Connor Pardoe’s Pickleball Innovations: PPA CEO Connor Pardoe has announced that professional pickleball will soon adopt automated line-calling technology, the same system used in professional tennis. Connor Pardoe shared this news during an interview with Zane Navratil on the PicklePod, saying the technology could be in place by the end of 2025.
Connor Pardoe said,
“We’ll take the eight pro courts that we have and there will be automatic line calling, so you won’t even call lines anymore.”
A Major Change for Fair Play
Automated line calling will address one of the sport’s biggest problems: disputes over line calls. Many pro matches have been affected by incorrect calls, which can change the outcome of a game.
A recent example involved Travis Rettenmaier, who admitted he called a ball out on purpose to get back at another bad call earlier in the match. This kind of behavior has raised concerns about fairness.
Connor Pardoe explained that this change is important for making pickleball a respected sport ready for big media deals, betting, and maybe even the Olympic Games.
Other Plans to Improve the Sport
Connor Pardoe also talked about new steps to fight cheating.
On paddle testing, he said, “We’re in a way better spot today than we ever have been.” Starting September 1, 2025, all pro paddles will need UPA-A Certification. “We’ve invested millions of dollars over the last two years into trying to fix the problem and get it right,” he said.
Regarding drug testing, he shared that the league might invest between $500,000 and $1 million every year when it is time to start checking for performance-enhancing drugs.
New Contracts to Reward Winners
Another big update is a new prize-based contract system for pro players.
Connor Pardoe said, “You can’t have a pro sport without the best talent.”
Starting in 2026, pro players will have contracts that focus on performance. Annual guaranteed salaries will be one-third of current amounts, but players will compete for a $15 million prize pool spread across UPA and Major League Pickleball events.
At least $5 million each year will be set aside for international event winners.
Connor Pardoe believes this system will attract top athletes and help the sport grow. He explained,
“We need the buy-in from the best players to want to be here and want to grow the sport.”
Building the Future of Pickleball
These changes show how serious leaders are about making pickleball a global sport. Automated line calls will increase trust. Clear rules for paddles and drug testing will raise standards. New contracts will motivate players to perform their best.
Fans and players alike can expect a more professional, fair, and exciting game as pickleball moves forward.
News in Brief: Connor Pardoe’s Pickleball Innovations
PPA CEO Connor Pardoe announced that automated line calling will begin by late 2025 to improve fairness in pro pickleball. Other plans include paddle certification, possible drug testing, and prize-based contracts. These changes aim to make pickleball more respected, fair, and ready for global growth.