Zane Navratil Pickleball Leadership Challenge: Zane Navratil has been named the new president of the United Pickleball Association’s Pro Player Committee, just days after the World Pickleball Players Association was announced. His appointment puts him at the center of a growing discussion around player rights and league fairness in professional pickleball.
Navratil, a well-known name in pickleball, brings experience and leadership to the role. He is a title-winning athlete in both the PPA Tour and Major League Pickleball. He also captains the New Jersey 5s, co-hosts The Dink’s PicklePod, and works with brands like Paddletek and ProXR Pickleball.
A Leader with Many Roles
Zane Navratil holds several roles in the pickleball world, from athlete to business partner. He will now serve as the voice for 167 professional players under the UPA banner. Though he didn’t seek the job, he says he’s committed to representing players fairly.
“While I didn’t actively seek this position, I take this responsibility seriously and am committed to serving the player community with integrity and balance,” said Zane Navratil. “Like many others in this growing sport, I wear a lot of hats—professional athlete, team captain of the The New Jersey 5s – Major League Pickleball, partner at 35 Capital (owner of Paddletek and ProXR Pickleball), co-creator of an international clinic platform with Christopher Bouza/Pickleball Pros, YouTube content creator, podcast host with The Dink Pickleball, and ambassador for Stop Alzheimer’s Now. I’m also a proud husband to Jenny and dog dad to Murray and Arlo.”
Recognizing the WPPA’s Role
As the UPA makes moves, the newly formed World Pickleball Players Association is also gaining attention. Zane Navratil commented on the WPPA’s backing, noting in an online post that it “seems more legit” due to its connection with Sports Solidarity, the group that supported the MLB union effort in 2022.
The WPPA is led by former tennis pro and current pickleball star Tina Pisnik. Her group is seen as focused only on players, while Navratil’s committee is under the UPA, which oversees both the PPA Tour and MLP.
2/5 Players, including Tina Pisnik and Collin Johns, formed the World Pickleball Players Association (WPPA).
— Zane Navratil (@ZaneNavratil) July 30, 2025
Navigating a Delicate Balance
Some players might worry that Zane Navratil will side more with the UPA than with players, especially given his past support of the league. This perception could challenge his ability to act independently.
Still, many in the sport respect his honesty and professionalism. As pressure builds, it remains to be seen how he will manage competing interests.
Zane Navratil’s strong reputation and broad ties across the pickleball community suggest he may be able to bring both sides together—or at least open more discussion.
News in Brief: Zane Navratil Pickleball Leadership Challenge
Zane Navratil has been named president of the United Pickleball Association’s Pro Player Committee. As he takes on this role, the new World Pickleball Players Association adds pressure. Navratil promises to serve with “integrity and balance,” but questions remain about how he’ll manage league and player interests.
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