Pickleball’s Global Expansion: Pickleball’s international growth surged in 2024, and 2025 is set to be even bigger. The PPA Tour expanded into Australia, while India hosted its first World Pickleball League (WPBL). With new leagues, rising stars, and major prize pools, the sport’s global influence is undeniable.
PPA Tour Expands to Australia
The PPA Tour made its Australian debut in 2024, partnering with the United Pickleball Association (UPA) for the Proton Australia Pickleball Open (January 28-February 2). The event brought U.S. stars like Tyson McGuffin, Collin Johns, and Jesse Irvine to compete alongside Australia’s top players.
While American players dominated, Australia’s Somer Dalla-Bona made a strong impression, reaching the women’s singles final before falling to Kaitlyn Christian. Andie Dikosavljevic secured bronze.
In men’s doubles, Tyson McGuffin and Gabe Tardio won gold in a five-game thriller, while Lacy Schneemann and Vivian Glozman took the women’s title.
Zane Navratil’s performance stood out as he partnered with Australian players Joseph Wild and Roos van Reek, finishing fourth in men’s doubles and sixth in mixed. His success hints at more international collaborations in the sport’s future.
2025 World Pickleball League Brings Global Competition to India
India hosted its first major professional pickleball league with the WPBL in Mumbai from January 24-February 2. Featuring 48 players from 14 countries, the competition introduced a team-based format. U.S. players Brandon and Glauka Lane, Maxwell Freeman, and Katerina Stewart (who was named “Player of the League”) delivered standout performances.
Despite strong competition, the Bengaluru Jawans emerged as champions. The league’s professional production, extensive social media coverage, and user-friendly platform helped boost its visibility. With such a successful launch, the WPBL is expected to expand in the coming years.
What’s Next for Pickleball’s Global Growth?
The momentum continues with the upcoming Global Sports Pro and Challenger League alongside the Indian Open (February 3-9 in Mumbai). This dual-format event allows players to compete individually in the morning and as teams in the afternoon. U.S. players Kyle Yates, Heather Nobler, and Rianna Valdes are among those set to compete.
Meanwhile, Pickleball World Rankings (PWR) is making waves with its 2025 schedule, including the PWR DUPR Indian League (backed by Andre Agassi) and the PWR World Series, featuring $1.5 million prize pools in Dubai, Madrid, and Las Vegas. With new talent emerging, pickleball’s global presence is stronger than ever.
Looking Ahead
As pickleball expands worldwide, questions remain about how international players will fare against U.S. competitors and whether more global partnerships will form. With multiple events already kicking off in 2025, the sport’s rapid growth shows no signs of slowing down.
News in Brief: Pickleball’s Global Expansion
Pickleball’s global expansion reached new heights with the PPA Tour in Australia and India’s first professional league. The sport’s growing international presence, rising stars, and increasing prize money suggest an exciting future. With major events ahead, pickleball’s global rise is just beginning.
ALSO READ: PPA and MLP’s 2025 Asian Expansion Set to Boost Pickleball’s Global Popularity