Australian pickleball stars Tom Evans and Helena Spiridis have signed exclusive contracts with the United Pickleball Association (UPA) in the United States. This includes participation in the Carvana PPA Tour and Major League Pickleball (MLP). Fans can catch them at the Proton Australia Pickleball Open, taking place from January 28 to February 2, at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.
A New Chapter in Their Athletic Careers
Evans and Spiridis, both former top junior tennis players in Australia, were integral members of the inaugural NPLeague 1 winning team, The Jalapenos, in Australia’s National Pickleball League (NPL).
Their transition from tennis to pickleball has been remarkable, showcasing their adaptability and commitment to excelling in this rapidly growing sport.
This marks a significant milestone for Australian players, as Evans and Spiridis are the first to sign contracts with the elite PPA Tour and MLP. Their agreements open pathways for more Australian athletes to pursue professional pickleball.
The PPA Tour is recognized as the premier professional pickleball tour, where top players compete for rankings across singles, doubles, and mixed doubles formats. Meanwhile, MLP features these professionals on co-ed teams, with prominent team owners, including LeBron James and Tom Brady.
Expanding Opportunities in Pickleball
Pickleball is rapidly gaining popularity worldwide, and last year, players on the PPA Tour and MLP collectively earned over $30 million in prize money, attracting a significant viewership. This opportunity represents a remarkable advancement for Evans and Spiridis, who are excited to compete at such a high level.
“Being signed to the number one Pickleball Association in the world, alongside the best players, is absolutely mind-blowing. I’m thrilled to partner with such a fantastic organization like the PPA Tour and help grow this incredible sport. My time with the NPL, both playing and serving as an ambassador, has helped propel me to this incredible moment – and I hope to see many more athletes making this incredible journey.” – (Evans)
Spiridis shared her excitement, stating,
“When I first started playing pickleball, my goal was to one day become a PPA player in the US and now that dream has become a reality. I’m so grateful for this opportunity. Partnering with such an incredible organization like the PPA feels surreal.” – (Spiridis)
Looking Forward to Competition in the USA
Evans and Spiridis will depart for the USA in June 2025, where they plan to compete among the top pickleball athletes. Their success in Australia’s NPL and new contracts with the UPA signal a promising future for Australian players on the international stage.
This development not only highlights the rising popularity of pickleball but also encourages more athletes from Australia to pursue opportunities in the sport. As Evans and Spiridis embark on this new chapter, they hope to inspire others to follow their passion for pickleball.
News in Brief: Pickleball Stars Tom Evans and Helena Spiridis
Australian pickleball stars Tom Evans and Helena Spiridis signed exclusive contracts with the United Pickleball Association, marking a significant step for Australian players. They will compete in the Carvana PPA Tour and MLP, aiming to inspire future athletes in the sport.
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