Good morning pickleballers – welcome to your Monday World Pickleball Report.
There’s loads of pickleball news from the weekend – big tournaments happening all over the place.
We bring you all the latest in today’s report.
Johns and Tardio Dominate, Clinch Third Consecutive PPA Men’s Doubles Title
Las Vegas, USA – Ben Johns and Gabe Tardio continued their impressive run, asserting dominance by claiming their third consecutive men’s doubles title at the Walgreens Open in Las Vegas on August 31, 2025. The formidable duo overcame No. 3 seeds Christian Alshon and Andrei Daescu in a hard-fought match, winning 10-12, 12-10, 11-3, 11-2.
Alshon and Daescu started strong, winning the first game with effective lob-volleys and kitchen-line attacks. However, Johns and Tardio quickly found their rhythm, making crucial in-game adjustments to counteract their opponents’ strategy. They launched a decisive 9-2 run to take the second game and then cruised to comfortable victories in Games 3 and 4. Tardio played a particularly strong second half, capitalising on Johns’ aggressive third shots.
This victory marks their third straight title together, following previous golds in Bristol and San Clemente earlier this summer. The partnership’s ability to adapt and maintain offensive pressure has been a hallmark of their success. In the bronze medal match, No. 2 seeds Federico Staksrud and Hayden Patriquin defeated No. 10 seeds Eric Oncins and Matt Wright in a close three-game contest, 9-11, 12-10, 11-8.
Johnson and Black Capture Women’s Doubles Gold in Las Vegas Thriller
Las Vegas, USA – Jorja Johnson and Hurricane Tyra Black, the No. 3 seeds, delivered a gold-medal performance at the Walgreens Open in Las Vegas, securing their second women’s doubles title of the season on August 31, 2025. The Dallas Flash teammates outdueled No. 2 seeds Parris Todd and Catherine Parenteau in an intense four-game final, winning 11-7, 11-5, 9-11, 11-9.
Johnson and Black faced an early challenge, trailing 5-7 in the opening game. However, they ignited an incredible 16-point run that not only clinched the first game but also propelled them to a dominant 10-0 lead in the second, effectively seizing control of the match. Despite a resilient effort from Todd and Parenteau, who managed to take the third game, Johnson and Black maintained their composure and sealed the victory in the fourth game on their fifth championship point.
Tyra Black, reflecting on a demanding week, credited the fans for their energizing support. Johnson highlighted their focus, stating that despite a significant semifinal victory against Anna Leigh Waters and Anna Bright (their first-ever loss together), they understood the job wasn’t finished. This triumph marks their first title together since the North Carolina Open in April, solidifying their formidable partnership. In the bronze medal match, Anna Leigh Waters and Anna Bright defeated No. 4 seeds Etta Tuionetoa and Lacy Schneemann 11-8, 11-2.
Christian Claims Third Singles Title of 2025 in Las Vegas Epic
Las Vegas, USA – Kaitlyn Christian once again proved her mettle on the PPA Tour, capturing the women’s singles gold medal at the Las Vegas PPA Tour Open on Sunday, August 31, 2025. This hard-fought victory against top-seeded Kate Fahey, with scores of 9-11, 11-9, 11-9, marks Christian’s third title of the 2025 season.
The championship match was a nail-biting affair. After splitting the first two games, Christian established a significant 9-4 lead in the deciding third game. However, Fahey mounted a stunning comeback, winning five consecutive points to tie the score at 9-9. Demonstrating incredible mental fortitude, Christian regained serve and ultimately closed out the match to secure the coveted title.
A former tennis professional, Christian attributed her success, particularly in singles, to her effective use of drop volleys, a shot she seamlessly transitioned from her tennis career. She emphasised the challenge of closing out a tough competitor like Fahey, highlighting the need for relentless effort on every point. This win not only adds to Christian’s impressive 2025 record but also solidifies her reputation as a mentally tough and skilled contender on the professional pickleball circuit.
Teenage Sensation Goins Claims Second Consecutive PPA Men’s Singles Title
Las Vegas, USA – Seventeen-year-old John Lucian Goins continued his meteoric rise in professional pickleball, capturing his second consecutive men’s singles title on the PPA Tour on August 31, 2025. Goins delivered a stunning performance at the Walgreens Open in Las Vegas, defeating the No. 2 seed, Hunter Johnson, in straight games with scores of 11-4, 11-9.
Johnson had recently surpassed Federico Staksrud to claim the top spot in the PPA men’s singles rankings, but Goins remained undeterred. Despite falling behind 0-3 in the first game, Goins ignited a remarkable 21-6 run, seizing control of the match. He then reached match point at 10-5 in the second game, fending off a late surge from Johnson to secure the victory when he regained serve. Goins attributed his success to staying deep and preventing Johnson from reaching the net.
With this back-to-back triumph, Goins joins an elite group of players including Ben Johns, Zane Navratil, Federico Staksrud, Hunter Johnson, and Christian Alshon who have achieved this feat on the PPA Tour. This impressive win solidifies the teenager’s momentum as he continues his ascent in the rankings, though Goins remains focused on continuous improvement. In the bronze medal match, No. 3 seed Jaume Martinez Vich dominated No. 7 seed Jack Sock, winning 11-1, 11-0 in under fifteen minutes.
Waters and Johns Claim 52nd Mixed Doubles Title in Las Vegas Triumph
Las Vegas, USA – Anna Leigh Waters and Ben Johns, the dominant mixed doubles partnership, captured their 52nd PPA Tour title together at the Walgreens Open in Las Vegas on August 31, 2025. The top-seeded duo dispatched No. 6 seeds Tyra Black and Hayden Patriquin with scores of 11-9, 11-1, 1-11, 11-4 in the day’s opening contest.
After impressively taking the first two games, Waters and Johns faced a challenge in the third, which Black and Patriquin dominated with inspired play from Patriquin, winning 1-11. However, the top seeds quickly regrouped, proving to be too powerful in the end as they cruised to victory in the fourth game. This marked a rare occasion for Waters, who competed in only one gold medal match on Sunday, a first since December 2024.
Johns praised Waters, calling her “clearly the best player in the world on the women’s side,” and reflected on their partnership’s continuous improvement over four years to stay ahead of the field. Both Waters and Johns were slated for other championship matches later that Sunday, highlighting their busy and successful tournament schedule. In the mixed doubles bronze medal match, Anna Bright and Federico Staksrud defeated Catherine Parenteau and Christian Alshon in a dramatic three-game comeback, winning 11-7, 5-11, 11-7.
Buckner Extends Podium Streak, Rallies for Bronze at Las Vegas PPA Open
Las Vegas, USA – Brooke Buckner, the No. 3 seed, showcased her resilience and consistent form by securing the women’s singles bronze medal at the PPA Tour Open on the Las Vegas Strip on August 31, 2025. This victory marks Buckner’s second straight podium finish, further solidifying her position as a reliable performer on the tour.
Buckner faced the No. 17 seed, Layne Sleeth, in a captivating three-game match. Sleeth initiated the contest strongly, claiming the first game with a score of 11-7. Unfazed, Buckner responded with steady and strategic play, winning the second game 11-8 to level the match. In the decisive third game, Buckner took command, controlling the pace and closing out the victory 11-4, thereby clinching third place.
This bronze medal adds to Buckner’s recent string of successes, underscoring her ability to perform under pressure. Her consistent podium finishes highlight her strong momentum as the PPA Tour season progresses. Layne Sleeth’s impressive run to the bronze medal match also signals her growth and emergence as a player to watch in future tournaments.
Staksrud and Bright Rally to Claim Mixed Doubles Bronze in Las Vegas
Las Vegas, USA – Federico Staksrud and Anna Bright executed a dramatic comeback to secure the mixed doubles bronze medal at the PPA Tour Open on the Las Vegas Strip on August 31, 2025. The pair triumphed over Catherine Parenteau and Christian Alshon in a three-game battle, winning 11-7, 5-11, 11-7, to claim third place in the pro main draw.
Staksrud and Bright initiated the match with a strong performance, taking the first game 11-7. However, Parenteau and Alshon responded decisively in the second game, winning 11-5 to level the score. Undeterred, Staksrud and Bright regained control in the deciding third game, showcasing their resilience and skill to clinch the 11-7 victory.
This bronze medal adds a significant achievement to Federico Staksrud and Anna Bright’s PPA Tour record, highlighting their ability to perform consistently and recover under pressure. Their strong teamwork and mental fortitude demonstrated in Las Vegas set a positive tone for their continued competition in upcoming PPA Tour events.
MLP Offseason Shake-Up: Teams Face Tough Roster Decisions for 2026 Season
USA – As the Major League Pickleball (MLP) concludes its inaugural full regular season in 2024, teams are already grappling with complex roster decisions for the upcoming 2026 season, marked by new player keeper and drop rules. The 2024 season was historic, allowing teams to keep drafted players for up to three years, a model designed to foster fan loyalty. However, to maintain league parity, forced player drops are now a yearly fixture, with dropped players entering a draft pool.
The rules governing player keepers and drops for the 2026 season present General Managers with intriguing choices. A key mandate states that all eligible players must enter the free agency pool at least once by the start of the 2027 season. Teams are permitted to designate two players from the 2024 Draft class as “three-year keepers” through the 2026 season. Additionally, a lesser-known rule allows teams to keep one player, drafted in 2024 and traded in 2025 (who was not a free agent in 2025), as a “two-year keeper,” with 2025 counting as Year 1. Players selected in the 2025 Free Agency Draft are exempt from these specific rules, allowing teams to retain them through the 2027 season, even if traded. However, players acquired via waivers are not eligible to be kept and must re-enter the draft pool.
Financially, teams pay a “keeper fee” to the league, which is separate from player salaries, to retain their chosen players. Early analysis suggests that 14 players currently on MLP rosters will unavoidably be dropped due to waiver pickups, with an additional 10 forced drops anticipated if rosters remain unchanged by the deadline. Teams like the Dallas Flash, Orlando Squeeze, and St. Louis Shock face particularly tough choices with multiple star players vying for limited keeper spots. The Challenger Level Champions, Las Vegas Night Owls, moving up to Premier Level in 2026, also face critical decisions. These rules, though potentially subject to change, underscore a dynamic and evolving league.
Sewing Secures Fifth Singles Gold of 2025 at APP Chicago Open
Highland Park, Illinois, USA – Sofia Sewing continued her dominant 2025 season by capturing the women’s pro singles gold medal at the 2025 APP Chicago Open on Championship Sunday. The event, held over Labor Day weekend at Danny Cunniff Park, drew large crowds eager to watch top players compete.
Sewing faced Katerina Stewart in the final, securing her fifth APP Tour singles title of 2025 with a decisive 15-12, 15-6 victory. The opening game was closely contested, with both players exchanging points evenly before Sewing pulled ahead late to win 15-12. She then carried that momentum into the second game, dominating Stewart with an 11-6 finish. Domenika Turkovic earned the bronze medal in the event.
Sewing, expressing her enjoyment of the tournament, acknowledged the volunteers and organizers for a successful event. Her consistent high-level play throughout 2025 has been a hallmark of her season, and this victory further solidifies her position as a leading contender on the APP Tour. The Chicago Open serves as an important stop for players preparing for upcoming major APP Tour events later in the year.
Bates and Sewing Upset Top Seeds for Women’s Doubles Gold at APP Chicago Open
Highland Park, Illinois, USA – In a thrilling finale at the 2025 APP Chicago Open, the dynamic duo of Shelby Bates and Sofia Sewing delivered a stunning upset, winning the women’s pro doubles title on Championship Sunday. They defeated the APP Tour’s top-ranked team, Jill Braverman and Megan Fudge, with scores of 11-8, 12-10, marking a significant moment for both players.
This triumph represents a first career APP Tour gold medal for Bates, and Sewing’s seventh gold medal of 2025. In the first game, Bates and Sewing quickly established a commanding 6-1 lead and held on to win 11-8. The second game saw a dramatic comeback attempt by Braverman and Fudge, who rallied from a 9-4 deficit to tie the score at 10-10. However, Bates and Sewing maintained their composure, securing the final two points to clinch the 12-10 victory.
An emotional Bates shared her joy post-match, highlighting the “rollercoaster ride” of her career and the special significance of achieving her first gold with Sewing. Amanda Hendry and Christine Maddox, in another strong performance, earned the women’s pro doubles bronze medals in Chicago. The 2025 APP Chicago Open, held at Danny Cunniff Park, captivated standing-room-only crowds and continues to boost the popularity and competitive spirit of the APP Tour.
Hometown Hero Wazir and First-Time Gold Medalist Bates Shine at APP Chicago Open
Highland Park, Illinois, USA – Championship Sunday at the 2025 APP Chicago Open, held over Labor Day weekend at Danny Cunniff Park, delivered a spectacle of talent, highlighted by hometown hero Ammar Wazir’s men’s singles gold and Shelby Bates’ first career APP Tour gold medal. Standing-room-only crowds witnessed five action-packed days of elite pickleball.
Ammar Wazir, from Hoffman Estates, Illinois, thrilled his local supporters by securing his second straight men’s singles title. He defeated APP U.S. National Team member Ronan Camron in a hard-fought final, winning 20-18, 15-9. Wazir expressed profound gratitude for the hometown support, reflecting on his journey from not qualifying for the main draw last year to now winning gold. Dusty Boyer earned the men’s singles bronze medal.
In women’s pro doubles, Shelby Bates and Sofia Sewing achieved a significant upset, triumphing over the top-ranked duo of Jill Braverman and Megan Fudge (11-8, 12-10). This historic win marked Bates’ first career gold, while Sewing also clinched her fifth APP Tour women’s singles title of the season against Katerina Stewart (15-12, 15-6). Domenika Turkovic claimed the women’s singles bronze. The men’s pro doubles title went to Will Howells and Jack Munro (their sixth together in 2025), who defeated Erik Lange and Max Manthou (11-5, 11-6). Jack Munro also secured mixed doubles gold with Megan Fudge, battling back to defeat Daria Walczak and Will Sobek (5-11, 11-3, 11-2) for their third title as a duo. All amateur medalists earned an APP Passport for pre-registration to the season-ending 2025 APP Tour Championships in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Highlights from the event will be broadcast on CBS Sports Network.
Hendry and Maddox Secure Bronze in Dominant Showing at APP Chicago Open
Highland Park, Illinois, USA – Amanda Hendry and Christine Maddox demonstrated exceptional consistency and teamwork to clinch the women’s pro doubles bronze medal at the 2025 APP Chicago Open on Saturday, August 30, 2025. The duo delivered a commanding performance against Bobbi Oshiro and Allison Harris, winning their bronze medal match in straight games.
In the opening game, Hendry and Maddox navigated a close battle, ultimately taking it 11-9. They then asserted greater control in the second game, dictating the pace and pulling away for an impressive 11-5 victory, which sealed their third-place finish. This result culminated a strong tournament run for Hendry and Maddox, proving their mettle on the court.
The APP Chicago Open, a significant stop on the pickleball calendar, featured top talent vying for championship and podium honours. While Hendry and Maddox celebrated their bronze, Oshiro and Harris finished a respectable fourth after a competitive showing. Their performance highlighted the depth of talent within the women’s pro doubles field and set a positive tone for future APP Tour events.
Livornese Jr. and Tomassi Claim Men’s Doubles Bronze at APP Chicago Open
Highland Park, Illinois, USA – Richard Livornese Jr. and Tanner Tomassi showcased their focused play and maintained momentum to clinch the bronze medal in men’s pro doubles at the 2025 APP Chicago Open on Saturday, August 30, 2025. The duo secured third place in the tournament by defeating Aidan Schenk and Clayton Powell in straight games, with scores of 11-3 and 11-9.
Livornese Jr. and Tomassi demonstrated sharp focus from the outset of the bronze medal match, dominating the opening game with an 11-3 victory. Although Aidan Schenk and Clayton Powell mounted a push in the second game, Livornese and Tomassi successfully maintained their impressive momentum, closing out the match 11-9 to secure their podium finish.
The APP Chicago Open is recognised as one of the most significant events on the pickleball calendar, featuring top talent in various brackets, including the men’s pro doubles. This victory secures a notable achievement for Richard Livornese Jr. and Tanner Tomassi, highlighting their skill and determination. Schenk and Powell, despite the loss, concluded their tournament run with a strong fourth-place showing, further illustrating the depth of talent within the professional doubles field.
Vietnamese Star Phuc Huynh Triumphs in PPA Tour Asia Semifinal
Itoshima-shi, Japan – Vietnamese player Phuc Huynh delivered a stellar performance in the Pro Men’s Singles semifinals at the PPA Tour Asia Sansan Fukuoka Open, defeating Hong Kit Wong of Hong Kong. The hard-fought match, held on August 30, 2025, showcased competitive rallies and strategic play, with Huynh securing his place in the finals with scores of 10-12, 11-7, and 8-11.
The semifinal showdown was intense, with both players demonstrating fast reflexes and precise shot placement. Each game was closely contested, but Huynh ultimately triumphed in two out of three games, solidifying his advancement to the championship match.
The Sansan Fukuoka Open, a key event within the PPA Tour Asia, attracts top professional pickleball players from across the continent. The Pro Men’s Singles category is inclusive, welcoming players of any age and skill level, thereby providing a platform for emerging talent to compete internationally. Huynh’s victory in the semifinals underscores his increasing prominence in Asian pickleball circuits, highlighting his skill, consistency, and readiness for higher-level international competitions. Fans eagerly anticipate his performance in the finals and future PPA Tour events.
Garnett Achieves Rare Triple Crown, Long Secures Double Gold at Sansan Fukuoka Open
Itoshima-shi, Japan – Connor Garnett delivered an extraordinary performance at the PPA Tour Asia Sansan Fukuoka Open 2025, achieving a rare triple crown with three gold medals, while Chinese rising star Yufei Long secured two titles. Garnett’s only challenge came in the Men’s Singles final on August 31, 2025, where he made a dramatic comeback against Vietnam’s Phuc Huynh, winning 8-11, 11-3, 11-1 after losing the first game.
He then reunited with Black Diamonds teammate Allyce Jones to clinch the Mixed Doubles title, dispatching Len Yang and Wei Ting Chieh 11-7, 11-5. Garnett completed his perfect day by partnering with Tyler Loong to secure Men’s Doubles gold, defeating local favourites Kenta Miyoshi and Robert Stirling 11-3, 12-10. His dominant run showcased exceptional skill and stamina.
Yufei Long also had a remarkable tournament, adding to her growing trophy collection with two gold medals. She first claimed the Women’s Singles title with a commanding 11-1, 11-7 victory over Hsieh Yu-chieh, marking her second consecutive singles title after her triumph at the Panas Malaysia Open. Long then teamed up with fellow UPA Asia Trailblazer Ting Chieh Wei to win Women’s Doubles gold, battling past Australians Danni-Elle Townsend and Nicola Schoeman in a three-game thriller, 6-11, 11-4, 11-6. The PPA Tour Asia is set to continue its excitement with the MB Vietnam Open from September 4-7, 2025, in Ho Chi Minh City.
World No. 3 Garnett Rallies to Claim PPA Tour Asia Men’s Singles Gold
Itoshima-shi, Japan – American pickleball sensation Connor Garnett, ranked world No. 3, staged a thrilling comeback to win the Men’s Singles title at the PPA Tour Asia Sansan Fukuoka Open on August 31, 2025. Garnett defeated Vietnam’s Phuc Huynh in a captivating final with scores of 8-11, 11-3, 11-1.
The final began with Garnett racing to a commanding 6-0 lead, but Huynh stunned the crowd by rallying to take the first game 11-8. Despite this early setback, Garnett quickly regained his composure and control, demonstrating sharp skill and agility. He dominated the subsequent two games, conceding only four points in total, to secure his first title of the tournament day. Garnett’s performance at the Sansan Fukuoka Open reinforced his position as one of the sport’s leading competitors.
In the bronze medal match, Hong Kit Wong delivered a consistent performance, defeating Kenta Miyoshi 11-4, 11-8 to claim a podium finish. The Sansan Fukuoka Open, part of the PPA Tour Asia series, drew top players globally and highlighted emerging talents like Phuc Huynh, who provided exciting challenges to the top seeds.
Garnett and Loong Secure Men’s Doubles Gold at PPA Tour Asia Fukuoka Open
Itoshima-shi, Japan – The American duo of Connor Garnett and Tyler Loong delivered a dominant performance to capture the Men’s Doubles title at the PPA Tour Asia Sansan Fukuoka Open on August 31, 2025. They triumphed over Japan’s Kenta Miyoshi and Robert Stirling in the final, securing the championship with scores of 11-3, 12-10.
Garnett and Loong commenced the final with exceptional teamwork and consistent returns, quickly taking control and winning the first game 11-3. The second game proved to be a tighter contest, but the American pair maintained their composure and focus, ultimately closing it out 12-10 to claim the gold medal.
This victory significantly contributed to Connor Garnett’s strong showing at the Sansan Fukuoka Open, where he also excelled in Men’s Singles and Mixed Doubles events. The PPA Tour Asia consistently draws top doubles teams from around the world, and Garnett and Loong’s success highlights the intense competition and depth of talent within the tour. In the bronze medal match, Eunggwon Kim and Hong Kit Wong overcame Aryaan Bhatia and Prycen Haas in a three-game battle, winning 5-11, 11-8, 11-3.
Wei and Long Stage Comeback to Win Women’s Doubles Gold at Sansan Fukuoka Open
Itoshima-shi, Japan – The formidable duo of Ting Chieh Wei and Yufei Long executed a powerful comeback to capture the Women’s Doubles title at the PPA Tour Asia Sansan Fukuoka Open on August 31, 2025. The UPA Asia Trailblazers defeated the Australian pair of Danni-elle Townsend and Nicola Schoeman with scores of 6-11, 11-4, 11-6, earning gold after an initial setback.
Wei and Long lost the first game 6-11, but quickly regrouped, demonstrating impressive determination and teamwork. They dominated the subsequent two games, winning 11-4 and 11-6, to secure the championship. This victory underscores their status as leading competitors in Women’s Doubles and highlights their resilience under pressure.
In the bronze medal match, Pei-chuan Kao and Allyce Jones displayed consistent play and solid coordination to defeat Yu-chieh Hsieh and Xiao Yi Wang-Beckvall 11-3, 11-8. The Sansan Fukuoka Open brought together top international players, and Wei and Long’s triumph sets a high standard for future tournaments in the region.
Black Diamonds Duo Shines: Jones and Garnett Secure Double Gold at PPA Tour Asia
Itoshima-shi, Japan – Allyce Jones and Connor Garnett, teammates from the Major League Pickleball (MLP) Black Diamonds, dominated the PPA Tour Asia Sansan Fukuoka Open, securing Mixed Doubles gold on August 31, 2025. Their strong coordination led to a decisive 11-2, 11-6 victory over Len Yang and Ting Chieh Wei in the Mixed Doubles final.
Garnett capped off a perfect day by also claiming the Men’s Doubles title, partnering with Tyler Loong. They effectively silenced the home crowd, defeating local favourites Kenta Miyoshi and Robert Stirling in straight games, 11-3, 12-10. The duo’s formidable performance highlighted Garnett’s exceptional skill and endurance, reinforcing his status as a top competitor. Allyce Jones, with this victory, further solidified her position as a leading force in Mixed Doubles, building excitement for her future tournaments.
The bronze medal in Mixed Doubles was secured by Danni-elle Townsend and Lucas Pascoe, who showcased consistent teamwork to defeat Ting Wen Wang and Eunggwon Kim 11-4, 11-9. The Sansan Fukuoka Open, a prestigious event within the PPA Tour Asia series, showcased top-tier talent from around the world.
Yufei Long Dominates Sansan Fukuoka Open With Unstoppable Pickleball Performance
Itoshima, Japan – Yufei Long showcased an unstoppable performance at the PPA Tour Asia Sansan Fukuoka Open, claiming the women’s singles championship on Sunday, August 31, 2025. Long delivered a commanding straight-games victory over Yu-chieh Hsieh, with impressive scores of 11-1, 11-7, to secure the title.
The final match highlighted Long’s exceptional consistency and control throughout. She established a significant lead in the first game, conceding only a single point to Hsieh. Although Hsieh intensified her efforts in the second game, Long’s superior pace and precise shot placement ultimately secured the match in two games. This victory marks Long’s latest significant achievement on the PPA Tour and reinforces her strong rise in PPA Tour Asia events.
In the battle for third place, Ting Chieh Wei displayed consistent play to overcome Sahra Dennehy in two close games, winning 11-9, 11-9, to capture the bronze medal. Dennehy fought to stay competitive, but Wei’s steady performance ultimately made the difference. The results from Fukuoka underscore Long’s dominance and Wei’s consistent performance as the PPA Tour spotlight now shifts to upcoming events across Asia.
India Unveils Historic First Pickleball World Cup Team
Ahmedabad, India – India marked a historic moment for its burgeoning pickleball scene on Saturday, August 30, 2025, with the selection of eight players for the nation’s inaugural Pickleball World Cup team. The trials, held at the Indian Pickleball Association’s (IPA) National Centre for Excellence in Ahmedabad, are a crucial step towards the global tournament set to take place in Florida, USA, from October 27 to November 2, 2025.
The first day of trials saw the selection of several key players: Aman Patel in men’s singles, Amrita Mukherjee in women’s singles, Dhiren Patel and Suraj Desai for men’s doubles, and Rakshika Ravi and Sindoor Mittal for women’s doubles. Additionally, Aayra Khanna and Anushka Chhabaria secured spots in the U16 girls’ category. Over 140 players from various Indian states participated in the trials, demonstrating the sport’s rapid growth across the country.
IPA president Suryaveer Singh Bhullar hailed the day as “a landmark” for Indian pickleball, emphasising that this is the first time players will officially represent India under the aegis of the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports and the Sports Authority of India. The final team will consist of 14 players, two coaches, and two managers, with U16 boys and 50+ categories to be finalised on the second day of trials. India’s debut at the second edition of the Pickleball World Cup, which first took place in Lima, Peru, in October 2024, signifies the sport’s rising popularity and India’s growing presence on the international stage.
Ho Chi Minh City Prepares for PPA Tour Asia MB Vietnam Open
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam – Global pickleball stars are set to ignite Ho Chi Minh City as the PPA Tour Asia MB Vietnam Open 2025 approaches, scheduled from September 4-7, 2025. The prestigious event will unfold at City Park, Global City, promising thrilling competition for both amateur and professional players.
Spectators will have the opportunity to witness elite pickleball action live on the Championship Courts, featuring powerful drives, precise dinks, and smashing points from top international professionals alongside local talent. This unmissable experience aims to cater to all pickleball enthusiasts.
In addition to the main competition, PPA Tour Asia Camps will be available during the tournament, offering further engagement opportunities for players and fans. To ensure fair play and standardised competition, all paddles used in professional events must be UPA-A Certified, requiring players to test their equipment the day before their first match. Amateur participants are permitted to use either UPA-A or USAP Certified paddles listed on the USAP Approved Paddle List. The MB Vietnam Open stands as a significant event in the PPA Tour Asia calendar, further boosting the sport’s profile in the region.
“Podium to Worlds” Program Opens Global Pathway for Australian Pickleball Talent
Sydney, Australia – The Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) Tour Australia has launched an innovative new initiative, the “Podium to Worlds” program, designed to catapult amateur and junior pickleball players from local events to the global stage. This groundbreaking program offers podium finishers at PPA Tour Australia and Asia events free entry and qualification to the United Pickleball World Championships in Dallas, Texas.
The United Pickleball World Championships are scheduled to commence on Sunday, November 3, 2025, at the Brookhaven Country Club in Dallas, running for 10 days. Last year’s championships attracted over 3,400 players and 60,000 fans, and the 2025 edition promises even more matches and entertainment. Under the new program, all junior (U16) podium finishers qualify for the Junior (U16) World Championships, while players aged 17-18 qualify for the 8-34 Champions Division. Amateur podium finishers from PPA Australia and Asia events will qualify for the Champions Division.
All podium finishers will receive free tournament fees, with gold medalists also earning an additional event fee coupon. This initiative aims to break down barriers and reward excellence, making it easier for aspiring players to compete at the highest level. Pro and Senior Pro players may compete in Champions Division events but will not earn prize money and must qualify separately for their professional divisions without discounts. The next opportunity to qualify through this program is the PPA Tour QLD Slam, set for September 11–14, 2025.
Dalla-bona and Wall Dominate Mixed Doubles, Win NSW Pickleball Open Gold
Auburn, Sydney, Australia – Somer Dalla-bona and George Wall delivered an unstoppable performance to clinch the pro mixed doubles 5.0 and above championship at the PPA Tour Australia NSW Pickleball Open on August 31, 2025. The formidable duo defeated Andie Dikosavljevic and Mitchell Hargreaves in straight games, securing the gold medal with scores of 11-5, 11-7.
Dalla-bona and Wall commenced the final with strong, steady play and well-timed attacks, quickly taking control to win the first game 11-5. Despite a spirited fightback from Dikosavljevic and Hargreaves in the second game, Dalla-bona and Wall maintained their composure and momentum, closing out the match 11-7 to claim the prestigious title.
This victory not only underscored Somer Dalla-bona and George Wall’s dominance in mixed doubles but also earned them one of the biggest titles on the PPA Tour Australia. In the bronze medal contest, Selina Turulja and Joseph Wild also impressed, controlling their match against Talia Saunders and Jose Farias from start to finish, securing third place with a straight-game victory of 11-7, 11-6. Both results set a strong precedent for future performances on the tour.
Chris Beaumont
Founder and Editor-in-ChiefChris Beaumont is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of World Pickleball Magazine. Chris follows the global game closely, reporting on the latest news, developments, stories and tournaments from all five continents. He also hosts the World Pickleball Podcast, interviewing people at…
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