What’s up, pickleball fanatics? Ace here, and wow—if you blinked over the past week, you missed some absolutely incredible moments in our sport. Between historic championship performances and mind-blowing paddle technology hitting the market, there’s so much to unpack that I barely know where to start. Pour yourself that morning coffee (or afternoon IPA if that’s your vibe), and let’s dive into what’s been happening on and off the courts.
Culture and News
Ace’s Pickleball Pulse: Your Weekly Guide to Everything Happening on the Courts
This week in Ace’s Pickleball Pulse: A recap of the inaugural MLP Cup in Texas, the rise of “foam-core” paddle technology from brands like Honolulu and CRBN, and a look at how collegiate and pro pickleball are merging to build the sport’s future depth.
Hey there, pickleball fanatics and curious newcomers alike! I’m Alex Rivera—though most people just call me “Ace” on the courts—and I’m absolutely stoked to launch this weekly column right here on Pickleball Rookie. If you’re looking for someone to break down the latest gear, dissect professional tournament results, and generally geek out about all things pickleball with you, well, you’ve found your guy.
What’s Next for the $3 Billion Pickleball Boom?
The $3 billion pickleball market is poised for massive corporate entry in 2025, with major brands like Nike and Under Armour likely to acquire paddle tech or launch specific footwear. For investors, the real opportunity lies in “Pickleball-tainment” venues and premium apparel, as the sport transitions from a hobby to a permanent athletic category.
Pickleball isn’t just a weekend hobby anymore—it’s becoming a business goldmine that’s caught the attention of major corporations worldwide. After diving deep into market research and industry trends, I’ve uncovered some fascinating predictions about which major brands will soon enter this explosive market and why the opportunity is too big to ignore.
Rediscovering Tennis After Years Of Pickleball
For four decades, tennis was my jam. I’d pick up a racquet a handful of times each year, and enjoy the muscle memory established as a kid.
It wasn’t a serious commitment, but it was a constant in my life—until it wasn’t.
Two years ago, I discovered pickleball.
Like many others, I was seduced by the game’s rapid-fire game-play, social atmosphere, total inclusion, and ease on my body when compared to tennis.
Before I knew it, tennis faded into the background, and pickleball became The Choice.
For over two years, I didn’t touch a tennis racquet. Not once.
I reveled in the quick reflexes and strategic positioning that pickleball demanded. And I figured I was still maintaining my “racquet sports skills,” albeit on a smaller scale.
Boy, was I wrong.
Is Pickleball Good for Weight Loss?
Pickleball has rapidly grown in popularity over the past few years, and for good reason. Not only is it an incredibly fun and social sport, but it also offers many benefits for those looking to improve their fitness and lose weight. As someone who has been playing pickleball for the past two years, I’ve witnessed firsthand the transformative effects it can have on people’s bodies and overall health.
When Pickleball Frustration Turns Into a Paddle Smash
I threw my pickleball paddle.
Like an impetuous little cry baby, I tossed it into an empty bench.
It soared like a Frisbee, garnering several audible gasps from surrounding players.
I tell you this not because I am proud but because days later, I’m still embarrassed.
The catalyst? I went one and six in games against lateral competition and I couldn’t point to a single reason why. I reverted back to that 14-year-old boy who once smashed a tennis racket against the tree. But that was a hormonal rage brought on by girl trouble.
Decades later, and a much more mellow dude, there is no excuse for my pickleball frustration to be left on the court.
Nice Guys Finish Last: My Pickleball Etiquette Epiphany
Last night, it was business as usual at my “Advanced Intermediate to Advanced” pickleball league–until it wasn’t.
I was winning a doubles match 8-1.
I hit a wicked hard slice shot from just in front of the baseline.
The ball took a crazy turn and started to gravitate towards my opponent’s head. He just got his paddle up in time and hit a errant ball that sailed into the benches.
He wasn’t happy.
“Hey, I have to go to work tomorrow.”
I apologized.
“Never my intention to hurt anyone.”
We continued play, and I resorted to much softer tactics.
You can probably guess what happens next.
I lost the match 11-9.
On the drive home I was pissed at myself.
After almost two years of playing the sport, I still don’t know how to keep my pedal to the metal; I’m billing myself The Empathetic Pickleballer.
But that doesn’t show up in the box score.
What Is Australian Doubles Pickleball?
Australian Doubles (often called “Cutthroat”) is a 3-player pickleball format where one person plays solo against a team of two. The solo player serves and is the only one who can score points. Players rotate clockwise after every rally, ensuring everyone plays both solo and team positions.
Australian Doubles is a fast-paced pickleball variation played with three people on a standard-sized court. Also known as “Cutthroat” (don’t worry, it’s not as violent as it sounds), this game format solves the eternal problem of having an odd number of players show up at the court. Here’s how it works: the court is divided lengthwise down the middle, with one player serving solo from one side while a team of two players covers the opposite half. Players rotate positions after each point, which means you’re constantly switching between being the lone wolf and being part of a team. The beauty of Australian Doubles? It keeps everyone engaged and active—no one sits out waiting for their turn. Plus, it tests your skills in ways that regular doubles simply can’t.
2024 Pickleball Rule Changes Explained
USA Pickleball has released its 2024 official rulebook, and there are several notable changes we want our fellow players to be aware of. Do we dig all of the rule changes? Read on to find out!
Why Pickleball is the Ultimate “Third Place” for Mental Health & Community
A “Third Place” is a social environment separate from home (“First Place”) and work (“Second Place”) where people gather to connect. Sociologists argue that Pickleball has become the most effective modern Third Place because of its “Open Play” culture, which forces interaction between strangers, and its ability to act as a “Great Leveler”—where CEOs and retirees compete as equals. Recent studies show regular players are 60% less likely to report depression than non-players.
Pickleball players tend to fall hard for the sport.
The path to addiction is so quick that friends and families are often caught off guard.
There’s a reason many of us often hear, “Pickleball, again?!”
And it’s not said in the nicest of tones.
Well, I’m not sure about you, but it occurred to me recently that pickleball is my “third place.”