In this episode of the World Pickleball Podcast, host Chris Beaumont is joined by co-host Gordon Watson to break down a packed week of professional and international pickleball news.

The discussion opens with analysis of the first two days of the World Pickleball League (WPBL), including early performances, standout moments, and what the opening matches reveal about the direction of the league. From there, Chris and Gordon turn to growing rumours linking Sofia Sewing to a potential move to the PPA, examining what such a shift could mean for both player and tour.

The episode also covers PPA Indoors in Minnesota, with insights into the event, conditions, and its place on the professional calendar. Attention then shifts to Paddle Battle, the new Pickleball Kingdom reality TV show, where winners earn a coveted spot on the APP Tour, blending entertainment with competitive opportunity.

To close, the hosts explore the launch of TOPSERIES, a new EMEA pickleball tour, and what it signals for the sport’s rapid growth across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.

This episode is essential listening for players, fans, and industry insiders tracking the evolving landscape of global pickleball.

Topics covered include:

• World Pickleball League opening days
• Sofia Sewing and PPA transfer rumours
• PPA Indoors Minnesota
• Paddle Battle reality TV show and APP Tour pathway
• TOPSERIES and the expansion of pickleball in EMEA

Subscribe to the World Pickleball Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms for weekly analysis and insight into the biggest stories in pickleball worldwide.

In this episode of the World Pickleball Podcast, host Chris Beaumont and co-host Gordon Watson dive deep into one of the most anticipated moments in professional pickleball: Season Two of the World Pickleball League (WPBL).

Chris and Gordon preview what’s ahead for WPBL Season 2, set for January 24 to February 8, 2026, at Jio World Garden in Mumbai, India. They discuss the league’s expansion and global significance as teams prepare to battle it out in one of the sport’s most ambitious franchise competitions. With players from around the world drafted into city-based teams and a festival-style fan experience planned, this season is shaping up to be a milestone for pickleball’s growth and global profile. (wpbl.org)

The hosts break down key storylines, including the diverse mix of international talent entering the draft, how the WPBL blends sport with entertainment, and what this means for players, fans, and markets beyond India. Whether you’re tracking franchise expansion, elite pickleball competition, or the sport’s rising global footprint, this episode gives you a front-row seat to Season 2’s build-up. (wpbl.org)

Topics covered in this episode include:

• Preview of World Pickleball League Season Two in Mumbai
• New franchise teams and international player draft insights
• WPBL’s focus on fan engagement and sportainment
• How WPBL fits into the global pickleball landscape

Subscribe to the World Pickleball Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms for weekly news and insights about the sport’s biggest developments.

In this episode of the World Pickleball Podcast, host Chris Beaumont is joined by co-host Gordon Watson for a wide-ranging discussion on the biggest stories shaping pickleball right now.

The episode opens with an update on what the team has been working on behind the scenes, including the continued growth and global reach of World Pickleball Magazine. From there, the conversation moves into one of the busiest periods in recent memory for paddle sponsorships, breaking down major player signings such as Anna Leigh Waters joining Franklin, Federico Staksrud Tardio’s move to Falcolos, and wider shifts involving Friday and Engage.

Chris and Gordon also tackle several key developments across the professional and international game. Topics include Australia’s decision to drop Masters events, Harrison Brown’s surprise PPA win over Bhatia, and DUPR’s move toward AI integration with PB Vision. The episode closes with discussion around the upcoming World Pickleball Championships tournament in China and what it signals for the sport’s global expansion.

This episode is essential listening for players, fans, coaches, and industry insiders who want a clear view of where pickleball is heading, both on and off the court.

Topics covered include:

Growth of World Pickleball Magazine

Major pickleball paddle sponsorship signings

Changes to the Australian pickleball calendar

PPA results and standout performances

DUPR and AI technology in pickleball

World Pickleball Championships in China

Subscribe to the World Pickleball Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms for weekly analysis, news, and conversation from across the global pickleball landscape.