Megan Fudge DeHeart, a professional pickleball player, recently shared her experiences promoting the sport internationally on the podcast “Talk Pickle to Me.” Over the past two years, she has played a key role in advancing pickleball outside the U.S., participating in numerous international tournaments and events.
Fudge DeHeart’s first international tournament was the English Open, held two years ago. She praised Karen Mitchell, who organizes the event, for doing a fantastic job. “Biggest tournament outside of the US,” she noted. Last year, Fudge DeHeart expanded her efforts into the Asian market, visiting Mumbai, India, for the first time through a global organization and Prana, which runs PWR.
Expanding into Asia
In June, Fudge DeHeart returned to India, visiting two more cities and returning to Mumbai. She then traveled to China for three weeks, where she conducted workshops and clinics in seven different cities. These events provided valuable exposure for the sport.
Fudge DeHeart also visited Vietnam, the Philippines, and Thailand at the end of the year. Her trips included another visit to India, where she had already traveled three times in 2023. Additionally, she mentioned her trip to Dubai, which was also part of her international journey. “Dubai was on that list too last year, which was incredible,” she said.
Significance of Her Efforts
Fudge DeHeart’s work has significantly contributed to the growth of pickleball around the world. Her dedication to promoting the sport in new regions opens opportunities for players and enthusiasts globally. As international interest in pickleball increases, the sport’s popularity is likely to continue growing, fostering a more diverse and engaged community.
News in Brief: Megan Fudge DeHeart’s International Journey
Megan Fudge DeHeart discussed her international pickleball experiences on “Talk Pickle to Me.” She highlighted her participation in tournaments in India, China, Dubai, and other countries. Her efforts aim to expand the sport’s global reach and promote its growth in new regions.