Major League Pickleball Returns to Arizona: Major League Pickleball came back to Arizona this weekend for the first time since 2023. The 2025 MLP Phoenix is hosted by the Phoenix Flames and is taking place at the Arizona Athletic Grounds in Mesa. It runs through Sunday, rain or shine.
The league has brought top players and high energy to the Valley for its fourth regular-season event of the year. Fans and players are excited to be part of the action, especially at a location many say is one of the best for pickleball.
Mesa Venue Stands Out
The Arizona Athletic Grounds has made a big impression on league officials and fans. “It’s awesome. You look around and you’ve got the landscape, you’ve got the sunset, and you’ve got the cool weather at night,” said Major League Pickleball commissioner Samin Odhwani.
“This is one of the best venues in America, if not the world.” – (Samin Odhwani)
The championship court is covered, so even if it rains Sunday, matches will go on without delay.
A League Full of Teams and Talent
Major League Pickleball includes 22 teams split into two divisions: Premier and Challenger. These teams represent different cities and bring together some of the top pickleball players in the country.
“You’re going to have a blast. Major League Pickleball is a high energy atmosphere.” – (Samin Odhwani)
He added that fans at the Mesa event have brought great energy to the matches.
Phoenix Is Home for Some Players
Professional player Alex Walker is part of the Phoenix Flames team. She moved to Phoenix from Canada with her sister to focus on pickleball.
“My sister and I moved here for pickleball. There’s not as much pickleball in Canada although it’s definitely growing over there. We moved here so we could train.” – (Alex)
Alex Walker said the people of Arizona have been very welcoming and supportive of her career.
“Arizona has just been such an amazing place to continue our pickleball journey. We’ve been so lucky to be able to be here and make such amazing friends and just have a blast playing the sport that we love.” – (Alex)
A Growing Sport with a Bright Future
The return of Major League Pickleball to Arizona shows how fast the sport is growing. With events like this drawing crowds and top talent, the future looks strong for professional pickleball.
The Mesa tournament brings excitement, strong players, and fun to fans, helping the sport continue to grow in the region and beyond.
News in Brief: Major League Pickleball Returns to Arizona
Major League Pickleball returned to Arizona for the first time since 2023, with matches hosted by the Phoenix Flames at Arizona Athletic Grounds in Mesa. The 2025 MLP Phoenix runs through Sunday. Fans and players enjoy the high energy, covered courts, and beautiful venue as the sport continues to grow quickly.