PPA Tour: Highlights from the Ultimate Pickleball Competition

The PPA Tour brings together the top professional pickleball players in thrilling competitions. In this article, we cover key events, standout players, and upcoming tournaments that make the PPA Tour a must-follow for fans.

Key Takeaways

• The Sacramento Vintage Open, part of the Carvana Professional Pickleball Tour, offers a nostalgic experience with diverse events for players of all skill levels and is family-friendly.

• Ben Johns and Anna Leigh Waters are standout players in the PPA Tour, representing excellence in men’s and women’s pickleball, respectively, showcasing their skills at upcoming events.

• The PPA Tour emphasizes player safety and preparedness for sudden cardiac arrest, while also delivering thrilling Championship Sunday match experiences that highlight competitive spirit and unpredictability.

Sacramento Throwback: Pickleball Central Sacramento Vintage Open

The Sacramento Vintage Open at Life Time Arden is a standout event in the pickleball calendar, taking place from September 24-28, 2025. As part of the Carvana Professional Pickleball Tour, this tournament brings a nostalgic touch to the modern game. Participants can register for a variety of events, including:

• Men’s Singles

• Women’s Singles

• Mixed Doubles

• Men’s Doubles

• Women’s Doubles This diversity allows players of all skill levels to showcase their talents and engage with the vibrant pickleball community.

A weeklong pass grants access to all days of the tournament at a discounted price, ideal for die-hard fans who want to catch every rally. Additionally, the event is family-friendly, with free entry for children aged 8 and under, making it an excellent outing for pickleball enthusiasts of all ages. Attendees should be aware that there is no on-site parking available, so rideshare services are recommended for convenience.

The Sacramento Vintage Open isn’t just about competitive play; it’s a celebration of the sport’s rich history. Events hosted by Pickleball Central, including exhibitions featuring the iconic PickleballCentral wooden paddle, offer a unique blend of tradition and innovation. The Sacramento throwback theme adds a layer of charm and nostalgia, making this event a must-visit for anyone passionate about professional pickleball.

Meet the Top Professional Pickleball Players

The Carvana Professional Pickleball Tour is graced by some of the top professional pickleball players in the world, each bringing their unique style and strategy to the court. Among them, Ben Johns stands out with a DUPR rating of 7.341, making him the top male player globally. Known for his excellence in singles, doubles, and mixed doubles, Ben’s competitive edge and consistency have set a high bar in the sport of professional pickleball.

On the women’s side, Anna Leigh Waters is a force to be reckoned with. At just 18 years old, she holds a DUPR rating of 6.658 and is renowned for her dynamic play and quick reflexes. Her youth and skill have made her a standout figure, inspiring many young players to take up the sport.

Another notable player is Federico Staksrud, who briefly claimed the top position in singles ahead of Ben Johns after a stellar performance at the PPA Las Vegas in 2024. The tour also features other top professional players like JW Johnson, who is known for his calm gameplay and versatility. His ability to compete effectively in both singles and doubles, often alongside his sister Jorja Johnson, adds an intriguing dynamic to his matches.

Tyson McGuffin, with six career gold medals, is another key player, having secured his last title at the Tournament of Champions in 2023. These pros not only showcase their skills in tournaments but also contribute to the growing popularity and professionalization of pickleball, making it a thrilling sports league for professionals to follow.

Upcoming Tournaments on the Carvana Professional Pickleball Tour

The Carvana Professional Pickleball Tour continues to captivate audiences with its lineup of exciting tournaments. The upcoming events include the Charleston Showdown, Virginia Beach Cup, and Little Rock Challenge, each promising intense competition and memorable moments.

These tournaments provide a platform for professional pickleball players to showcase their talents and vie for top positions in the sports league. Let’s dive into the details of each event.

Charleston Showdown

Set against the picturesque backdrop of Collins Park in North Charleston, SC, the Charleston Showdown is scheduled to take place from October 6 to October 12, 2025. This event is a highlight on the Carvana Professional Pickleball Tour, offering a blend of competitive matches and scenic beauty. Players and fans alike will enjoy the coastal setting, which adds a unique charm to the intense battles on the championship court.

The Charleston Showdown will feature some of the top professional pickleball players, making it a must-watch event. From thrilling rallies to strategic plays, the matches promise to keep audiences on the edge of their seats. Whether you’re a seasoned fan or new to the sport, the Charleston Showdown is an excellent opportunity to witness the high level of skill and determination that defines professional pickleball.

Virginia Beach Cup

The Virginia Beach Cup, scheduled for October 10-12, 2025, will be another exciting event on the Carvana Professional Pickleball Tour. Hosted at a venue on S Birdneck Rd in Virginia Beach, VA, this tournament promises a weekend of thrilling pickleball action. The beachside location adds an extra layer of enjoyment, allowing attendees to combine their love for the sport with a relaxing coastal experience.

Top-tier professional pickleball players will compete on the championship court, delivering high-intensity matches that showcase the sport’s strategic depth and athletic prowess. The Virginia Beach Cup is not just about the games; it’s a celebration of the pickleball community, offering fans a chance to engage with the sport in a vibrant and energetic setting.

Little Rock Challenge

The Little Rock Challenge, taking place from October 20 to 26, 2025, at the Little Rock Athletic Club in Arkansas, promises a week of competitive play. Both professional and amateur matches will be featured, providing a platform for a wide range of talent to shine. The mix of participants ensures a dynamic event, where emerging players can test their skills against seasoned pros.

Top players like Anna Leigh Waters and Riley will be among the highlights of the Little Rock Challenge. Fans can expect intense battles and live-action thrills as these athletes compete for top honors. The event underscores the growing popularity of pickleball, drawing attention to the sport’s competitive spirit and community engagement.

Championship Court Highlights

Championship court matches are where legends are made and unforgettable moments unfold. One of the most memorable highlights includes Ben Johns delivering a powerful shot against Quang Duong, showcasing his competitive edge and skill in the battle. These moments are not just about winning but about the sheer display of athleticism and strategy that captivates the audience.

Jericho Grollman’s match against James Ignatowich was another intense encounter, with Grollman’s open display of emotions adding to the excitement. The PPA Tour emphasizes fan engagement by sharing highlight videos of key moments from matches on their platforms, ensuring that fans can relive the thrilling action and stay connected with the sport.

These highlights are a testament to the high-stakes environment of the championship court, where every point can turn the tide of the match.

Mixed Doubles Action

Mixed doubles matches on the PPA Tour are a showcase of strategic teamwork and thrilling partner relationships. Catherine Parenteau often partners with Anna Leigh Waters in doubles, demonstrating strong teamwork and strategy in their matches. Their ability to coordinate and execute plays with precision makes them a formidable duo on the court.

One of the most exciting mixed doubles matches was the final at the Veolia Bristol Open, where Anna Leigh Waters and Ben Johns achieved a remarkable 51-2 record in finals together, defeating Jorja Johnson and JW Johnson in a five-game match. This match highlighted the intensity and dynamic nature of mixed doubles play, where strategy and skill combine to create unforgettable moments.

The level of competition in mixed doubles is characterized by intense rallies and dynamic play, making it a fan-favorite category on the PPA Tour.

Broadcast Schedule and YouTube Channel

For fans eager to follow the action live, the PPA Tour matches can be streamed on PickleballTV, offering both free and subscription-based access. Additionally, the tour’s official YouTube channel features live streams, match highlights, and telecasts showcasing top players. This accessibility allows fans around the world to stay connected to the sport and never miss a moment of the thrilling matches.

The broadcast schedule for events like the Hyundai Masters and the CIBC PPA Tour Finals is also available on the YouTube channel. This comprehensive coverage allows fans to plan their viewing and enjoy the matches from the comfort of their homes. Whether you’re watching live or catching up on highlights, the PPA Tour’s broadcast options ensure you can stay engaged with the sport and enjoy the top-tier pickleball action.

Player Safety: Sudden Cardiac Arrest Preparedness

Player safety is a paramount concern on the PPA Tour, and preparedness for sudden cardiac arrest is crucial. Sudden cardiac arrest occurs when the heart’s electrical system fails, causing an immediate loss of consciousness and breathing. Safety can be enhanced by ensuring every pickleball facility has an accessible AED, and players should know its location before starting any games.

Additionally, creating a court safety plan that includes assigned roles for emergency situations can significantly enhance preparedness.

The Comeback Story: Kawamotos' Performance Metrics

The Kawamotos have become a beacon of resilience and skill in recent PPA tournaments. Their remarkable comeback from a 10-4 deficit in the final game against Alshon and Black stands out as a testament to their determination and tactical prowess. This performance highlighted their ability to stay composed under pressure and execute a strategic turnaround.

The Kawamotos have consistently demonstrated growth and improvement throughout the PPA Tour. Their performance metrics underscore their development as top players, making their recent matches a focal point of interest for fans and analysts alike.

These comebacks and performances add to the narrative of the PPA Tour, showcasing the competitive spirit and unpredictability that make professional pickleball so exciting.

Championship Sunday Stats

Championship Sunday is a pivotal day in the PPA Tour, where the stakes are at their highest and the competition is fierce. Yana Grechkina and Thomas Wilson’s journey is a perfect example of this intensity. Despite losing their first match, they secured a bronze medal by winning four consecutive matches in the back draw. Such performances highlight the resilience and determination required to succeed at the highest levels.

In another surprising turn, Wright and Kovalova, who have had considerable success in the past, failed to medal at the Lindner Family Tennis Center, experiencing an upset by Grechkina and Wilson. These performances underscore the unpredictability of Championship Sunday, where any player or team can rise to the occasion and influence rankings and legacies.

News and Updates from the PPA Tour

The Carvana Professional Pickleball Tour continues to make headlines with its dynamic schedule and top-tier competitions. Multiple tournaments are scheduled throughout 2025, providing a platform for players to compete for ranking points and prizes. The PPA Finals are set to return to San Clemente in May 2026, streamlining the professional pickleball calendar and ensuring a consistent schedule for fans and players alike.

Recent matches have seen significant developments, including Anna Leigh Waters facing her first loss in a three-game match against Black and Bright. These updates keep fans engaged and excited about the ever-evolving landscape of professional pickleball.

The tour’s commitment to showcasing top talent across various locations underscores its role as a premier sports league for playing pickleball enthusiasts.

Summary

The Carvana Professional Pickleball Tour offers a thrilling blend of top-tier competition, memorable moments, and community engagement. From the Sacramento Vintage Open to the exciting upcoming tournaments, the tour showcases the best in professional pickleball. With top players, thrilling matches, and comprehensive coverage, the PPA Tour continues to captivate audiences and promote the sport’s growth. Stay tuned and keep following the tour for more exciting updates and unforgettable pickleball action.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I watch the PPA Tour matches?

You can watch the PPA Tour matches live on PickleballTV and the official PPA Tour YouTube channel.

Who are some of the top players on the PPA Tour?

The top players on the PPA Tour are Ben Johns, Anna Leigh Waters, Federico Staksrud, JW Johnson, and Tyson McGuffin. These athletes are recognized for their exceptional skills and contributions to the sport.

What are the upcoming tournaments on the Carvana Professional Pickleball Tour?

The upcoming tournaments on the Carvana Professional Pickleball Tour include the Charleston Showdown, Virginia Beach Cup, and Little Rock Challenge. Ensure to mark your calendar for these exciting events.

What safety measures are in place for players on the PPA Tour?

Players on the PPA Tour can expect safety measures such as accessible AEDs at each facility and a developed court safety plan that designates specific roles for emergencies. These protocols are essential for ensuring player safety during competitions.

How can I stay updated with the latest news from the PPA Tour?

To stay updated with the latest news from the PPA Tour, follow their official website, social media channels, and YouTube. These platforms are essential for timely updates and announcements.