Pickleball Trends: Live News, Events, and Industry Updates
Pickleball Trends – Live Industry Tracking
This page tracks verified, dated pickleball developments as they happen. Coverage is updated daily and organized chronologically, then archived monthly to preserve context without duplication. If you’re looking for what’s changing right now – tours, rules, gear, facilities, and the business behind the sport – you’re in the right place.
January 2026
Late-January coverage documented Indoor Nationals Championship Sunday outcomes, including singles champions and a five-game men’s doubles final. One post-match statement also confirmed a top player’s shift away from singles competition.
- Indoor Nationals Championship Sunday results
- Singles title outcomes and streak breaks
- Men’s doubles comeback finals
- Player format focus changes (singles vs doubles)
- Ranking implications tied to title wins
January 26, 2026
Today’s verified updates logged Indoor Nationals Championship Sunday medal results and one confirmed player format shift for 2026 coverage tracking.
Parris Todd wins Indoor Nationals women’s singles and announces singles pause (Published Jan 25, 2026)
On Jan 25, 2026, Pickleball Central Indoor National Championships coverage reported Parris Todd won women’s singles 11-5, 11-5 over Lea Jansen. Todd said she will focus solely on doubles for the foreseeable future, formally shifting how her 2026 results get tracked across formats.
- Parris Todd beat Lea Jansen 11-5, 11-5.
- Todd earned her fourth career PPA singles title.
- Todd said she will take a break from singles.
Links: Pickleball.com
Hunter Johnson wins Indoor Nationals men’s singles in straight games (Published Jan 25, 2026)
On Jan 25, 2026, Pickleball Central Indoor National Championships coverage reported Hunter Johnson won men’s singles 11-6, 11-0 over Chris Haworth. The result ended Haworth’s two-title streak and documented Johnson’s seventh career PPA men’s singles title.
- Johnson beat Chris Haworth 11-6, 11-0.
- The win was Johnson’s seventh career PPA singles title.
- Roscoe Bellamy won bronze 11-8, 11-7 over Dylan Frazier.
Links: Pickleball.com
Daescu and Tardio win Indoor Nationals men’s doubles after five-game comeback (Published Jan 25, 2026)
On Jan 25, 2026, Pickleball Central Indoor National Championships coverage reported Andrei Daescu and Gabe Tardio won men’s doubles in five games over Hayden Patriquin and Christian Alshon. The report stated Tardio will overtake Ben Johns for the top men’s doubles ranking after the title.
- Final score: 1-11, 14-12, 10-12, 11-8, 12-10.
- Daescu/Tardio trailed 2-8 in Game 5.
- The article stated Tardio will overtake Ben Johns in doubles.
Links: Pickleball.com
Coach Sid Takeaway: Championship Sunday results and documented format choices beat rumors when you plan scouting, training focus, or match prep.
January 25, 2026
Today’s verified updates covered a Championship Sunday broadcast window, a national-TV viewership record, and newly dated USA Pickleball paddle approvals.
Indoor Nationals Championship Sunday broadcast windows posted (Event Jan 25, 2026)
On Jan 25, 2026, PPA Tour listed Championship Sunday broadcast windows for Indoor Nationals in Lakeville. The defined time blocks clarify when finals and bronze matches will be streamed on PickleballTV.
- Championships listed 11:00 AM–5:00 PM ET on Humana Court.
- Bronze listed 10:00 AM–2:00 PM ET on Grandstand Court.
- Event listed at Life Time Lakeville, Minnesota.
Links: PPA Tour
CBS Carvana PPA Masters doubles broadcast sets viewership record (Published Jan 23, 2026)
On Jan 23, 2026, Pickleball.com reported CBS coverage averaged 791,000 viewers and peaked at 1,047,000. The numbers strengthen broadcast leverage for future rights, sponsorship pricing, and finals-day scheduling.
- CBS broadcast averaged 791,000 viewers.
- Peak viewership listed at 1,047,000 viewers.
- Coverage referenced men’s and women’s doubles gold matches.
Links: Pickleball.com
USA Pickleball approved paddle list adds new entries dated Jan 21 (List date Jan 21, 2026)
On Jan 21, 2026, USA Pickleball added multiple paddle models to its Approved Pickleball Paddle List with Pass status. New list dates can force last-minute legality checks because sanctioned play requires exact model-name matches.
- Hydro 14mm listed as Pass (List Date 01/21/2026).
- Glider listed as Pass (List Date 01/21/2026).
- Teflon evolve 16 listed as Pass (List Date 01/21/2026).
Links: USA Pickleball Approved Paddle List
Filed under: Gear
Coach Sid Takeaway: Posted windows and dated approvals matter most when you’re planning travel, viewing, or tournament gear checks.
January 24, 2026
Indoor Nationals updates focused on official semifinal timing, lineup absences, and bracket volatility heading into championship weekend.
Indoor Nationals semifinal broadcast window posted for Saturday (Event Jan 24, 2026)
On Jan 24, 2026, Pickleball Central Indoor National Championships listed semifinals from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM ET on Humana Court.
The posted window helps teams and fans align scouting and viewing around a single, defined Saturday slate.
Links: PPA Tour
PPA Minnesota preview notes Parris Todd return and key absences (Published Jan 19, 2026)
On Jan 19, 2026, PPA Tour coverage noted Parris Todd returned in Minnesota after a suspension.
It also stated Anna Leigh Waters, Ben Johns, and JW Johnson sat out, thinning several pro draws.
Links: Pickleball.com
Quarterfinal order of play posted for Friday at PPA Minnesota (Published Jan 23, 2026)
On Jan 23, 2026, Pickleball.com reported quarterfinal play across all five pro events in Lakeville.
It highlighted two top-four men’s singles seeds fell in the Round of 16, reshaping Friday’s bracket paths.
Links: Pickleball.com
January 23, 2026
Today’s verified updates documented Masters performance benchmarks, Indoor Nationals scheduling logistics, sponsor movement, and an APP senior-pro team calendar release.
PPA Tour publishes Masters finals stat wrap with rally and clean-winner benchmarks (Published Jan 20, 2026)
On Jan 20, 2026, PPA Tour published Masters finals stats, including an 88-shot women’s doubles rally.
The numbers create measurable baselines for pace and error control heading into Indoor Nationals week.
Links: PPA Tour
Indoor Nationals Thursday order of play and broadcast start confirmed (Published Jan 22, 2026)
On Jan 22, 2026, Pickleball.com posted Thursday’s Round of 16 order of play in Lakeville.
It confirmed broadcast coverage begins 10am CT, helping teams and fans plan viewing and scouting.
Links: Pickleball.com
Franklin Pickleball confirms a notable pro-family partnership split (Published Jan 22, 2026)
On Jan 22, 2026, Franklin Pickleball announced the end of its partnership with the Johnson family.
The split reshapes on-court brand visibility and opens new sponsorship inventory for early-season pro draws.
Links: Pickleball.com
APP announces the 2026 Humana Cup senior-pro team calendar (Published Jan 22, 2026)
On Jan 22, 2026, APP announced the 2026 Humana Cup calendar across seven tour events.
It locks in 50+ and 60+ team competition dates and signals captain drafts will happen in coming weeks.
Links: APP
Coach Sid Takeaway: Schedules and benchmarks are planning tools, use them to prepare, not to guess outcomes.
Filed under: Gear
January 22, 2026
Injury withdrawals, a Challenger rule experiment, and a Slam singles result added concrete competitive and format developments.
Will Howells withdraws from PPA Minnesota after ankle injury (Published Jan 20, 2026)
On Jan 20, 2026, Will Howells retired injured in Round of 64 singles and withdrew from mixed and men’s doubles.
The withdrawal advanced Victoria Simon and Mota Alhouni into the mixed doubles Round of 32 without playing.
Links: Pickleball.com
PPA Challenger Series to test narrowed singles courts at four events (Published Jan 21, 2026)
On Jan 21, 2026, PPA Challenger Series announced 17-foot singles courts for Houston, Harbour Island, Newport Beach, and Opelika.
The trial reduces width from 20 feet to 17 feet, aiming for longer points and event-level feedback.
Links: Pickleball.com
TYPTI launches as a new racquet sport built for pickleball courts (Published Jan 20, 2026)
On Jan 20, 2026, TYPTI launched as a new racquet sport played on a standard pickleball court.
It uses a 22-inch strung racquet and a 3.5-inch channeled foam ball, expanding court use without new construction.
Links: What is Typti?
Chris Haworth wins men’s singles at the Carvana PPA Masters (Published Jan 18, 2026)
On Jan 18, 2026, Chris Haworth won the PPA Masters men’s singles title, defeating Jack Sock 11-8, 11-8.
The win sets an early-season singles benchmark as rankings pressure shifts into the Indoor Nationals week.
Links: Pickleball.com
Coach Sid Takeaway: Injury updates and real rule tests change brackets fast, so verify availability and formats before you plan.
END
January 21, 2026
Team roster building, injury withdrawals, and major business funding headlines shaped today’s verified pickleball developments.
Howells withdraws from Indoor Nationals after ankle injury (Published Jan 20, 2026)
On Jan 20, 2026, Will Howells retired injured and withdrew from Indoor Nationals singles, men’s doubles, and mixed doubles.
His withdrawal advanced Victoria Simon and Mota Alhouni into the Round of 32 without playing.
Links: Pickleball.com
Palm Beach Royals appoint David Grossman as general manager (Published Jan 20, 2026)
On Jan 20, 2026, the Palm Beach Royals appointed David Grossman as general manager for their 2026 MLP debut.
The hire precedes the late-February Premier Level Free Agency Draft that will shape the franchise’s first roster.
Links: Pickleball.com
Selkirk raises $30M at ~$200M valuation (Published Jan 20, 2026)
On Jan 20, 2026, Selkirk announced a $30M growth equity investment valuing the company at about $200M.
The funding supports international expansion and continued product development while keeping the brand focused solely on pickleball.
Links: The Dink
Filed under: Gear
Watchlist
[Community Buzz]
RPM Pickleball told ambassadors it plans to release the Friction Pro V2 in early February 2026.
[Community Buzz]
11SIX24 Vapor Power 2: The Full-Foam Transition Industry eyes are on 11SIX24 this month as the first units of the Vapor Power 2 reach paddle reviewers. This launch is a major pivot for the brand, marking their debut into full-foam construction and introducing the proprietary HexGrit surface technology. While the original Vapor Power was celebrated for its ‘floating core’ hybrid build, the Vapor Power 2 aims to redefine their power tier with a more cohesive internal structure. With a public release slated for February 15, 2026, the current feedback loop among testers suggests this could be one of the most significant performance-value releases of early 2026.
January 20, 2026
Today’s validated items covered a Masters recap, Indoor Nationals transition details, and an official USA Pickleball field-testing compliance announcement.
Carvana PPA Masters recap highlights notable early-season performances (Published Jan 19, 2026)
On Jan 19, 2026, Carvana PPA Masters recap highlighted notable performances from the season’s opening tournament. The recap frames early-season storylines that shape attention heading into the next PPA stop.
Links: Pickleball.com
PPA Tour moves from Masters week into Indoor Nationals in Minnesota (Published Jan 19, 2026)
On Jan 19, 2026, PPA Tour previewed the Indoor National Championships stop in Lakeville, Minnesota. The indoor venue shift brings new partnerships and lineup changes for the tour’s second tournament week.
Links: Pickleball.com
USA Pickleball publishes official Golden Ticket paddle field-testing rollout details (Published Jan 16, 2026)
On Jan 16, 2026, USA Pickleball announced paddle field testing at Golden Ticket tournaments beginning in Glendale, Arizona. RFID stickers and scanable results add amateur equipment verification that can reduce disputes during sanctioned event checks.
Links: USA Pickleball
Filed under: Gear
January 19, 2026
Dated equipment-list updates and Masters finals reporting documented concrete legality and performance benchmarks heading into Indoor Nationals.
USA Pickleball approved paddle list adds Coda (H) by Chorus (List date Jan 18, 2026)
On Jan 18, 2026, USA Pickleball listed Coda (H) by Chorus as Pass. The dated entry can trigger last minute legality checks because sanctioned events require exact model matches.
Links: USA Pickleball Approved Equipment
Waters and Johns win PPA Masters mixed doubles in five games (Published Jan 18, 2026)
On Jan 18, 2026, Anna Leigh Waters and Ben Johns won PPA Masters mixed doubles in five games. The comeback result sets the tournament’s first major 2026 benchmark for top mixed teams entering Indoor Nationals.
Links: Pickleball.com
Waters wins PPA Masters women’s singles for her 40th career Triple Crown (Published Jan 18, 2026)
On Jan 18, 2026, Anna Leigh Waters beat Kate Fahey to win the PPA Masters women’s singles final. The win delivered her record extending 40th career Triple Crown, reinforcing sponsor visibility entering next week’s event.
Links: Pickleball.com
Filed under: Gear
Coach Sid Takeaway: Finals results plus list dated approvals are the only trends worth planning around this week.
January 18, 2026
Today’s verified items covered a tour schedule announcement, a Challenger event recap, and a dated paddle-sponsor signing.
APP Tour publishes AARP Champions and Masters schedules for 2026 (Published Jan 14, 2026)
On Jan 14, 2026, APP Tour announced AARP Champions and Masters schedules across all ten 2026 stops.
The dates lock planning windows for 50+ and 60+ divisions, including the AARP Open return in Seattle.
Links: APP Tour
Punta Gorda PPA Challenger recap posts full medalists and event field size (Published Jan 12, 2026)
On Jan 12, 2026, PPA Challenger Series recapped Punta Gorda with 396 players and a full medalist rundown.
The results show increasing depth, with no player winning multiple titles at the season’s opening Challenger event.
Links: Pickleball.com
Gabe Tardio signing adds Facolos to the pro sponsor board entering Masters week (Published Jan 15, 2026)
On Jan 15, 2026, Pickleball.com reported Gabe Tardio left PIKKL and signed with Facolos.
The move increases brand visibility pressure as more players change paddle relationships during early-season pro events.
Links: Pickleball.com
Filed under: Gear
Coach Sid Takeaway: Calendars, results, and sponsor notes are actionable facts; treat them like prep, not gossip.
January 17, 2026
Equipment compliance tightened with new onsite testing, fresh approved-list entries, and marketplace sales data reshaping gear attention.
USA Pickleball mandates onsite paddle testing at amateur events (Published Jan 16, 2026)
On Jan 16, 2026, The Dink reported USA Pickleball will require onsite paddle testing at amateur events.
The rollout starts with the 2026 Golden Ticket Tournament in Glendale, Arizona, and targets counterfeits and compliance.
Links: The Dink USA Pickleball Approved Paddles – Daily Updates
USA Pickleball approved paddle list adds new entries dated Jan 15–16 (List updated Jan 16, 2026)
USA Pickleball’s approved paddle list shows new entries dated Jan 16, 2026 (E4) and Jan 15, 2026 (thunder 10).
New list dates can force last minute legality checks because sanctioned events require exact model name matches.
Internal: USA Pickleball Approved Paddles – Daily Updates
Amazon pickleball paddle sales reach $43.5 million in 2025 (Published Jan 16, 2026)
On Jan 16, 2026, The Dink cited Speak Pickleball data: 687,000 paddles sold on Amazon in 2025.
The same dataset reports $43.5 million revenue, showing spending rose faster than unit sales year over year.
Links: The Dink
Coach Sid Takeaway: Compliance is moving to the venue; check your exact model name before you compete.
January 16, 2026
Today’s verified items centered on Indoor Nationals storylines and draws, plus a dated league rules update impacting roster usage.
PPA Tour publishes Indoor Nationals storylines and schedule anchors (Published Jan 15, 2026)
On Jan 15, 2026, PPA Tour published storylines and key schedule details for the Indoor National Championships. The post sets expectations for week-of viewing and helps teams align planning with official updates.
Links: PPA Tour
PPA Tour releases professional draws for Indoor Nationals (Published Jan 15, 2026)
On Jan 15, 2026, PPA Tour released professional draws for all five divisions for Indoor Nationals. Released draws clarify matchup paths and change how players and coaches plan scouting and prep.
Links: PPA Tour
MLP competition-structure rules update adds roster-usage detail (Published Jan 14, 2026)
On Jan 14, 2026, Major League Pickleball coverage noted the “steal” rule removal and broader six-player match usage. The change increases lineup strategy pressure and can shift how teams value roster flexibility.
Links: The Dink
Coach Sid Takeaway: Draws and league rules are planning documents; read them early so your week does not get decided for you.
January 15, 2026
Sponsorship and league-structure announcements added concrete business and competition-format changes heading deeper into the 2026 season.
Park Place Technologies becomes Official Technology Partner of PPA and MLP (Published Jan 13, 2026)
On Jan 13, 2026, Park Place Technologies was named Official Technology Partner of the PPA Tour and MLP.
The multi-year deal expands tech-backed tournament resources and adds a new national sponsor footprint across broadcasts and live events.
Links: PPA Tour
MLP returns to group play and expands Premier lineup usage for 2026 (Published Jan 14, 2026)
On Jan 14, 2026, Major League Pickleball detailed a return to group play for regular-season events.
The format and lineup changes alter weekly strategy and elevate the value of singles specialists in DreamBreaker situations.
Links: Pickleball.com
Yuta Funemizu signs with Diadem – Update: official signing release published (Announced Jan 07, 2026)
On Jan 7, 2026, Diadem Sports published an official announcement confirming its signing of Yuta Funemizu.
An official brand release formalizes athlete support and can reshape on-court paddle visibility during early-season events.
Links: Diadem Sports
Coach Sid Takeaway: League formats and sponsor deals reshape planning; verify rules and partners before you build your season calendar.
January 14, 2026
Today’s verified developments covered Masters broadcast timing, a major apparel sponsorship milestone, new paddle approvals, and facility-planning partnership infrastructure.
USA Pickleball names Ground Rule its Official Facility Development Partner (Published Jan 13, 2026)
On Jan 13, 2026, USA Pickleball named Ground Rule its Official Facility Development Partner. The partnership formalizes feasibility and planning support that can standardize how new facilities launch and scale.
Links: USA Pickleball
USA Pickleball approved paddle list adds new models dated Jan 13 (List date Jan 13, 2026)
On Jan 13, 2026, USA Pickleball added new approved paddles including FL-E-FOAM-K-N, J2CR, and Tide 14L. New approvals can change sanctioned-event legality checks because players must match exact model names.
Links: USA Pickleball Approved Paddle List
Carvana Masters broadcast schedule confirms CBS window before Pickleballtv (Published Jan 13, 2026)
On Jan 13, 2026, Pickleball.com reported CBS will air Championship Sunday coverage from 12–2 p.m. ET. A national window can raise sponsor exposure and concentrate viewing demand around finals-day matchups.
Links: Pickleball.com
Nike signs Anna Leigh Waters as its first-ever pickleball pro (Published Jan 13, 2026)
On Jan 13, 2026, Nike signed Anna Leigh Waters to a long-term apparel and footwear deal. The agreement establishes a new mainstream brand benchmark for player-facing sponsorship in pro pickleball.
Links: The Dink
Filed under: Gear
Coach Sid Takeaway: If you travel to compete, confirm broadcasts, facility expectations, and your exact approved model name before you arrive.
January 13, 2026
Official tour posts, approved-equipment updates, league business metrics, and team development hires set concrete benchmarks heading into Masters week.
Carvana Masters logistics and broadcast windows clarified (Published Jan 08, 2026)
On Jan 8, 2026, PPA Tour published Carvana Masters logistics, including 1,700+ players and progressive draw. It clarifies daily broadcast windows on PickleballTV, FS1, and CBS for travel and viewing plans.
Links: PPA Tour
USA Pickleball approved paddle list added multiple new models (List date Jan 09, 2026)
On Jan 9, 2026, USA Pickleball added new approved paddle models, including MONAD NEURAL CIRCUIT 16mm and Maestro. Sanctioned events require exact model name matches during checks, affecting what competitors can use.
Links: USA Pickleball Approved Paddle List
USA Pickleball named an Official Rollout Court Partner (Published Jan 09, 2026)
On Jan 9, 2026, USA Pickleball named Pickleball Management Group its Official Rollout Court Partner for three years. The partnership supports portable championship-court installations for Nationals and sanctioned events, reducing venue setup friction.
Links: USA Pickleball
PPA Tour and MLP reported 2025 business growth benchmarks (Released Jan 08, 2026)
On Jan 8, 2026, Major League Pickleball reported 2025 year-over-year growth across revenue, attendance, viewership, and media coverage. It provides benchmark metrics for sponsor sales and season planning ahead of early 2026 events.
Links: Major League Pickleball
Texas Ranchers formalized academy development leadership (Published Jan 09, 2026)
On Jan 9, 2026, Texas Ranchers appointed Michael Loyd as Head of Development for its academy program. The move formalizes team talent pipelines as MLP franchises invest in structured player development.
Links: Pickleball.com
Filed under: Gear
January 12, 2026
Tour statistical releases and league development staffing added concrete benchmarks and program changes heading into Masters week.
The ABC’s of 2025 publishes gold medal match benchmarks (Published Jan 06, 2026)
On Jan 6, 2026, PPA Tour published 2025 gold medal match stats for Anna Leigh Waters and Ben Johns.
Those benchmarks frame early season expectations for seeding narratives and what dominance looks like in 2026.
Links: PPA Tour
Texas Ranchers appoints Michael Loyd to lead academy development (Published Jan 09, 2026)
On Jan 9, 2026, Texas Ranchers named Michael Loyd Head of Development for its academy program.
The hire formalizes a player pipeline role as MLP teams invest in structured talent development.
Links: Pickleball.com 2024 MLP Draft Comprehensive Recap and Analysis
PPA Masters streaks list clarifies what records are in play (Published Jan 10, 2026)
On Jan 10, 2026, Pickleball.com detailed PPA Masters streaks entering the Jan 12–18 event in Palm Springs.
It supplies context for broadcast storylines and helps fans track which records are actually in play.
Links: Pickleball.com
January 11, 2026
Official updates covered court-rollout infrastructure partnerships and historical benchmark stats that frame early-season expectations.
USA Pickleball partners with Pickleball Management Group as Official Rollout Court Partner (Published Jan 09, 2026)
On Jan 09, 2026, USA Pickleball announced a three-year Official Rollout Court Partner agreement with Pickleball Management Group. The deal supports portable championship-court rollouts for Nationals and sanctioned events, reducing venue setup friction.
Links: USA Pickleball
PPA publishes pre-Waters benchmark records for women’s historical title progressions (Published Jan 08, 2026)
On Jan 08, 2026, PPA published historical women’s records showing Anna Leigh Waters entering 2026 with 57 singles titles. The figures reset context for dominance discussions and help readers compare today’s results to earlier tour benchmarks.
Links: PPA Tour
Coach Sid Takeaway: When the governing body standardizes courts, local tournaments can run faster with fewer setup surprises.
January 10, 2026
Today’s verified developments cover Masters-week logistics, sponsor-confirmed gear moves, new approved paddles, and league-reported 2025 growth metrics.
Anna Leigh Waters signs a long-term partnership with Franklin Sports (Announced Jan 08, 2026)
On Jan 08, 2026, Franklin Sports announced a long-term partnership with Anna Leigh Waters.
The deal shifts high-visibility gear alignment entering Masters week and influences what players expect to see on-court.
Links: Pickleball.com Franklin Aurelius C45
USA Pickleball approved paddle list adds multiple new models dated Jan 09 (List date Jan 09, 2026)
On Jan 09, 2026, USA Pickleball listed new approved models including MONAD NEURAL CIRCUIT 16mm and Mint Maestro.
New entries affect sanctioned-event checks because players must match exact model names, not just brand.
Links: USA Approved Paddle List USA Pickleball Approved Paddles – Daily Updates, New Models & Legal Status
MLP reports 2025 growth metrics, including record attendance and valuation benchmarks (Released Jan 08, 2026)
On Jan 08, 2026, Major League Pickleball reported over 60,000 total attendance at 2025 Worlds and MLP Cup.
The release documents measurable scale that strengthens sponsor sales narratives and future broadcast negotiations.
Links: Major League Pickleball
Carvana Masters storylines add logistical details: 1,700+ players and defined broadcast windows – Update (Published Jan 08, 2026)
On Jan 08, 2026, PPA Tour said The Carvana Masters has over 1,700 players and uses a progressive draw format.
Clear daily coverage windows on PickleballTV, FS1, and CBS tighten planning for scouting, travel, and viewing.
Links: PPA Tour
Filed under: Gear
Coach Sid Takeaway: The bracket, the broadcast window, and the exact paddle model name can all decide your weekend.
January 09, 2026
Official draw and storyline posts clarified Masters stakes and viewing plans, while approval lists added new tournament-legal paddle models.
Carvana Masters professional draws released for all five divisions
On Jan 8, 2026, PPA Tour released the Carvana Masters professional draws for five divisions.
Released draws finalize matchups and timing, helping players, fans, and coaches plan viewing and scouting.
Links: PPA Tour
Carvana Masters storylines confirm 2,000 points and CBS window
On Jan 8, 2026, PPA Tour said the Carvana Masters awards 2,000 points and airs on CBS.
Higher points and national TV increase pressure on early results and elevate sponsor exposure around top performers.
Links: PPA Tour
USA Pickleball adds GRÜVN full foam models to the approved paddle list
On Jan 7, 2026, USA Pickleball added four GRÜVN full foam models to its approved paddle list.
New approvals expand legal options, but players must match exact model names during tournament equipment checks.
Links: USA Pickleball Approved Paddle List
Yuta Funemizu signs with Diadem Pickleball
On Jan 8, 2026, Yuta Funemizu signed with Diadem Pickleball, per Pickleball.com.
The deal ties Japan’s top ranked pro to a new paddle brand entering the 2026 season.
Links: Pickleball.com
Filed under: Gear
Coach Sid Takeaway: Draws and approvals are paperwork with consequences; check brackets and model names before you travel.
January 08, 2026
Today’s verified items centered on roster-level change, international tour scheduling, and sponsor-linked gear visibility entering early-season play.
Filed under: Gear
Vivienne David announces retirement from pro competition
On Jan 06, 2026, Pickleball.com reported Vivienne David announced retirement from professional competition.
Her shift toward teaching removes a right-side veteran from draws and reshapes mixed-doubles partner planning.
Links: Pickleball.com
PPA Tour Asia announces its first three stops of 2026
On Jan 06, 2026, Pickleball.com said PPA Tour Asia will open 2026 in Hanoi, Kuala Lumpur, and Macao.
Early stop details lock travel planning and signal which regions will host 1000-point ranking opportunities.
Links: Pickleball.com
Anna Leigh Waters signals the end of a seven-year sponsor partnership
On Jan 06, 2026, Pickleball.com said Anna Leigh Waters and a longtime sponsor signaled a partnership end.
The split changes 2026 paddle visibility and raises attention on what she carries into the Jan 12–18 Masters.
Links: Pickleball.com
Coach Sid Takeaway: When sponsors shift, the gear story changes fast – verify what shows up on-court, not what people assume.
January 07, 2026
Today’s verified items focused on pro-season performance benchmarks and mainstream visibility signals tied to celebrity crossover.
Anna Leigh Waters’ 2025 gold-match dominance sets the 2026 benchmark
On Jan 07, 2026, Pickleball.com detailed Anna Leigh Waters’ 2025 gold-match stats and streaks.
The numbers reinforce her as the tour’s benchmark entering 2026 scouting, seeding expectations, and sponsor attention.
Links: Pickleball.com
Maroon 5’s James Valentine highlights pickleball’s celebrity crossover momentum
On Jan 07, 2026, Pickleball.com reported James Valentine has shifted from tennis to pickleball.
Celebrity conversion stories widen mainstream curiosity and can boost event attendance when fans follow.
Links: Pickleball.com
Coach Sid Takeaway: When visibility spikes, expect more new players with opinions before they have reps.
January 06, 2026
Today’s verified items focused on sponsor-linked gear visibility and USA Pickleball’s rule-and-document compliance enforcement.
Waters pictured with Franklin paddle and Nike apparel in a now-deleted post
On Jan 5, 2026, Pickleball.com reported Anna Leigh Waters was pictured with a Franklin paddle and Nike apparel.
The images change sponsor-talk context and affect what fans associate with her gear entering 2026.
Links: Pickleball.com
USA Pickleball warns referees not to translate official documents without authorization
On Dec 25, 2025, USA Pickleball issued a referee notice discouraging unauthorized translations of its Rulebook and related files.
The reminder reinforces compliance expectations and protects consistent rule language across sanctioned events and volunteer communications.
Links: USA Pickleball (Referee Notice)
Internal: USA Pickleball Approved Paddles 2025 – Daily Updates, New Models & Legal Status
Coach Sid Takeaway: When rules tighten, details matter more than opinions – verify what’s official before you repeat it.
January 05, 2026
Sponsor movement, enforcement follow-through, and equipment compliance tooling dominated today’s verified developments.
Anna Leigh Waters and other pros shift paddle sponsors entering 2026
On Jan 4, 2026, Pickleball.com listed notable 2026 paddle sponsor moves, including Waters and Christian Tardio.
These changes affect on court equipment visibility and can influence consumer demand for specific paddle brands.
Links: Pickleball.com
United Pickleball Association denial ends a termination appeal for three players
On Jan 2, 2026, The Dink reported the UPA denied the appeal filed by Ignatowich, Fu, and Glozman.
The outcome clarifies immediate player eligibility and reinforces how disputes are resolved inside tour governance.
Links: The Dink
USA Pickleball updates its approved paddle search tool plan ahead of mid-January launch
On Dec 31, 2025, USA Pickleball posted an update on its new approved paddle search tool.
A clearer search tool can reduce last minute legality confusion during checks at sanctioned and Golden Ticket events.
Links: USA Pickleball
January 04, 2026
Tour discipline, equipment certification updates, and mainstream media exposure led today’s verified developments.
UPA sanctions keep Parris Todd out of early-season draws
- On Jan 1, 2026, Pickleball.com said UPA fined Parris Todd $50,000 and suspended her two events. The sanction removes her from early draws and reinforces tour enforcement around overseas participation approvals. Links: Pickleball.com
USA Pickleball approved paddle list adds new models on December 31
- On Dec 31, 2025, USA Pickleball’s approved paddle list added models like 20×44 HD and Gherkin Draco. New list entries change tournament legality checks and can force last minute gear swaps for competitors. Links: USAP List
Before you travel, verify your exact model on the list, not the brand name.
Internal: USA Pickleball Approved Paddles 2025
ESPN SportsCenter highlights pro pickleball in Year in Review
- On Dec 29, 2025, Pickleball.com reported ESPN SportsCenter included a Kate Fahey highlight in ‘Year in Review’. Mainstream airtime increases sponsor visibility and signals pickleball content is entering broader sports programming. Links: Pickleball.com
Coach Sid Takeaway: When mainstream clips hit, expect new players to show up already emotionally invested.
That’s the January pattern: enforcement changes who’s in the bracket, lists change what’s legal, and the spotlight changes who shows up next. Stay ready
January 03, 2026
Today’s verified updates center on early event demand, international tour branding, and a notable sponsor-player separation.
Carvana Masters demand tightens key days
On December 30, 2025, Pickleball.com reported that several ticketed days for the Carvana Masters were already nearing sellout. High early demand pressures travel planning and pushes amateur registration decisions sooner than typical.
Links: Pickleball.com
Coach Sid Takeaway: When tickets tighten, your planning window shrinks – treat logistics like training.
PPA Tour Asia unveils 2026 medal design
On January 2, 2026, PPA Tour Asia revealed a three-piece interlocking medal set featuring a dragon motif across gold, silver, and bronze tiers. Distinct visual branding reinforces tour identity and gives players a season-long target.
Links: Pickleball.com
Coach Sid Takeaway: Clear tour identity adds meaning to podium goals – and players respond to defined targets.
Sypik Pickleball announces it is moving on from Quang Duong
On January 2, 2026, Pickleball.com reported that Sypik Pickleball announced it is moving on from Quang Duong. Sponsorship changes can significantly affect athlete visibility, support systems, and competitive stability.
Links: Pickleball.com
Coach Sid Takeaway: Off-court stability matters – when the sponsor changes, the player’s support system can change too.
January 02, 2026
Verified updates today focus on tour expansion and rule changes that officially govern 2026 competition.
APP outlines expanded 2026 tour footprint
On December 23, 2025, the APP announced its 2026 tour will feature 20 events across 18 states. The expansion increases ranking-point opportunities while raising travel and cost demands for touring pros.
Links: APP Tour
Coach Sid Takeaway: More tour stops mean more chances – but travel planning becomes part of performance.
Major League Pickleball releases full 2026 season schedule
On December 22, 2025, MLP published its 2026 season schedule, opening May 22-25 in Dallas. The release locks in training blocks, travel windows, and early fan ticket planning.
Links: Major League Pickleball
Coach Sid Takeaway: When the calendar drops, serious players build backward from it.
USA Pickleball rule updates take effect January 1, 2026
On December 26, 2025, The Dink summarized seven USA Pickleball rule updates that became effective January 1, 2026. Clarifications address serve legality, pre-serve motion, and prompt out calls.
Links: The Dink
Coach Sid Takeaway: The ref does not care about last year’s habits – know the updates.
Internal: Pickleball Serving Rules: Coach Sid’s Guide
January 01, 2026
Major League Pickleball announces 2026 finale at Walt Disney World
On January 1, 2026, Major League Pickleball confirmed its 2026 regular-season finale will be held July 30-August 2 at ESPN Wide World of Sports, Walt Disney World.
Links: Laughing Place
Coach Sid Takeaway: Destination venues change fan turnout and media attention – expect bigger spotlights.
Austin racket sports surge includes pickleball facility growth
On January 1, 2026, Community Impact Austin reported expansion across pickleball and padel facilities, including new Picklr locations. Shared-court demand continues to reshape metro-area access.
Links: Community Impact Austin
Coach Sid Takeaway: Court access trends matter – more venues mean more play, leagues, and growth.
Watchlist
Early-season tournament registrations
[Community Buzz] Registration activity for January and February tournaments suggests strong early-season demand. No qualifying multi-source confirmation met publication rules today.
Coach Sid again. The season doesn’t start when you show up – it starts when you plan like it already matters. Revisit the pickleball trends that shaped the industry in 2025.