News - A historic $225 million investment propels pickleball into the major leagues.

Pickleball, once a humble pastime, is now soaring to new heights with an infusion of $225 million. This significant financial backing, announced Friday, has led to the creation of Pickleball Inc., set to oversee and manage the rapidly growing sport. The consolidation merges Major League Pickleball and the Carvana PPA Tour, two leading bodies in the sport, into one dynamic entity. This alliance signals the sport's ascension from its nascent stages to becoming a staple in the pantheon of American sports. "Today marks a pivotal moment for pickleball," said MLP Commissioner, Samin Odhwani, reflecting on the investment led by Apollo Sports Capital, which further solidifies the sport's placement as a rising force in the athletic community. Apollo Sports Capital’s CEO, Al Tylis, expressed enthusiasm about the structured investment, acknowledging pickleball's widespread appeal transcending age barriers. According to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association, participation in the sport has surged, with more than 24 million people engaging with it in 2025 — a 22% increase from the prior year, underscoring its colossal growth trajectory. Originally invented in Washington state in 1965, pickleball's popularity has skyrocketed by an astounding 171% over the past three years, establishing it as the fastest-growing sport in America. The sport's appeal extends beyond casual players, attracting a roster of celebrity investors including NFL legend Tom Brady and Tennis star Kim Clijsters, alongside NBA icons LeBron James, Kevin Love, and Draymond Green, all vying for a slice of its burgeoning market. Under the new umbrella of Pickleball Inc., more than 150 professional players will compete, with top athletes potentially earning over $1 million annually through a mix of endorsements, prize pools, and appearance fees. Despite the exorbitant earnings for top competitors, many players participate on a part-time basis, balancing employment with their sporting ambitions. Alongside league and tour management, Pickleball Inc. aims to innovate through technology integration, retail expansion, and infrastructural development, reinforcing its footing as a formidable sport entity.