World Pickleball Ventures Fuel Global Expansion: In North America, the rise of pickleball has been impossible to ignore. Participation reports from earlier this year revealed that nearly 50 million Americans have tried the sport—meaning almost one in five U.S. adults have picked up a paddle. While the sport initially grew as a fun, social pastime, it has firmly established itself as a staple in recreational and professional sports.
Across the border in Canada, the pickleball scene is quietly but steadily rising as well. Canadian membership numbers are approaching those of USA Pickleball, indicating that pickleball’s reach is far from limited to just the U.S. The message is clear: pickleball has entrenched itself across North America, and its popularity shows no signs of waning.
The International Opportunity: Untapped Potential
But the world is a big place, and while pickleball has become a household name in North America, many regions have yet to experience the sport’s rapid rise. The international market represents a vast, largely untapped opportunity. In the last few years, interest in the sport has begun to bloom across various countries.
Multiple organizations are now positioning themselves as the definitive international governing body (NGB) for pickleball, each claiming their stake in the sport’s global expansion. These groups include the International Federation of Pickleball (IFP), the World Pickleball Federation (WPF), the Global Pickleball Federation (GPF), the Pickleball International Council (PIC), and the United Pickleball Association-Affiliate (UPA-A). The competition to control pickleball’s international governance reflects the immense growth potential still lying ahead.
International Tournaments and Initiatives Drive Global Growth
Pickleball’s international ambitions aren’t just talk—there’s real momentum behind its global expansion. The Association of Pickleball Professionals (APP) has already made strides by supporting several major international events in countries like India, England, and Spain. These tournaments are drawing in a mix of local players and international stars, helping to spread pickleball’s appeal beyond North American borders. Additionally, Major League Pickleball – Australia is heading into its second season, and this league is beginning to feature some of the sport’s top U.S.-based professional players, making it a key player in fostering global competition.
Further highlighting pickleball’s international push, the United Pickleball Association (UPA) recently announced plans for five PPA-affiliated events in 2025. These events are set to take place in Australia, India, Canada, Asia, and Europe, showcasing elite pickleball talent from across the globe. This represents a significant step toward establishing pickleball as a truly global sport, with competitive leagues and tournaments that span multiple continents.
Dubai’s $15 Million Prize Pool: A Game-Changer for International Pickleball
Arguably the most ambitious move in pickleball’s international expansion came with the launch of the Pickleball World Ranking (PWR) initiative in Dubai. Just a week after UPA’s global tournament announcement, Dubai unveiled its plans for a 2025 pro series with a staggering $15 million prize pool. This major financial commitment promises to attract top talent and elevate the sport’s profile on a global stage.
With the Middle East as its focus, the Dubai-based PWR could become a central player in the global pickleball scene. The combination of massive prize money and the region’s growing interest in hosting international sports events positions the Middle East as a key market for pickleball’s continued expansion.
Pickleball’s journey from a niche hobby in North America to a global sport is well underway. As international tournaments proliferate and major financial investments roll in, the game is poised to captivate players and fans worldwide.
News in Brief: World Pickleball Ventures Fuel Global Expansion
Pickleball’s rapid rise in North America is spreading globally, driven by international tournaments and investments. Organizations like the IFP, WPF, and UPA-A are competing to govern the sport worldwide. The APP has backed events in India, England, and Spain, while Major League Pickleball – Australia is entering its second season with top U.S. players.
The UPA plans five international events in 2025, and Dubai’s Pickleball World Ranking promises a $15 million prize pool. With growing participation across multiple continents, pickleball is set for significant global growth.
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