Pickleball has raced from community courts to center stage across Asia and beyond. Now, in the wake of a unanimous vote on 14 June 2025, the International Pickleball Federation (IPF) and the World Pickleball Federation (WPF) are combining under the World Pickleball Federation banner. This long-anticipated union delivers something the sport has never had before: a single international voice - an essential step toward Olympic inclusion.
“The need for a singular, unified international governing body to enhance the sport’s growth, governance, credibility, and Olympic aspirations.”
The Three Pillars of Global Pickleball
The IPF-WPF alliance instantly becomes the largest governing force in the game - yet the Global Pickleball Federation (GPF) remains a significant player, promising lively diplomacy ahead.
- International Pickleball Federation (IPF) - Founded in 2010, relaunched in 2023 with the “No Country Left Behind” mission and liaison hubs in the United States, India, and China.
- World Pickleball Federation (WPF) - Established in 2018 to grow the sport in underdeveloped regions and pioneer the first world ranking system.
- Global Pickleball Federation (GPF) - Created in 2023, it claims 67 member nations, strict anti-doping controls, and publicly invites merger talks.
Transition Plan and Team Roster
- Transition Team
- Marlon Schulman - IPF Legal Advisor
- Dwight Crawford - IPF Treasurer
- Mike Jacki - IOC Consultant
- Steve Kuhn - WPF Board Member
- Karen Mitchell - WPF Board Member
- White Paper & Governance Blueprint
- A harmonized framework will recognize just one National Governing Body (NGB) per country, aligning with IOC standards.
- Joint AGM & Board Elections
- Members will elect a fresh board after a 45-day nomination window, with Lausanne, Switzerland - the IOC’s hometown - slated as headquarters.
- IOC Outreach
- A formal request for recognition will follow, targeting Brisbane 2032 or, if momentum surges, 2036.
The GPF Factor
Even as a challenger, the GPF’s leadership is signaling collaboration:
“The path to Pickleball’s inclusion in the Olympics requires a unified effort… the door remains open to join forces in the spirit of unity and the greater good of our game.”
With comparable membership depth and a reputation for transparent governance, the GPF can no longer be ignored. Whether it joins the Lausanne-based federation or chooses a parallel route, its presence raises the bar on accountability.
What This Means for Asia
Asia represents pickleball’s fastest-growing frontier, from Manila’s rooftop courts to Bangalore’s tech-company leagues. A single rulebook, predictable ranking pathway, and Olympic dream will unlock:
- Government grants and sports-ministry backing for national squads
- Corporate sponsorships eager to attach to a globally recognized event
- Youth development programs dovetailing with school curriculums
Expect a surge of regional tournaments feeding into WPF-sanctioned world championships - crucial for athletes eyeing Olympic qualification.
The Road Ahead
- July 2025: Public release of the IPF-WPF governance white paper
- August 2025: Election of the inaugural board and ratification of full bylaws
- Late 2025: Formal IOC application and independent anti-doping certification
- 2026–2028: Continental championships standardized as Olympic qualifiers
Final Rally
The IPF-WPF merger delivers the clarity international sport demands, but unity must go deeper than paperwork. Transparent leadership, robust anti-doping, and genuine cooperation with the GPF will decide whether pickleball rallies all the way to Olympic glory.
For players from Bangkok to Borneo, the message is simple: keep your paddles ready - pickleball’s biggest stage may be closer than ever!
