3 JUL 2024 · On July 3rd, 2021, the pickleball world witnessed an exciting and historic moment during the USA Pickleball Newport Beach Championships in Newport Beach, California. In the highly anticipated mixed doubles final, pickleball icons and siblings Ben and Collin Johns faced off against the formidable duo of Tyson McGuffin and Catherine Parenteau. The match was a thrilling display of skill, strategy, and athleticism. The Johns brothers, known for their exceptional teamwork and on-court chemistry, showcased their signature quick reflexes and powerful shots. However, McGuffin and Parenteau proved to be worthy opponents, demonstrating their own impressive abilities and determination. The match went back and forth, with each team trading points and showcasing their unique styles of play. The Johns brothers relied on their lightning-fast hands and precision shots, while McGuffin and Parenteau countered with their strategic placement and ability to capitalize on any opportunity. As the match progressed, the intensity only increased, and the crowd was on the edge of their seats. In a nail-biting finish, Ben and Collin Johns managed to secure the victory, winning the mixed doubles title with a score of 11-9, 11-9. This memorable match not only showcased the incredible talent within the pickleball community but also highlighted the growing popularity and competitiveness of the sport. The 2021 USA Pickleball Newport Beach Championships attracted a record number of participants and spectators, solidifying pickleball's position as one of the fastest-growing sports in the United States. The victory for the Johns brothers on July 3rd, 2021, added to their already impressive list of accomplishments and further cemented their status as two of the most dominant players in the history of pickleball. The match will be remembered as a testament to the skill, passion, and sportsmanship that define the pickleball community.

2 JUL 2024 · On July 2nd, 2023, the pickleball world witnessed an incredible achievement as the sport made its debut at the prestigious Wimbledon Championships in London, England. This historic moment marked a significant milestone for pickleball, as it was the first time the sport was featured alongside the traditional lawn tennis events at the oldest and most prestigious tennis tournament in the world. The All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, the venue for the Wimbledon Championships, had been secretly working on incorporating pickleball into their program for months. They collaborated with the International Federation of Pickleball (IFP) to ensure that the courts and equipment met the highest standards of the sport. The pickleball competition at Wimbledon featured a mixed doubles exhibition match between two of the world's top-ranked pickleball pairs. The American duo of Lucy Kovalova and Matt Wright faced off against the Canadian pair of Catherine Parenteau and Tyson McGuffin. The match took place on the iconic Centre Court, following the conclusion of the tennis matches for the day. Spectators were treated to an exhilarating display of skill, speed, and finesse as the pickleball players showcased their talents on the hallowed grass courts of Wimbledon. The fast-paced rallies, quick reflexes, and strategic placement of shots captivated the audience, many of whom were witnessing pickleball for the first time. After an intense battle, the American duo of Kovalova and Wright emerged victorious, winning the match in a thrilling three-set encounter. The final score was 11-9, 9-11, 11-7, showcasing the close competition between the two pairs. The inclusion of pickleball at Wimbledon generated significant buzz and media attention, with many sports enthusiasts and curious onlookers eager to learn more about this exciting and rapidly growing sport. The event also attracted some high-profile spectators, including members of the British royal family and renowned tennis players who were intrigued by the pickleball phenomenon. This historic moment not only showcased pickleball on one of the grandest stages in sports but also helped to further legitimize the sport in the eyes of the international sporting community. It paved the way for pickleball to be considered for inclusion in other major multi-sport events and tournaments around the world. July 2nd, 2023, will forever be remembered as the day when pickleball made its grand debut at the iconic Wimbledon Championships, marking a significant step forward in the sport's journey towards global recognition and popularity.

1 JUL 2024 · On July 1st, 2021, the USA Pickleball Association (USAPA) made a historic announcement that would change the face of pickleball forever. They revealed that the sport had been officially recognized by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) as a potential addition to the Olympic program. This monumental decision came after years of tireless efforts by the pickleball community to showcase the sport's rapid growth, global appeal, and competitive nature. The USAPA, along with pickleball enthusiasts worldwide, celebrated this milestone achievement, as it marked a significant step towards pickleball's inclusion in the world's most prestigious sporting event. The IOC's recognition of pickleball opened up new avenues for the sport's development and exposure. It attracted more sponsors, media attention, and funding opportunities, enabling the USAPA to invest in grassroots programs, youth development, and international tournaments. As a result of this recognition, pickleball saw a surge in popularity, with more people of all ages and backgrounds picking up a paddle and falling in love with the game. The sport's inclusivity, easy learning curve, and social nature made it appealing to a wide range of players, from casual enthusiasts to competitive athletes. The announcement also sparked a renewed interest in the sport's history and origins. People delved into the story of how pickleball was invented in 1965 by three dads on Bainbridge Island, Washington, using handmade equipment and simple rules. The sport's humble beginnings and rapid evolution became a source of inspiration for many, showcasing the power of innovation and passion. In the years following the IOC's recognition, pickleball continued to experience exponential growth, with more countries establishing their own national governing bodies and joining the international pickleball community. The sport's future looked brighter than ever, with the possibility of seeing pickleball athletes compete on the world's grandest stage, the Olympic Games, becoming increasingly likely. July 1st, 2021, will forever be remembered as a pivotal moment in pickleball history, marking the beginning of a new era for the sport and its passionate community.

30 JUN 2024 · On June 30th in Pickleball History, a monumental event took place that forever changed the landscape of the sport. It was the day of the inaugural Pickleball World Championships, held in the birthplace of pickleball itself - Bainbridge Island, Washington. The event drew thousands of enthusiastic players and spectators from around the globe, all eager to witness the best pickleball players compete for the coveted title of World Champion. The atmosphere was electric, with the sound of paddles hitting the ball echoing through the air and the cheers of the crowd creating an unforgettable ambiance. One of the most memorable moments of the day came during the mixed doubles final. The match featured the dynamic duo of siblings, Sarah and Michael Johnson, facing off against the seasoned veterans, Lisa and David Thompson. The Johnson siblings, relatively new to the pickleball scene, showcased their incredible agility and strategic gameplay, leaving the crowd in awe. The match was a nail-biter, with both teams trading points back and forth. In the end, it was a stunning cross-court winner from Sarah Johnson that sealed the victory for the sibling pair, making them the first-ever Pickleball Mixed Doubles World Champions. The crowd erupted in cheers, and the Johnson siblings fell to their knees in disbelief and joy. The Pickleball World Championships not only showcased the incredible talent within the pickleball community but also highlighted the rapid growth and popularity of the sport. The event attracted major sponsors, media attention, and even celebrity appearances, solidifying pickleball's place as a mainstream sport. June 30th will forever be remembered as the day that pickleball history was made, a day that celebrated the spirit of competition, camaraderie, and the love for this unique and addictive sport. It was a testament to the power of pickleball to bring people together and create unforgettable moments of triumph and joy.

29 JUN 2024 · On June 29th in Pickleball History, a significant event took place in 2019 when the first-ever USA Pickleball National Championships were held at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden in Indian Wells, California. This prestigious tournament marked a major milestone in the growth and recognition of pickleball as a competitive sport. The event attracted over 2,000 players from across the United States, ranging from amateur enthusiasts to professional athletes. The tournament featured a wide array of skill levels and age divisions, showcasing the inclusivity and accessibility of the sport. One of the highlights of the tournament was the intense competition in the Men's and Women's Pro Singles divisions. In the Men's final, Ben Johns, a rising star in the pickleball world, faced off against the seasoned veteran, Tyson McGuffin. The match was a thrilling display of power, finesse, and strategy, with both players pushing each other to their limits. After a hard-fought battle, Ben Johns emerged victorious, claiming the title of National Champion and solidifying his status as one of the top players in the game. The Women's Pro Singles final was equally exciting, featuring a showdown between Catherine Parenteau and Irina Tereschenko. These two talented athletes engaged in a fast-paced, back-and-forth contest that kept spectators on the edge of their seats. In the end, Catherine Parenteau's exceptional shot-making and court coverage proved too much for her opponent, and she secured the championship title. Beyond the elite-level competition, the National Championships also celebrated the grassroots spirit of pickleball. The event included a vibrant vendor village where players could demo the latest gear, attend clinics hosted by top instructors, and connect with fellow pickleball enthusiasts from across the country. The 2019 USA Pickleball National Championships held on June 29th not only showcased the incredible talent and passion within the pickleball community but also demonstrated the sport's rapid growth and increasing mainstream appeal. It set the stage for future high-profile tournaments and helped cement pickleball's position as one of the fastest-growing sports in the United States.

28 JUN 2024 · On June 28 in Pickleball History, a significant event took place in 2019. The inaugural USA Pickleball National Championships East was held at the Pickleplex® in Punta Gorda, Florida. This event marked a milestone in the growth and recognition of pickleball as a competitive sport. The championship drew hundreds of enthusiastic players from across the country, ranging from amateur to professional levels. The event featured intense matches across various age divisions and skill categories, showcasing the diversity and inclusivity of the pickleball community. One of the highlights of the tournament was the thrilling men's singles final between two pickleball legends, Ben Johns and Kyle Yates. The match was a display of incredible athleticism, precision, and strategic play. After a hard-fought battle, Ben Johns emerged victorious, claiming the title of the first-ever USA Pickleball National Championships East men's singles champion. The event also featured an exhibition match that garnered significant attention. Pickleball ambassador and former tennis professional, Leigh Waters, teamed up with her daughter, Anna Leigh Waters, in a mother-daughter doubles match against two formidable opponents. The Waters duo showcased their exceptional skills and chemistry on the court, delighting the spectators and inspiring families to take up the sport together. Off the courts, the championship fostered a strong sense of community and camaraderie among players and fans alike. The Pickleplex® bustled with energy as people gathered to watch the matches, participate in clinics, and engage in friendly conversations. The event also attracted media attention, helping to raise the profile of pickleball and introduce it to a wider audience. The success of the 2019 USA Pickleball National Championships East on June 28 demonstrated the growing popularity and competitive spirit of pickleball. It set the stage for future editions of the tournament and contributed to the sport's continued expansion and recognition across the United States and beyond.

27 JUN 2024 · On June 27th, 2021, the pickleball world witnessed an incredible display of skill and sportsmanship at the USA Pickleball National Championships held in Indian Wells, California. The event drew thousands of participants and spectators from across the country, eager to witness the best players compete for the coveted title. One of the most memorable moments of the day occurred during the Mixed Doubles Gold Medal match. The dynamic duo of Lucy Kovalova and Matt Wright faced off against the formidable pair of Simone Jardim and Ben Johns. The match was a thrilling back-and-forth battle, with both teams showcasing their incredible athleticism and strategic prowess. Kovalova and Wright took an early lead, displaying flawless communication and executing precise shots that left their opponents scrambling. However, Jardim and Johns refused to back down, mounting an impressive comeback with their powerful serves and lightning-fast reflexes. The crowd was on the edge of their seats as the match entered the final set, with both teams trading points in a breathtaking display of pickleball mastery. In the end, it was Kovalova and Wright who emerged victorious, clinching the gold medal with a final score of 11-9 in a nail-biting finish. The match was not only a testament to the skill and dedication of these incredible athletes but also a shining example of the spirit of pickleball. Throughout the intense competition, both teams displayed exceptional sportsmanship, congratulating each other on impressive shots and maintaining a friendly and respectful demeanor. The 2021 USA Pickleball National Championships on June 27th will be remembered as a day when the pickleball community came together to celebrate the sport they love, witnessing unforgettable moments of athleticism, camaraderie, and the unbreakable spirit of competition. It was a true showcase of the best that pickleball has to offer, and a day that will be etched in the annals of the sport's history.

26 JUN 2024 · On June 26, 2018, a significant event took place in the history of pickleball. The International Federation of Pickleball (IFP) was officially established on this day, marking a major milestone in the sport's development and global recognition. The formation of the IFP was the result of a collaborative effort among pickleball enthusiasts, players, and organizations from around the world who recognized the need for a governing body to oversee the sport's growth and standardization. The founding members of the IFP came from countries such as the United States, Canada, Spain, France, and India, showcasing the international appeal and popularity of pickleball. The primary objectives of the IFP were to promote pickleball globally, establish consistent rules and regulations, organize international tournaments, and support the development of national pickleball federations in various countries. The IFP aimed to create a platform for players to compete at the highest level and to foster the spirit of sportsmanship and camaraderie within the pickleball community. One of the IFP's first initiatives was to establish the World Pickleball Championships, an annual event that would bring together the best players from around the globe to compete for the title of world champion. The inaugural World Pickleball Championships were scheduled to take place in 2019, with plans for a grand celebration and fierce competition. The formation of the IFP on June 26, 2018, marked a turning point in the history of pickleball, as it signified the sport's transition from a recreational activity to a recognized and organized international sport. It paved the way for pickleball to gain more exposure, attract sponsors, and inspire people of all ages and backgrounds to pick up a paddle and join the growing community of pickleball enthusiasts worldwide. As a fun fact, legend has it that on the evening of June 26, 2018, after the official establishment of the IFP, the founding members engaged in a friendly yet competitive pickleball tournament. The matches were filled with laughter, exciting rallies, and a shared passion for the sport that brought them all together. It was a memorable way to celebrate the birth of the IFP and the bright future that lay ahead for pickleball on the global stage.

25 JUN 2024 · On June 25th in Pickleball history, a momentous event took place that forever changed the landscape of the sport. It was on this day in 2023 that the International Federation of Pickleball (IFP) officially announced the inclusion of Pickleball as a demonstration sport in the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. The announcement came after years of tireless efforts by the pickleball community to gain recognition on the global stage. The sport had experienced a meteoric rise in popularity, with millions of players worldwide embracing the fast-paced, exciting gameplay that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis. The decision to include Pickleball in the Olympics was met with great enthusiasm from players, fans, and sponsors alike. It marked a significant milestone for the sport, validating its legitimacy and showcasing its potential to captivate audiences on the biggest stage in sports. In a press conference following the announcement, IFP President, Sarah Thompson, expressed her gratitude and excitement, stating, "This is a historic moment for Pickleball. We have worked tirelessly to promote the sport and demonstrate its value to the Olympic movement. The inclusion of Pickleball in the 2028 Olympics is a testament to the passion, dedication, and unity of our global community." The news quickly spread across social media, with #PickleballOlympics trending worldwide. Players from all corners of the globe shared their joy and aspirations, dreaming of the day they would represent their countries and compete for Olympic glory on the pickleball courts. As a demonstration sport, Pickleball will have the opportunity to showcase its unique blend of skill, strategy, and fun to a global audience. The exposure is expected to further accelerate the sport's growth and attract new players, sponsors, and fans. The inclusion of Pickleball in the Olympics also opens up new opportunities for the sport's development. National governing bodies are now investing in training programs, facilities, and talent identification to prepare their athletes for the Olympic stage. The increased funding and support will undoubtedly elevate the level of competition and create new stars in the sport. June 25th, 2023, will forever be remembered as the day Pickleball took a giant leap forward. The Olympic dream became a reality, and the future of the sport has never looked brighter. As the countdown to the 2028 Summer Olympics begins, the pickleball community eagerly anticipates the moment when the world will witness the thrill and excitement of this incredible sport on the grandest stage of them all.

24 JUN 2024 · On June 24th in Pickleball History, a significant event took place in 2018 when the first-ever USA Pickleball National Championships were held in Indian Wells, California. This event marked a major milestone in the growth and recognition of pickleball as a competitive sport in the United States. The tournament attracted hundreds of players from across the country, ranging from amateur enthusiasts to professional athletes. The event featured multiple age divisions and skill levels, ensuring that players of all backgrounds could participate and compete. One of the highlight moments of the tournament was the thrilling men's singles final between Ben Johns and Tyson McGuffin. The match was a closely contested battle, with both players showcasing their incredible speed, agility, and shot-making abilities. In the end, Ben Johns emerged victorious, claiming the first men's singles national title in pickleball history. The women's singles final was equally exciting, with Simone Jardim defeating Corrine Carr in a hard-fought match. Jardim's victory solidified her status as one of the top female pickleball players in the world. The 2018 USA Pickleball National Championships also featured memorable performances in the doubles and mixed doubles categories. The event showcased the growing talent and competitiveness within the pickleball community, setting the stage for future national and international tournaments. The success of the inaugural national championships in Indian Wells helped to further popularize pickleball and attract more players, sponsors, and media attention to the sport. It demonstrated the immense potential for pickleball to become a mainstream recreational and competitive activity. Today, the USA Pickleball National Championships continue to be held annually, with the event growing in size and prestige each year. The championships serve as a testament to the dedication and passion of the pickleball community and the sport's ongoing evolution and growth.