Global Pickleball Alliance Unified Tour: A major international coalition has launched to unite professional pickleball worldwide. Led by the Association of Pickleball Players, the alliance includes Global Sports from India, the European Pickleball Federation, Canada’s National Pickleball League, Australia’s NPL, Pickleball England, and Vietnam’s Pickleball D-Joy. The goal is a single global tour, ranking system, and better player support.
Global Tour Schedule Announced
The alliance has released a provisional 2026 calendar with over 30 tournaments in multiple countries. Events are divided into three tiers with increasing prize money. The season starts in Australia in January, followed by the Indian Open in February. Tournaments will continue through Vietnam, the United States, and Canada, with the European Open in Portugal in October. Championship events conclude the season in November and December.
According to the Association of Pickleball Players, the schedule avoids conflicts between major events. This allows players to compete in more tournaments worldwide, giving them a clear path to advance their professional careers.
Unified Ranking System and Player Support
A global ranking system is in development and will launch with the 2026 schedule. Points earned at designated events will determine player standings and qualifications for major championships.
The alliance also plans stronger commercial partnerships to increase sponsorships and revenue sharing for athletes. Funding for player scholarships will support professionals pursuing careers in pickleball. Ken Herrmann of the Association of Pickleball Players said the goal is “supporting professionals who pursue pickleball careers.”
Significance for the Sport
This global pickleball alliance marks a key step in professionalizing the sport. It creates new opportunities for athletes across continents and promises significant growth for professional pickleball worldwide.
News in Brief: Global Pickleball Alliance Unified Tour
The Association of Pickleball Players has led a global alliance with partners from India, Europe, Canada, Australia, England, and Vietnam. The coalition will launch a unified tour, global ranking system, and larger prize pools in 2026. The initiative aims to professionalize pickleball and support players worldwide.