News & Stories
Feb 2, 2025
The pickleball revolution is taking Asia by storm, and the excitement is absolutely electric! What started as America's fastest-growing sport is now creating huge waves across the Pacific, with 2024 marking an incredible year of expansion that's set to explode in 2025.
"This is just the beginning of something truly special," says PWR CEO Pranav Kohli, who made headlines with a jaw-dropping announcement in Dubai that has the pickleball world buzzing – a whopping $15 million prize purse for their World Series events!
Stars Align Down Under
The momentum kicked off in February 2024 when the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) announced their Australian tour, transforming Pacific Pickleball into something bigger and better. And talk about star power! The land down under is already attracting some of America's brightest talents, with fan favorites Kyle Yates, Michelle Esquivel, and Shelby Bates making the exciting journey for MLP Australia's second season.
India's Pickleball Paradise
But hold onto your paddles, because India is where the action is really heating up! The country crowned its first superstar when Armaan Bhatia achieved the incredible – a triple crown victory at the PWR's New Delhi tournament. This wasn't just a win; it was a statement that India is ready to dominate the global pickleball scene!
And guess who's paying attention? None other than tennis legend Andre Agassi himself, who showed up to support the PWR DUPR India League's star-studded lineup announcement. With top pros like Munro, Goldin, and Fudge signing up for 2025, India is becoming a must-play destination for the world's best!
(Photo Source: https://ekonomik.sanok.pl/Pickleball-takes-spotlight-with-Andre-Agassi-tennis-icons-a-6803751.htm)
Asia Goes All In!
The excitement doesn't stop there! The PPA and MLP are bringing their magic to China, Vietnam, Japan, and Singapore. Picture this: iconic venues, top-tier tournaments, and an October marquee event that will bring together the best players from around the globe. Now that's what we call going global!
A New Era of Competition
The sport is absolutely buzzing with healthy competition as multiple leagues vie for supremacy. The World Pickleball League (WPBL) is making waves in Mumbai, bringing in US stars like Irizarry, Sobek, and Lane. Meanwhile, the United Pickleball Association is planning five massive international events spanning Australia, India, Canada, Asia, and Europe in 2025.
(Photo Source: https://www.ppatour.com/upa-announces-further-international-expansion/)
What's Next? The Sky's the Limit!
With prize money reaching new heights ($1.5 million per PWR World Series event!), more pros than ever are packing their paddles and heading east. The sport that once lived in community centers and backyards is now filling stadiums across Asia!
"This is a watershed moment for pickleball," industry insiders are saying, and who can argue? With multiple professional leagues, massive prize purses, and growing local talent, Asia isn't just joining the pickleball party – it's leading the celebration!
Whether you're a seasoned pro or just picking up a paddle for the first time, one thing's crystal clear: pickleball in Asia isn't just growing – it's absolutely thriving! The only question left is: are you ready to join the excitement? Because 2025 is shaping up to be the biggest year yet for this incredible sport!
Stay tuned, paddle fans – this is only the beginning of pickleball's amazing journey across Asia!
