BY KAREN MITCHELL
Not yet six months have passed since the unification of the International Pickleball Federation (IFP) and the World Pickleball Federation (WPF), marking the birth of a truly Unified World Pickleball Federation. Following thoughtful discussions, the Board unanimously agreed to retain the name World Pickleball Federation, complemented by a new tagline beneath the logo: “Unified with IFP – Stronger Together.”
To ensure stability and continuity, the WPF Board elected to uphold the bylaws approved by the membership in 2023. Under these bylaws, the first round of director elections for the unified federation was successfully conducted, establishing a strong and transparent foundation for future governance.
Governance, Committees, and the IOC Pathway
In its early weeks, the newly formed Board launched several strategic committees to guide policy development, operational standards, and international alignment. These committees play a critical role in supporting WPF’s ongoing application to the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and in strengthening the federation’s global governance framework.
This structured and committee-led approach reflects WPF’s commitment to meeting international best practices and IOC expectations, while ensuring member nations have a voice in shaping the future of the sport.
Advancing Global Unity: Collaboration with GPF
In a major step toward long-term unity in pickleball, WPF and the Global Pickleball Federation (GPF) announced the formation of a joint task force in December. The shared objective is clear: to establish a single, unified international governing body for pickleball.
The task force has already agreed on a roadmap, and both organisations remain optimistic as they work collaboratively toward alignment that benefits athletes, national federations, and the global pickleball community.
Sanctioning Milestones and Growing Events
WPF has developed a draft sanctioning policy and recently celebrated the successful sanctioning of its first two international events:
Pickleball Champions League Asia (PCL Asia)
Created by Steve Kuhn, PCL Asia has completed two dynamic seasons and continues to unite top clubs and elite players across the continent. The PCL event will feature its own USD 10,000 prize pool, further extending its international reach.
With growing momentum, a European pilot event is scheduled for February 25 – March 1 in Malaga, held alongside the Pickleball Global European Open.
World Pickleball League (WPBL) – India
Currently underway in Mumbai, this high-energy tournament marks the second WPF-sanctioned event. Building on the success of its inaugural season, the league is positioning India as an emerging global hub for pickleball.
Building the Future of Pickleball in India
The World Pickleball League vision aims to:
· Increase participation across all age groups and integrate pickleball into India’s sporting culture
· Create international competition pathways for Indian athletes
· Inspire the next generation of players and grow a vibrant, connected pickleball ecosystem
This initiative reflects WPF’s broader commitment to developing the sport in key regions worldwide.
Invitation to National Federations
As the World Pickleball Federation advances its application to the International Olympic Committee (IOC), strong and representative global membership is essential. WPF invites national pickleball federations that uphold unity, transparency, and democratic governance to join as members.
WPF membership ensures inclusion in the official IOC submission list and provides a direct voice in shaping international policy, competition pathways, and the Olympic future of pickleball. Register here.
Together, a unified global membership strengthens pickleball’s pathway to Olympic recognition.
Looking Ahead
With strong momentum, strategic partnerships, and a clear commitment to global unity, the World Pickleball Federation continues to advance pickleball worldwide. From governance and policy to events and grassroots development, WPF is laying the foundation for a truly international sport—unified, inclusive, and stronger together.
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