debut of the PPA Challenger Series in Baton Rouge highlights the growing reach and popularity of professional pickleball in new regions.

Petrovietnam Serves Up Camaraderie: Pickleball Tournament Celebrates Youth Union Anniversary

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam – March 31, 2025 – The Petrovietnam community celebrated the 94th anniversary of the Ho Chi Minh City Young Communist League with an energetic pickleball tournament. Held on March 16, 2025, the event was organized by the Petrovietnam Youth Union Coordination Group – Ho Chi Minh City and brought together nearly 100 athletes and supporters from various Petrovietnam-affiliated units. The tournament served as a vibrant festival of sport, fostering camaraderie and a sense of unity among the participants. Matches showcased athleticism, strategy, and perseverance, contributing to a competitive yet spirited atmosphere. Organizers emphasized that the event promoted the cultural values of Petrovietnam and inspired a growing interest in fitness and teamwork among staff, supporting both well-being and professional excellence within the organization.

Brumado's Booming with Pickleball: City Set to Serve at Bahia State Championship

Brumado, Brazil – April 2, 2025 – Pickleball is rapidly gaining popularity in Brumado, located in the southwest of Bahia. Introduced to the city in 2022 by Alessandra Câmara, the sport has spread across various age groups. Brumado’s pickleball team is now preparing to compete in the first stage of the Campeonato Baiano de Pickleball in Porto Seguro from April 4-6. The team will participate in singles, mixed doubles, and men’s doubles categories, facing athletes from across the state. Furthermore, Brumado is also set to host the second stage of the Campeonato Baiano de Pickleball between May 16 and 18. This growing enthusiasm is not limited to Brumado; pickleball is on the rise throughout Bahia, with thousands of players. In Brumado, public courts at FADESB, CETIB, and Clube Social offer free access for practice, with equipment available for beginners.

VAR and Millions in Prizes: Brazil's Bold Bet to Become a Pickleball Powerhouse

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil – April 1, 2025 – Pickleball in Brazil is making significant investments to fuel its growth, drawing inspiration from the sport’s booming popularity in the United States. The Liga Supremo de Pickleball’s opening stage in 2025, held in Minas Gerais, became the first event outside North America to utilize video refereeing (VAR), albeit in a testing capacity. The league is also planning to offer over R$ 2 million in prize money throughout the current season. This substantial financial commitment and the adoption of advanced technology like VAR demonstrate a serious effort to elevate the level and visibility of pickleball in Brazil. The Brazilian Pickleball Confederation describes the sport as dynamic, combining elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, played on a smaller court. The sport gained significant traction in the US during the COVID-19 pandemic due to its social distancing-friendly nature.

Next Gen MLP Stars? Keep Your Eye on These Three Tennis-Turned-Pickleball Phenoms

April 4, 2025 – As the Major League Pickleball (MLP) season approaches, three players are being highlighted as potential breakout stars for 2025: Victoria DiMuzio, Mehvish Safdar, and Mya Bui. All three share a strong tennis background, which often translates well to the skills required in pickleball. DiMuzio, drafted by the Southwestern Ontario Brewers in the CNPL, had a successful season with a high win percentage and has now focused on pickleball full-time in Florida. Safdar, who played for the University of Indiana club team and won collegiate championships, signed with the Utah Black Diamonds in the MLP. Bui, a former collegiate tennis player at the University of San Francisco, has already recorded notable wins in PPA events and was drafted by the Miami Pickleball Club. Their athletic backgrounds and promising setups with their respective teams suggest they could be poised for significant breakthroughs in the upcoming MLP season.

Unsportsmanlike Conduct Costs Vietnam Player: National Ban Rocks Pickleball Club

April 1, 2025 – The Vietnam Young Entrepreneurs Pickleball Club has banned athlete Vu Son Tung from all its organized competitions until the end of 2025. The ban stems from an incident of unsportsmanlike conduct during the 2025 National Pickleball Championship held in Ba Ria - Vung Tau. Following a match loss, Son Tung reportedly had a heated confrontation with the referee supervisor over officiating and used inappropriate language after officials declined to remove a disruptive fan. While the organizing committee facilitated a reconciliation where Son Tung admitted his behaviour was out of line, the Vietnam Young Entrepreneurs Pickleball Club decided to impose the ban to underscore its commitment to nurturing a respectful and inclusive pickleball environment as the sport grows rapidly in Vietnam. This decision highlights the importance of upholding values such as fair play and mutual respect within the pickleball community.

Wisconsin Welcomes 30,000 Sq Ft Pickleball Paradise: The Picklr's Bold Expansion

West Allis, USA – April 5, 2025 – The Picklr, a national pickleball franchise, is expanding its presence in Wisconsin with a new 30,000-square-foot indoor facility set to open in the summer of 2025 in West Allis. Located at the former site of a Dunham’s Sports store at 2550 S 108th St., the new club will feature 10 professional-grade pickleball courts, a full-service pro shop, and a private event space. This expansion is led by Murko Capital Group, which includes former Green Bay Packers star Mark Tauscher, and reflects the growing demand for indoor pickleball courts in Wisconsin due to long winters and the sport’s widespread appeal. The Picklr aims to provide a “world-class experience” with all-inclusive memberships and programming for all ages. This new location joins existing Picklr facilities in Green Bay and Menomonee Falls, contributing to the larger trend of pickleball franchise growth across the state.