What’s the Score?
The inaugural season of the Pickle Pro Tour in Spain has concluded, establishing a new hierarchy in European pickleball. The season wrap-up highlights the dominance of Catalan star Ignasi de Rueda, who finished as the overall leader in the Men’s Doubles category. However, he wasn’t the only standout; Pep Canyadell proved to be the ultimate multi-threat, securing the number one ranking in both Men’s Singles and Mixed Doubles. The women’s field was equally competitive, with Sabrina Méndez finishing at the summit of the rankings after an unstoppable performance throughout the year.
Hit it deeper!
Ignasi de Rueda’s journey to the top of the doubles ranking was defined by adaptability. He didn’t just win; he won with everyone. His campaign included gold medals in Alcobendas, Barcelona, and Mijas, partnering with French talent Théo Platel and British player Joshua Bright along the way. Despite a semifinal exit in Gran Canaria, his total of 5,340 points was enough to hold off the fierce challenge from the duo of Jesús García and David Illescas. García and Illescas, who finished just 20 points behind, were arguably the most consistent team, reaching five finals in six tournaments and winning three.
Pep Canyadell’s season was a masterclass in versatility. While he finished fourth in Men’s Doubles, his dominance in Singles and Mixed Doubles made him the tour’s most decorated all-around player. His ability to switch gears between formats was highlighted by a gold medal in doubles at Alcobendas (partnering with de Rueda) and a silver in Málaga.
On the women’s side, the rivalry between Sabrina Méndez and Raquel Amaro produced some of the tour’s most viral moments, including a spectacular final in the Women’s Singles that exceeded all expectations. Méndez’s consistency ultimately earned her the top spot, but the narrow margins at the top of all categories suggest that the gap between the pros is closing fast.
The World Pickleball Verdict
The Pickle Pro Tour results confirm that Spain is rapidly becoming a powerhouse in the European pickleball ecosystem. The tight point margins—specifically the scant 20-point gap in Men’s Doubles—indicate a healthy, competitive depth rather than a league dominated by a single untouchable star.
Furthermore, the cross-border partnerships (Spanish players winning with French and British partners) highlight how the European tour is fostering international chemistry. As the tour heads into 2026, the emergence of consistent rivalries, like Méndez vs. Amaro, will be essential for building a spectator fanbase beyond the player community.