Bainbridge cup

The International Pickleball Federation: The International Pickleball Federation (IPF) and World Pickleball Federation (WPF), two of the longest-standing governing bodies for the sport of pickleball, are set to merge, creating a single, unified organization dedicated to the growth and development of the sport worldwide. The landmark merger, announced on Saturday, aims to unify the sport’s global community and establish a cohesive, forward-looking approach to governance.

"The timing of this historic decision holds special significance as the sport approaches its 60th anniversary in 2025, marking six decades since pickleball’s invention on Bainbridge Island, Washington. In addition, next year will see the 10th anniversary of the Bainbridge Cup, and the inaugural World Pickleball Games, events that highlight pickleball’s rich history and exciting future," the two organisations informed in a release on Saturday.

The newly unified organisation will initiate with the World Pickleball Federation (WPF) name, incorporating the IPF’s core mission of “No Country Left Behind.” National governing bodies (NGBs) worldwide are invited to join this collaborative effort to advance the sport on a global scale. Both federations will share equal input within the new organisation, with member countries encouraged to align and clarify roles to best serve the global pickleball community, the joint statement said.