Waters Wins 36th Triple Crown, Uspensky Suspended, World Cup Draw
Good morning, pickleballers - it's been a few days since the last update, we might be struggling to get daily news to you for the next week or so.
But, this update is well worth the wait - lots has happened since we last posted.
So, here is the latest pickleball news!
PPA Fasenra Virginia Beach Cup: Waters Secures 36th Triple Crown in Weather-Plagued Dominance
Virginia Beach, USA – The PPA Tour's Fasenra Virginia Beach Cup stretched into Monday due to relentless rain and wind, but nothing could stop Anna Leigh Waters from achieving a historic victory, securing her record-extending 36th career Triple Crown. Waters’ dominance was absolute: she played 35 games across 16 matches and did not drop a single game, defeating her opponents by an overwhelming combined margin of 375-123. In 31 of her 35 games, her opponents failed to reach even seven points.
In women's singles, Waters defeated No. 4 seed Brooke Buckner 12-10, 11-6 on Monday, weathering a chilly final where Buckner had a game point in the opener. Waters and partner Ben Johns continued their reign in mixed doubles, winning their sixth consecutive title and 54th overall, defeating Jorja Johnson and JW Johnson 11-7, 11-3, 11-6 despite rain delays that plagued Championship Sunday. Johns and Gabe Tardio also finished strong in men’s doubles on Monday morning, closing out No. 4 seeds CJ Klinger and JW Johnson (11-3, 12-10, 11-6) in under seven minutes once play resumed, marking their fifth straight title together. Johns and Tardio have now won 25 matches in a row since losing to Klinger and Johnson in May.
The men's singles title went to Chris Haworth, who claimed his first PPA title since signing as an exclusive pro in August. The No. 15 seed overcame Christian Alshon 11-8, 12-10 in a highly contested final, which was also marked by several stoppages due to rain. Meanwhile, in women's doubles, "The Annas"—Anna Leigh Waters and Anna Bright—returned to the winner's circle with a dominating 11-3, 11-1, 11-3 victory over Jorja Johnson and Rachel Rohrabacher. The top seeds averaged an incredible 11-2 scoreline in their 11 games played, proving their determination after falling short in their previous two events. Waters and Johns showed they are not giving up the title of best players in the world anytime soon.
APP AARP Open: Sewing and Munro Claim Double Gold at Fort Lauderdale Headquarters
Fort Lauderdale, USA – The 2025 AARP Open, hosted at The Fort, the global headquarters of the Association of Pickleball Players (APP), concluded with impressive performances, most notably by Sofia Sewing and Jack Munro, who each secured double gold medals in the pro divisions.
Miami native Sofia Sewing earned her second gold alongside fellow South Floridian Shelby Bates in women's pro doubles, winning 11-4, 11-7 against Allison Harris and Christine Maddox. Sewing’s stellar weekend continued in women's pro singles, where she clinched her seventh title of the 2025 season by defeating Bobbi Oshiro 15-7, 14-16, 15-6. Sewing demonstrated resilience, coming back from an early deficit in the semifinals against newcomer and eventual bronze medalist, Seone Mendez.
Jack Munro swept the doubles categories. He teamed up with Will Howells to win men’s pro doubles, defeating Ryler DeHeart and Kyle Koszuta 11-9, 11-5, marking their sixth title together in 2025. In mixed pro doubles, Munro and Megan Fudge secured their fourth title as a duo, battling Bobbi Oshiro and Will Howells in a three-game thriller that ended 11-7, 3-11, 11-9.
Rounding out the pro winners was Ammar Wazir, who captured his third consecutive men’s pro singles title, overcoming Dusty Boyer 14-16, 17-15, 15-4. Wazir credited powerful, deeper serves as key to his victory. The tournament also showcased elite competition in the AARP Champions (50+) and Masters (60+) Pro Divisions. Youssef Bouzidi secured two golds in the Champions Division, while Beth Bellamy and Anna Shirley won their fourth women’s doubles title together in the Masters Division.
Pickleball World Cup 2025: Global Teams Ready to Clash in Florida Showdown
Florida, USA – The 2025 Pickleball World Cup (PWC) draw has set the stage for intense international competition, featuring 17 groups, each comprising four countries. The tournament, which is highly anticipated, will see nations from around the globe vying for the sole champion title.
Group A stands out immediately, pairing the formidable USA team with Argentina, Ukraine, and Belize. Meanwhile, Group F highlights action for North American fans, featuring Canada alongside Samoa, Netherlands, and Germany. Former NHL player Cody Hodgson has already joined the Team Canada effort, serving as an official ambassador and special advisor to the general manager for the upcoming cup in Florida, leveraging his experience in competitive sports.
Other notable groupings include Group C, which features Peru, Romania, Italy, and the Cayman Islands; Group D with Chinese Taipei, France, Armenia, and Bonaire; and Group G, featuring Australia, Slovakia, India, and Costa Rica. The tournament excitement continues through Group Q, which includes Brazil, Portugal, Haiti, and Antigua and Barbuda. With the PWC draw finalised, teams are preparing to compete on the world stage, showcasing the sport's rapid global expansion.
Tokyo, Japan – Soft Tennis Champion Yuta Funemizu Finds New Success in Professional Pickleball
Tokyo, Japan – Yuta Funemizu has secured his place in history as the first Japanese-born player to sign an exclusive contract with the UPA, making him eligible for the PPA Tour and selection in Major League Pickleball (MLP).
Funemizu's remarkable transition to pickleball was sparked unexpectedly during the 2020 pandemic. He recalled feeling helpless when all domestic and international soft tennis tournaments were cancelled shortly after he became a professional soft tennis player. Having already won nearly all major titles in soft tennis, including world championships, Funemizu sought a "new challenge".
An acquaintance introduced him to pickleball, noting its rapid growth in the United States. Funemizu reasoned that his abilities in soft tennis might translate to success in pickleball. He quickly contacted the Japan Pickleball Association, which provided him with the opportunity to consult with the reigning Japan champion, cementing his new career path in the world's fastest-growing racket sport.
Bengaluru Open 2025: Indian Filmmaker Atlee Fuels Pickleball Growth as Bengaluru Jawans Host Inaugural Event
Bengaluru, India – The excitement for pickleball in India is reaching a fever pitch with the announcement of the inaugural Bengaluru Open 2025, set to be the third stop on the professional World Pickleball League (WPL) Tour.
The event is hosted by the Bengaluru Jawans franchise, the reigning champions of WPL Season 1. The Jawans are co-owned by acclaimed filmmaker Mr. Atlee and Mrs. Priya Atlee, alongside Mr. Muhammad Jameel. Atlee is channelling his vision from blockbuster storytelling into promoting sports at the grassroots level, reflecting his dedication to building a vibrant sports culture and inspiring youth participation.
Organised in association with the Karnataka State Pickleball Association (KSPA), the Bengaluru Open 2025 promises to be a spectacular three-day event. It is expected to draw over 250 players from across India and abroad, featuring more than 500 matches across diverse and inclusive categories, ranging from juniors to veterans (50+). The World Pickleball League itself was founded by Arjuna Awardee Gaurav Natekar and Arati Ponnappa Natekar, aiming to bring global recognition to the rapidly growing sport in India.
USA – UPA Suspends Dennis Uspensky for 90 Days Following Egregious Conduct and Cheating Allegations
USA – Professional pickleball player Dennis Uspensky has been hit with a 90-day suspension from all tour-related events by the United Pickleball Association (UPA) following allegations of egregious conduct and cheating.
The disciplinary action was triggered by video footage posted to Instagram, which reportedly depicted Uspensky calling multiple balls out that were clearly in during a match at the Charleston PPA Challenger. The footage also showed Uspensky using highly offensive language and challenging an individual in the crowd to a fight in the parking lot. Armando Ferreira, the player who posted the video, called out Uspensky for previously cheating against him.
Uspensky, a former high-level junior and college tennis player, seemingly doubled down on his intense competitive style in a subsequent Instagram post. While he acknowledged that using offensive language was "out of line" and that he must "own that," he insisted he plays with fire and competes like his life depends on it, dismissing notions of "softness around the game". The suspension means Uspensky will miss upcoming events, including the LT Open starting October 15. Fellow pros, including Dekel Bar and Julian Arnold, publicly supported the disciplinary action.
Toronto, Canada – Former NHL Star Cody Hodgson Transitions to Pickleball ‘Builder’ Role
Toronto, Canada – Cody Hodgson, the former NHL forward who played for the Vancouver Canucks, Buffalo Sabres, and Nashville Predators, has fully embraced pickleball retirement, aiming to become a "builder" of the sport in Canada.
Hodgson's journey began just three years ago in Tennessee, where he fell in love with the game after losing his very first match to a 70-year-old. He immediately recognised the sport’s depth and spent hours playing to compete. Pickleball also played an unexpected role in his attempt to return to hockey in 2024, helping with agility and hand-eye coordination after he medically retired in 2016 due to a rare muscle disorder.
Now back in Canada, Hodgson has invested in the sport, joining the ownership group of the Canadian National Pickleball League’s (CNPL) Southwestern Ontario Brewers. His primary goal is to provide more indoor facilities for players in Canada, stating he wants to help the Brewers get their own home base for exhibitions and community engagement. Hodgson, who continues to play recreationally with hockey friends, enjoys watching the CNPL because the style of play is more accessible and easier to process than top-tier tennis.
Hong Kong, China – TGG Group Launches LIT Sports Global, Pledging to Turn Hong Kong into Pickleball Powerhouse
Hong Kong, China – TGG Group, a private investment firm based in Hong Kong, has launched its new sports arm, LIT Sports Global, with ambitious plans to go "all-in" on pickleball. Marking their first foray into sports, LIT Sports Global aims to transform Hong Kong into a global pickleball powerhouse.
LIT Sports Global has immediately demonstrated its commitment by signing three of Hong Kong's best players—Ryan Lam Chun-hei, Nikita Tang Nok-yiu, and Agnes Fung—to professional contracts. These players will be the initial faces of the company's pickleball push, which also includes the acquisition of the TLP Pickleball Club, with intentions to develop it into a professional team.
TGG Founder Barry Lau outlined the comprehensive strategy, which involves building a state-of-the-art facility, establishing a pickleball academy to nurture future talent, and hosting high-level tournaments like the Greater Bay Area Tour next year and the World Pickleball Championships in Discovery Bay in December. Andre Lajeunesse, Managing Director at TGG Group, stated that pickleball is their "starting whistle," confirming the larger goal of establishing Hong Kong as a powerhouse in the sports world. LIT Sports Global forecasts that approximately 20,000 Hong Kong residents will be playing pickleball by 2027, projecting an annual market value of HKD $150 million to HKD $200 million by 2030.
Ahmedabad, India – Indian Pickleball League Unveils Flaming Logo, Anticipates Tenfold Growth
Ahmedabad, India – The future of professional pickleball in India gained significant momentum with the unveiling of the new logo for the franchise-based Indian Pickleball League (IPBL). The logo, which depicts a pickleball "on fire and in motion," was revealed during the 70th Hyundai Filmfare Awards.
The IPBL is the first national franchise-based league in the country and is a collaboration between the Indian Pickleball Association (IPA) and The Times Group. Vineet Jain, Managing Director of The Times Group, led the unveiling for the league, which is co-organised by the PWR Indian League and Tour Pvt. Ltd.. The IPA, which is recognised by the government's Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, stated that the logo embodies the community's energetic and fast-paced nature.
Jain expressed immense excitement, noting that the IPBL is the only official Indian Pickleball League. He anticipates the sport's growth in India will multiply "more than 10 times" in the coming years. Surprisingly, Jain also highlighted that Gujarat currently leads the nation in the number of pickleball courts. Further details regarding the league’s schedule, venues, team ownership, and player signings are expected to be announced shortly.
Ibiza, Spain – Leonardo DiCaprio Spotted Playing Pickleball, Knee Brace Sparks Concern
Ibiza, Spain – Academy Award-winning actor Leonardo DiCaprio was seen engaging in a game of pickleball this week in Ibiza, but his appearance sparked concern as he was sporting a noticeable black knee brace.
The 50-year-old star of One Battle After Another wore the functional sleeve on his right knee while playing the sport, which combines elements of badminton, tennis, and ping pong. He also had a bandage visible on his thumb.
DiCaprio is known to be a devotee of the rapidly growing sport; he was previously spotted playing with his 27-year-old girlfriend, Italian model Vittoria Ceretti, on a beach in St. Barth in January. Despite the apparent injuries, the Hollywood veteran continues to enjoy the game.
Global – Pickleball Solidifies Status as World’s Fastest-Growing Racket Sport
Global – Pickleball has cemented its position as the world's fastest-growing racket sport, maintaining a significant lead over its closest competitor, padel, in terms of global participation.
Recent reports estimate that pickleball now boasts between 40 and 50 million players worldwide. This figure is considerably higher than padel, which, despite its rapid expansion in Europe and Latin America and being played in over 130 countries, accounts for approximately 30 to 35 million participants. The gap in participation numbers stands at over 5 million players.
The sport’s explosive rise is attributed to its accessibility, simplicity, and high social appeal, flourishing across the United States, Canada, Asia, and Europe. The US remains the hub, recording 19.8 million participants, reflecting a remarkable 45.8% increase since 2023, according to the 2025 Topline Participation Survey by the Sports and Fitness Industry Association (SFIA). In Asia, India is identified as a rising hub, alongside China, Malaysia, and Japan, with the number of active players in India soaring by 300% in just two years, totalling over 70,000 competitors.
Singapore – Sports Arina Set to Open in 2026, Features Noise-Mitigating Pickleball Courts
Singapore – The Fernvale neighbourhood is anticipating the Q1 2026 opening of Sports Arina, a new indoor sports and recreation hub that will feature an innovative, soundproofed pickleball facility.
The decision to implement soundproofing measures, including enclosing the pickleball courts and adding trees around the venue, comes as a direct response to numerous community complaints lodged against local authorities regarding noise and disturbance caused by the sport. This noise problem has already resulted in some town councils reducing play hours, recommending "quiet equipment," or outright banning pickleball on courts designated for other sports.
Located next to Thanggam LRT, Sports Arina will also house futsal and padel courts, a multi-purpose hall, and a children’s training pool. As a privately run venue, Sports Arina is expected to be a premier option for Singapore's growing pickleball community, and its noise-mitigation strategy could establish a template for other private investors planning similar playing venues in the country.
South Florida, USA – The Fort to Unveil World’s First Pickleball Stadium at Grand Opening
South Florida, USA – The Fort, known as South Florida's premier pickleball destination and the APP’s global headquarters, is gearing up for the grand opening of its new sports and entertainment complex on Sunday, October 19th. The complex is set to feature the world’s first dedicated pickleball stadium.
The highly anticipated event begins with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 11:30 a.m., followed by a Family Fun Day running from 1 to 5 p.m.. Guests will be able to enjoy various activities, including pickleball, beach tennis, and water sports.
Highlights of the grand opening include a performance by The Voice winner Adam David and an appearance by former Miami Dolphins player Jarvis Landry. Additionally, attendees will get a preview of the new Florida Room restaurant, which is under the direction of chefs Janine Booth and Jeff McInnis. The celebration is designed for families, offering children’s activities such as a petting zoo, face painting, and games.
USA – The Kitchen, DUPR, and UPA Partner to Power Collegiate Pickleball Tour Expansion
USA – The Collegiate Pickleball Tour, a nationwide series showcasing college talent, is poised for massive expansion following an official partnership announcement between The Kitchen, DUPR, and the United Pickleball Association (UPA). The Kitchen will provide exclusive coverage and promotion for the tour, which is awarding over $100,000 in prize money this year alone.
The tour’s fall series is currently underway, culminating in the 2025 Collegiate World Championship, scheduled for October 31 to November 2 in Farmer’s Branch, Texas. This championship event is expected to draw more than 4,000 players representing over 200 schools, all competing for spots in the 64-team main bracket and a 32-team secondary bracket.
Prize money and scholarships, including $15,000 for the first-place team in the main bracket, are dedicated to funding collegiate programs and fostering the sport’s growth on campuses. Furthermore, the tour is collaborating with the PPA Tour to host Collegiate Showcase matches, offering top college teams national exposure by playing on the same courts as professional players at select PPA Tour stops. The collegiate circuit previously saw success in its spring series, which concluded with Texas defeating TCU in the National Championship, and facilitated a first-of-its-kind crossover allowing collegiate players to compete in the Major League Pickleball Mid-Season Tournament.