Pickleball’s Rise to Prominence: A Sport on the Move
The world of pickleball is experiencing unprecedented growth, with the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) reporting significant increases in attendance, player numbers, and salaries. The average annual salary for the over 60 women on the PPA Tour and Major League Pickleball has reached an impressive $260,000, surpassing that of the highest-paid WNBA player and more than double the average salary of National Women’s Soccer League athletes.
A Collective Effort
In the past, pro pickleball players faced challenges, including a proposed 40% pay cut. However, the formation of a collective and the subsequent merger of Major League Pickleball and the Professional Pickleball Association into the United Pickleball Association (UPA) has brought stability and growth to the sport. The UPA has attracted $75 million in outside investment, allowing the PPA Tour and Major League Pickleball to maintain their distinct brands while benefiting from cross-promotional opportunities.
Stars on the Rise
Talented players like 17-year-old Anna Leigh Waters, Federico Staksrud, and Ben Johns are leading the charge, helping to refine the sport and attract new fans. According to Samin Odhwani, UPA’s chief strategy officer, the merger has brought “immense efficiencies” and opened doors with sponsors, resulting in a 50% year-over-year increase in sponsorship business.
Viewership and Revenue on the Up
The UPA reported a 40% increase in attendance at PPA Tour and MLP events, with over 320,000 fans attending in 2024. Revenue from ticket sales has surpassed revenue from amateur registration, marking a significant milestone for the sport. Fans have also tuned in to 350 hours of pickleball television across various networks, with PickleballTV reporting over a billion minutes of viewed content.
A Bright Future Ahead
As the UPA looks to the future, priorities include expanding media rights partnerships, growing the amateur business, and building existing pros into household names. With its current momentum, pickleball is poised to become a major player in the world of sports.
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