In an exciting development for pickleball enthusiasts, Major League Pickleball (MLP) has announced its first international expansion through a strategic partnership with Pacific Pickleball League (PPL) in Australia. This collaboration aims to elevate the sport’s popularity and provide a platform for elite players to showcase their skills on a global stage.
New Teams and Rebranding:
Pacific Pickleball League, which launched Australia’s first professional pickleball league, will now see its teams rebranded as Major League Pickleball Australia. The four teams—Sydney Smash, Melbourne Mavericks, Brisbane Breakers, and Gold Coast Glory—will continue to compete in the MLP format, known for its electrifying team events.
Growing Popularity:
Pickleball, the fastest-growing sport in the U.S., has experienced a surge in popularity in Australia. With an estimated 25,000 players already participating and membership doubling in the last 12 months, the sport is capturing the attention of sports enthusiasts across the country.
Record Prize Money:
The partnership between MLP and PPL will raise the stakes for pickleball in Australia. Major League Pickleball Australia plans to distribute close to a million dollars in cash prizes over the next year, attracting top talent and fostering the growth of the sport in the region.
MLP Format and Events:
MLP events feature men’s doubles, women’s doubles, and two rounds of mixed doubles, with each match worth one point. The first team to earn three points emerges victorious. Games are played in a fan-friendly “rally scoring format” where points are won regardless of the server. In case of a tie, a unique “Dreambreaker” tiebreaker determines the winner.
Future Prospects:
The inaugural Major League Pickleball Australia event is scheduled to take place in Brisbane from September 8-10. Subsequent events in Melbourne and Sydney are planned for later in the year, promising high-level competition and the largest prize money in the southern hemisphere.
Impact and Recognition:
The explosive growth of pickleball in Australia has created a demand for professional events. Pacific Pickleball was officially recognized as the professional pickleball league of Australia in partnership with the Pickleball Australia Association. This partnership aims to capitalize on the sport’s momentum and foster its continued growth.
The expansion of Major League Pickleball into Australia marks a significant milestone for the sport. By partnering with the Pacific Pickleball League, MLP aims to standardize and enhance the professional pickleball league experience not only in the United States but on a global scale. The rebranded Major League Pickleball Australia and its upcoming events will provide a thrilling platform for elite players and further popularize the sport across the country. With a record-breaking prize pool and a rapidly growing player base, pickleball in Australia is poised for an exciting future.
For more information on Major League Pickleball, visit the official website and follow MLP on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok , and YouTube.
