Landmark Merger Unifying Global Pickleball Community and Governance
In a groundbreaking move for the sport of pickleball, two major federations have announced a landmark merger aimed at unifying the global pickleball community and establishing a cohesive approach to governance. The merger, which will see the formation of the World Pickleball Federation (WPF), comes at a significant time as the sport approaches its 60th anniversary in 2025.
Pickleball, a sport invented on Bainbridge Island, Washington, will celebrate six decades since its inception in 2025. The upcoming 10th anniversary of the Bainbridge Cup and the inaugural World Pickleball Games further highlight the rich history and promising future of the sport.
The newly formed WPF will incorporate the core mission of the International Pickleball Federation (IPF) of “No Country Left Behind.” National governing bodies (NGBs) from around the world are invited to join this collaborative effort to advance pickleball on a global scale.
Both federations will have equal input within the new organisation, with member countries encouraged to align and clarify roles to best serve the global pickleball community. A Transition Board, led by an experienced advisor from the International Olympic Committee (IOC), will oversee the merger process, culminating in a joint Annual General Meeting where members will vote on finalizing the merger and appointing a new Board of Directors.
The transparent and inclusive approach of the merger aims to keep the pickleball community at the forefront of this pivotal moment in the sport’s history. Through this merger, the unified federation seeks to streamline global governance, strengthen international relationships, and elevate pickleball’s profile worldwide.
Players, fans, and administrators can look forward to a more cohesive and dynamic future for the sport as a result of this merger. The WPF also extends an invitation to the Global Pickleball Federation (GPF) and other governing bodies to consider further consolidation, promoting unity across the sport.
Leaders of the IPF and WPF, Arvind Praboo and Seymour Rifkind, expressed their shared commitment to the sport’s growth and to bringing the global pickleball community together. They emphasized that the merger is about uniting the community and ensuring that pickleball’s future is bright, inclusive, and accessible to everyone around the world.
