Good morning, pickleballers!
Before we get cracking with today’s pickleball news, the January issue of World Pickleball Magazine is now live and free to read. Explore global stories from Türkiye, Poland, Italy, Japan, India, Pakistan, and more, alongside wider coverage of governance, refereeing, and how the sport is developing worldwide.
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In the latest episode, which you can listen to below, Chris Beaumont speaks to the Picklebros about content creation and their journey in Pickleball.
Here’s the pickleball news from the last 24 hours.
France Targets Coaching Excellence with New IPTPA Certification Dates
Trets, France – The Federation Pickleball France has announced a fresh wave of opportunities for aspiring instructors to professionalise their passion in early 2026. As the sport continues to gain traction across Europe, the Federation is prioritising high-quality instruction by offering comprehensive training sessions certified by the International Pickleball Teaching Professional Association (IPTPA).
The newly released schedule highlights two key sessions designed to bolster the ranks of certified trainers in the region. The first session is slated to take place on January 21 in the commune of Trets, followed by a second opportunity on March 28 in Lure. These workshops are structured to provide a rigorous blend of theoretical knowledge and on-court practical application, ensuring that candidates are well-versed in both the mechanics of the game and the pedagogy of teaching it.
Participants will undergo a final test to earn their certification, a credential that signifies a standardised level of teaching excellence recognized globally. Registration for these sessions is officially open, signalling the Federation’s commitment to building a robust infrastructure for the sport’s development in France. By equipping local players with the skills to teach, the Federation Pickleball France aims to foster a sustainable ecosystem for the sport’s expansion throughout the 2026 season and beyond.
Global Talent Shines at World Pickleball Championship Masters in Hainan
Hainan, China – The World Pickleball Championship (WPC) Series kicked off its 2026 season with a spectacular display of international skill at the WPC Masters in Hainan on January 5. The opening day featured intense competition across various age and skill divisions, highlighting the sport’s growing global footprint with winners hailing from diverse regions.
In the Men’s Doubles (MD) 19+ 5.0+ division, the duo of Hong Kit Wong and Louis Laville claimed the top spot, showcasing the future of elite play. The senior divisions saw equally fierce competition; in the MD 50+ 5.0 category, I Gusti Ngurah Alit Putra Hariwibawa and Minh Le secured the championship trophy, outpacing the runner-up team of Daryl Wyatt and Martin Clark. The Women’s Doubles (WD) 50+ 5.0 title was captured by Lin Mei Chuan and Pini Lee, who delivered a gold-medal performance against Haj Wilcox and Ingrid Lau.
Despite settling for silver in the 50+ division, Haj Wilcox and Ingrid Lau found redemption in the WD 35+ 4.5 category, taking home the gold. The 19+ brackets also saw rising stars, with Apinya Poonsamer and Simona Castelnuovo dominating the WD 19+ 3.5 field, while Karina Aditya Dwipayani and Kwan Wun Man triumphed in the WD 19+ 5.0 division. In the Men’s 35+ categories, Chen Wei and Yu Tian secured victory in the 3.5 division, while Kin Long Chan and Tran Khanh Binh took top honours in the 4.5 division. The results from Day 1 underscore the high level of competition expected throughout the remainder of the WPC Series.
Down Under Dynasties: Australian Masters Cup Returns for 2026 Season
Canberra, Australia – Following a highly successful inaugural year, the Australian Masters Cup (AMC) has officially opened club registrations for the 2026 season, promising an expanded and more competitive landscape for senior players. Pickleball Australia is positioning the AMC as the country’s premier pathway for Masters-aged athletes, building on the momentum of a memorable debut season.
The competition is designed to be inclusive yet competitive, featuring divisions for players aged 50+, 60+, and 70+. The format encourages grassroots participation that scales up to elite competition; players begin by rising through their local club ladders before advancing to regional, state, and eventually national finals. This tiered structure has quickly established the AMC as a vital component of the Australian pickleball ecosystem, fostering community engagement while identifying top-tier talent among senior demographics.
Organisers have issued a call to action for clubs across the continent, urging those who missed out last year not to make the same mistake twice. With the promise of an “even bigger year,” the 2026 AMC seeks to solidify its reputation as the most exciting competitive avenue for older adults in the region. Club representatives are encouraged to submit their Expressions of Interest (EOI) immediately to ensure their members can participate in the upcoming action.
Tokyo Honours Excellence: Winners Announced for Inaugural Pickleball Awards Japan 2025
Dateline: Tokyo, Japan – In a landmark moment for the sport in East Asia, the winners of the first-ever PICKLEBALL AWARDS JAPAN 2025 were announced this week, celebrating the athletes and community builders driving the game’s rapid expansion. Organised by Pickleball One Co., Ltd., the awards recognised excellence across nine categories, with results determined by a combination of public voting and a selection committee.
Yuta Funemizu was crowned the Most Valuable Player (MVP), a testament to his dominant results and significant impact on domestic competition. The awards also highlighted the sport’s future and developmental backbone; Kei Sawaki took home the Future Player Award (U18), while Daniel Moore received the Best Coach Award for his nationwide contributions to player development. Equipment giant JOOLA was a major winner, securing the Best Brand Award, with their Ben Johns Perseus Pro IV winning Best Competition Paddle.
Beyond individual accolades, the ceremony emphasized the communal spirit of pickleball. The Outstanding Circle Award was shared by three groups—Hakone Pickleball, Chiba Prefecture Pickleball Association, and NAGOYA PICKLES—for their sustained local activity. Additionally, digital influence was recognised with Pickle Kode winning the Social Media Impact Award. Organizers noted that over 1,300 votes were cast, establishing these awards as a new annual benchmark for measuring the sport’s cultural and commercial progress in Japan.
Grand Slam Crossover: Tennis Stars Osaka and Sinner Set for Melbourne Pickleball Showdown
Melbourne, Australia – The worlds of Grand Slam tennis and professional pickleball are set to collide this January as superstars Naomi Osaka and Jannik Sinner prepare for a unique exhibition match ahead of the Australian Open. According to reports, the two tennis icons will face off on a pickleball court on January 15, 2026, adding a fresh twist to the traditional pre-tournament schedule.
The event is scheduled to take place at the 1 Hotel Melbourne, utilising the scenic riverside parklands surrounding the venue to create an intimate and exclusive atmosphere. Unlike the massive crowds expected at Melbourne Park, this exhibition will be closed to the general public, with attendance restricted to a select group of invited media. This setting offers a rare, informal look at elite athletes engaging with the fastest-growing sport in the world.
Organisers have framed the match as an intimate exhibition rather than a high-stakes competitive fixture, emphasizing the growing crossover appeal pickleball holds among elite racquet sport athletes. While specific details on the match format remain under wraps, the event represents a significant marketing moment for pickleball, leveraging the star power of Osaka and Sinner to capture attention during one of the busiest weeks in the global tennis calendar.
High Stakes Suspension: Parris Todd Breaks Silence Over Participation
Salt Lake City, USA – Professional pickleball player Parris Todd has broken her silence regarding a significant disciplinary action that includes a $50,000 fine and a suspension from two major upcoming tournaments. The penalties were levied following her agreement to participate in an event in Japan, a decision that has sparked controversy regarding player exclusivity and contractual obligations.
In her first public statement since the sanctions were announced, Todd explained that she “did not have all the details at the time” she committed to the Japanese event. She emphasised that there was no malicious intent behind her actions, stating, “At no point was it my intention to submit inaccurate or incomplete information when requesting to participate”.
The suspension will see Todd sidelined for the upcoming PPA Tour Masters and the first Major League Pickleball (MLP) event in May, a blow to both her season and her team. This incident highlights the growing friction in professional pickleball as players navigate complex contracts and the allure of international exhibition opportunities. Todd’s defence rests on a misunderstanding rather than defiance, but the severity of the fine signals the league’s strict enforcement of compliance protocols.
Neon Courts: Pickleball Transforms into Japan’s Newest Urban Social Trend
Dateline: Tokyo, Japan – Pickleball is finding a unique cultural niche in Japan, evolving from a mere competitive sport into a central pillar of urban social life. Unlike the suburban country club model often seen in the West, Japan’s adoption of the sport is being driven by the development of accessible indoor venues in dense city centres like Ginza and Shinbashi.
Facilities such as PICKLEBALL ONE GINZA have integrated the game into the daily rhythm of Tokyo’s workforce, offering court access before and after office hours. This accessibility has allowed the sport to flourish as a “social sport,” emphasising interaction, communication, and community over pure athletic performance. The reduced physical toll of the game further broadens its appeal across various age groups, fitting neatly into the country’s wellness trends.
Venues like the Pacific PICKLE CLUB are taking this concept further by prioritizing atmosphere and design, functioning as social hubs where athletic participation intersects with cultural engagement. By positioning pickleball as a lifestyle activity rather than just a sport, these urban facilities are redefining how residents connect and stay active, establishing a steady and sustainable expansion for pickleball across the region.
Desert Boom: Saudi Arabia Pickleball Market Projected to Hit $300 Million by 2033
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – A new market research report projects explosive growth for the pickleball industry in Saudi Arabia, estimating the market could reach a valuation of $300 million by 2033. Currently valued between $10 million and $15 million, the sector is forecast to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13.5% between 2025 and 2033.
This anticipated surge is being driven by a combination of government-led sports initiatives and a young, health-conscious population. The report highlights that national sports development programs are actively funding new infrastructure, including courts and community clubs, which are essential for sustained participation. While current demand is largely fueled by expatriates and recreational players, widespread adoption among locals is expected as the sport is integrated into structured wellness programs.
The paddle segment, in particular, is poised for significant revenue generation due to frequent replacement cycles and a growing appetite for high-performance equipment. The report advises manufacturers to tailor their products to the region’s specific climate conditions and to establish strong local distribution partnerships. Ultimately, the study positions Saudi Arabia as a leading emerging market in the Middle East, with growth rates expected to outpace more mature regions in the coming decade.
Hungarian Debut: Győr to Host Inaugural Pannon Cup at Olympic Sports Park
Győr, Hungary – International pickleball is set to open a new chapter in Central Europe with the launch of the Pannon Cup, scheduled to take place from April 22 to 24, 2026. The inaugural event will be hosted in Győr at the Olimpiai Sportpark (Olympic Sports Park), recognised as one of Hungary’s most modern and impressive sports facilities.
The Pannon Cup has secured immediate prestige by serving as an official stop on the World Pickleball Championship (WPC) tour. This designation guarantees a high calibre of competition, attracting a mix of professional athletes and enthusiastic amateurs from around the globe. Organisers have confirmed that the tournament will feature prize money, adding a layer of financial stakes to the competitive excitement.
In addition to the immediate rewards, the tournament offers long-term benefits for local players; results from the Pannon Cup will count toward qualification points for the highest level of the National Championship. With registration opening soon, Pickleball Hungary and its partners are inviting the global community to help write the history of this new tradition, promising a “real international field” and high-quality matches in a world-class venue.
Power Players: The Kitchen Unveils Ranking of Pickleball’s Most Influential Figures
Austin, USA – As pickleball transitions from a boom era to a mainstream force, media platform The Kitchen has begun releasing its “Pickleball Power 50,” a ranking of the most influential individuals shaping the sport in 2026. The list was compiled after consulting dozens of industry insiders to identify who holds true power across factors like reach, revenue, and relationships.
The initial reveal of ranks 50 through 46 highlights the diversity of influence in the ecosystem. At number 50 is Courtney Johnson, the Director of Team Competition for the United Pickleball Association, recognised for her role in professionalising officiating and match structures. Jimmy Miller, General Manager of MLP’s California Black Bears, took the 49th spot for his candid, behind-the-scenes commentary.
The list also honors Roscoe Bellamy (No. 48) for bridging elite play with content creation, and Seymour Rifkind (No. 47) for his foundational work in global governance and instructor certification. Rounding out the first batch is Robert Elliott (No. 46), CEO of Engage Pickleball, credited as a pioneer of modern paddle innovation. As the countdown continues, the list aims to define who is best positioned to lead pickleball toward Olympic inclusion and future growth.
End of an Era: Top Pro Vivienne David Announces Retirement from Professional Competition
Dallas, USA – Longtime professional pickleball star Vivienne David has announced her retirement from professional competition, bringing a close to a decorated career that includes 23 PPA Tour medals. In a heartfelt statement released on social media, David confirmed she is “hanging up her paddle” to shift her focus toward teaching the next generation of players.
David, widely regarded as one of the sport’s premier right-side female players, secured three PPA Tour titles during her tenure. A significant portion of her success came in mixed doubles alongside partner Thomas Wilson, who praised their partnership, stating, “Nothing will ever compare to the experience of playing with [Vivienne] and the run we had together”. Wilson himself is currently suspended while managing a rare autoimmune disorder.
The announcement marks a significant transition for David, who plans to leverage her expertise in a coaching capacity rather than on the tournament court. Her departure opens a spot at the top of the women’s game, as fans and fellow competitors celebrate a career defined by consistency and high-level performance.
The Futurist’s Plea: Steve Kuhn Urges Global Federation to Adopt Rally Scoring
Manila, Philippines – Steve Kuhn, the founder of Major League Pickleball, delivered a bold vision for the sport’s future during an address to the Global Pickleball Federation (GPF) Congress in Manila. Fresh off the success of launching the Pickleball Champions League Asia (PCL Asia), Kuhn urged the governing body to make rally scoring the official rule of the sport, arguing it is essential for television viability and fan engagement.
Kuhn supported his argument by referencing the PCL Asia finals held at the Mall of Asia, which attracted an estimated 100,000 casual viewers. “Everyone loves rally scoring,” Kuhn asserted, noting that the format makes the game easier to learn and provides the predictable match lengths required by broadcasters. He warned that traditional side-out scoring creates unpredictable game times that are “inefficient” for TV production.
Kuhn appealed directly to the GPF board to be decisive, stating, “I want to urge you to go one step further, say it should be the rule”. He also advised against the introduction of gambling in the sport, suggesting pickleball is not yet ready for it. His speech positioned Asia as the central hub for the sport’s next phase of growth, predicting that the number of players worldwide could double every three years.
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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