A group of professional pickleball players has formed the World Pickleball Players Association (WPPA) to collectively represent athletes in negotiations with leagues on key issues such as scheduling, health and safety, player discipline, and compensation transparency. Although not a union—since players are independent contractors—the WPPA aims to provide formal representation and protections as the sport rapidly grows. WPPA President Tina Pisnik, a former top-30 WTA player, emphasized the need for fairness and support to help the sport expand sustainably, with the association welcoming all professional pickleball players internationally.
The WPPA launched with a few dozen members, primarily from the United Pickleball Association (UPA), and includes notable pros on its board. The group seeks collaboration rather than conflict with existing leagues, hoping to meet with UPA leadership soon. The association is advised by Sports Solidarity, a firm experienced in player unionization and collective bargaining, signaling a serious effort to professionalize athlete representation in pickleball as the sport evolves.
