Equal Pay In Professional Pickleball: Professional pickleball is setting a new example in the world of sports. Unlike other leagues where women often earn much less than men, pickleball players are getting equal treatment. In fact, some female players are now earning even more than athletes in big sports leagues. According to reports, professional female pickleball players earn an average of $260,000 per year, more than the top-paid player in the Women’s National Basketball Association, Jackie Young, who earns $252,450.
Major League Pickleball (MLP) and the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) have focused on fairness from the beginning. These leagues were formed in the digital age, so they didn’t have to follow outdated pay rules. Instead, they promoted gender equality from day one.
A New Way to Build Sports Leagues
Unlike older sports organizations, pickleball leagues don’t carry the weight of old traditions. Samin Odhwani, the Commissioner of Major League Pickleball, has pushed for fairness from the start. “You can just pay them equally,” he said. “You don’t have to ask questions about it.”
In these leagues, women get nearly the same amount of broadcast time and promotion as men. Sponsors also treat women and men the same. The leagues’ approach has helped the sport grow quickly while keeping things fair.
This fair pay also means women can invest more time and energy into their training. “If the athlete can invest in themselves,” Samin Odhwani explained, “they become better players, and then we receive the benefit.”
Catherine Parenteau’s Rise in the Sport
Catherine Parenteau, ranked fourth in women’s singles, didn’t plan to play pickleball professionally. After a shoulder injury cut short her tennis career, she was introduced to the sport by her mentor, Simone Jardim. What started as a casual game turned into a professional path.
Now a top-five player in doubles and mixed doubles too, Catherine Parenteau plays for the L.A. Mad Drops. Her team is backed by big names like Drew Brees and Haley Jones. “It’s pretty amazing for female athletes,” she said. “They get the same number [of spots] as males that can play on a team.”
She also mentors younger players and joins clinics to help promote the sport. Parenteau believes players should start in smaller tournaments and grow step-by-step. “Don’t put yourself higher than your level,” she advised.
A Model for Other Sports to Follow
The way pickleball supports women could influence other sports leagues. By giving women equal pay and a strong platform, the sport has shown that fairness helps everyone.
Major League Pickleball didn’t need years of change to make things better—they made the choice from the beginning. “You don’t have to do a phased rollout,” Samin Odhwani said. “You can just hit ‘go’ and accept that this is the right thing to do.”
News in Brief: Equal Pay In Professional Pickleball
Professional pickleball is breaking barriers in equal pay for women athletes. With average salaries at $260,000 and full inclusion in teams and broadcasts, the sport is leading by example. Catherine Parenteau’s journey shows how the game empowers players. Pickleball’s approach could change the future of women’s sports.
ALSO READ: Baton Rouge Pickleball Players Flock Indoors as Sizzling Heat Fuels Indoor Court Craze