Pickleball Professional Player Sues MLP: Professional tennis and pickleball athlete Rianna Valdes has filed a lawsuit against Major League Pickleball Inc. (MLP) in Los Angeles Superior Court, alleging wrongful termination, breach of contract, and failure to pay wages. The lawsuit accuses MLP of financially motivated termination after Valdes raised concerns about delayed payments under her contract.
The suit includes claims of fraud and wrongful business practices. Valdes, 28, is seeking compensatory and punitive damages, though specific amounts have not been disclosed. A representative from MLP has yet to respond to inquiries regarding the lawsuit, which was filed Wednesday.
Details of the Dispute
According to the complaint, Valdes signed a contract with MLP in August 2023, agreeing to an annual salary of $150,000 for 2024-26. Her obligations included participation in MLP-hosted events, exclusive endorsements, and promotions for the league. Despite meeting these terms, Valdes alleges that MLP failed to pay her agreed monthly salary of $12,500 on time earlier this year.
When Valdes raised concerns about the overdue payments, MLP responded with a vague claim that she had not attended the required events. In July, after she continued to press for payment, MLP terminated her contract without addressing her demands for unpaid wages, according to the lawsuit.
Financial Motives Questioned
Valdes’ lawsuit claims that MLP’s financial troubles were the driving force behind her termination. The complaint alleges that MLP attempted to renegotiate her contract with a lower payout and terminated her when she refused the offer. Additionally, the suit states that MLP misclassified players as independent contractors, enabling the league to control player activities while avoiding proper contractual obligations.
Despite MLP’s requirement for arbitration, Valdes asserts that she has the right to pursue her claims in court due to the organization’s refusal to engage in arbitration proceedings.
A Growing League Under Scrutiny
MLP, established in 2021, has positioned itself as a hub for professional pickleball with 22 hometown teams and nearly 100 top-ranked players. The league is split into two levels: Premier, featuring the top 48 players, and Challenger, highlighting the next 40 aspiring professionals.
MLP’s strategy to sign lucrative contracts with players like Valdes has been integral to its growth but is now the subject of legal controversy. As this case continues, it could set a significant precedent for player rights and contract enforcement within the emerging professional pickleball landscape.
News in Brief: Pickleball Professional Player Sues MLP
Professional pickleball player Rianna Valdes has filed a lawsuit against Major League Pickleball, alleging wrongful termination and breach of contract. Valdes claims she was fired after pressing for unpaid wages from her $150,000 annual contract.
The lawsuit also accuses MLP of financial mismanagement and misclassifying players as independent contractors. Valdes argues her termination was financially motivated, as MLP sought to renegotiate contracts amid financial strain. The lawsuit highlights potential issues with player contracts in a growing professional league.
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