Yuta Funemizu is a trailblazing Japanese athlete who transitioned from a decorated soft tennis career to professional pickleball. In 2024, he became the first Japanese player to sign an exclusive contract with the Carvana PPA Tour and Major League Pickleball (MLP), marking a significant milestone in the sport’s globalization. Known for his agility and unique volleying style, Funemizu has quickly made his mark on the international pickleball scene.
Early Life
Born in Tokyo, Japan, Yuta Funemizu embarked on his athletic journey with soft tennis, a sport in which he achieved remarkable success. He clinched the title of World Champion at the Soft Tennis World Championships and secured ten consecutive championships in the Japan Soft Tennis League. In January 2024, seeking new challenges, Funemizu relocated to the United States to pursue a career in professional pickleball. His transition was swift; within months, he competed in 23 tournaments, reaching the Round of 32 in several PPA Tour events and notably defeating Collin Johns in a mixed doubles match at the PPA Masters.
Family Life
While specific details about Yuta Funemizu’s immediate family are not publicly disclosed, his athletic lineage is notable. His younger brother, Hayato Funemizu, is also an accomplished soft tennis player, having represented Japan in various international competitions, including the Asian Games. This familial connection underscores a strong sporting tradition within the Funemizu family.
Career
Transition from Soft Tennis to Pickleball
Yuta Funemizu’s switch from soft tennis to pickleball in 2024 marked a significant career shift. His background in soft tennis provided a solid foundation for the skills required in pickleball, facilitating a rapid adaptation to the new sport.
Professional Pickleball Achievements
Since his debut, Funemizu has participated in 15 professional tournaments, playing a total of 43 matches as of April 2025. His win-loss records are as follows:
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Men’s Doubles: 11 wins – 32 losses
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Men’s Singles: 5 wins – 12 losses
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Mixed Doubles: 5 wins – 13 losses
These statistics reflect his ongoing development and competitiveness in the professional pickleball circuit.
International Representation
Funemizu has also represented Japan in international pickleball competitions. Notably, he secured a silver medal in Men’s Singles at the Asia Pickleball Games 2024 in Taiwan and won gold medals in Men’s Doubles (Skill Division) and Mixed Doubles (Open Division) at the PJF Pickleball Championships 2024 in Japan.
Major League Pickleball Draft
In a significant career milestone, Yuta Funemizu was selected by the Miami Pickleball Club during the MLP Premier Level Free Agency Draft. This selection underscores his rising prominence in the sport and his potential to contribute significantly to his team’s success.
Net Worth
As of now, there is no publicly available information regarding Yuta Funemizu’s net worth. Given his recent entry into professional pickleball and ongoing career development, financial details have not been disclosed.
