Skip to content
PICKLEBALL SPOTS LOGO
  • PADDLESExpand
    • Best Pickleball Paddles
    • Best For Beginners
    • Best for Intermediate Players
    • Best for Advanced Players
    • Best For Spin
    • Bests For Control
    • Best for Power
    • Best Lightweight
  • ShoesExpand
    • Best Pickleball Shoes
    • Best Pickleball Shoes Under $100
    • Best Pickleball Shoes For Narrow Feet
    • Best Pickleball Shoes For Wide Feet
    • Best Running Shoes For Pickleball
  • Buyer Guides
  • Tips & Tricks
  • FAQ
PICKLEBALL SPOTS LOGO
PickleBallSpots

As an independent review site, we may earn a commission when you click on our links.

What Is Major League Pickleball?

Posted onMay 15, 2023May 15, 2023

Pickleball is a sport that has been gaining popularity over the past few years, and the rise of Major League Pickleball (MLP) has contributed significantly to its growth. MLP is the highest tier of competitive pickleball, and it features some of the best players in the world. In this article, we will explore what Major League Pickleball is, how it works, and why it’s becoming so popular.

Contents
  1. The Rise of Major League Pickleball
    • How Does Major League Pickleball Work?
    • MLP Season and Tournaments
    • MLP Players
    • MLP Teams
  2. Why Is Major League Pickleball Becoming So Popular?
    • Accessibility
    • Fun and Social Aspect
    • Rise of Professionalism
    • Celebrity Involvement
    • Prize Money
    • Growing Popularity of Pickleball
  3. How to Get Involved in Major League Pickleball?
    • Developing Your Skills
    • Trying Out for an MLP Team
    • Working Your Way Up
  4. Conclusion
  5. Reference Links

The Rise of Major League Pickleball

The popularity of pickleball has been on the rise in recent years, and Major League Pickleball is at the forefront of this growth. MLP was formed in 2022 when the Pickleball Pro Association (PPA) and the MLP merged. The league features some of the best players in the world, and it offers a high level of competition for both players and fans.

Also Read  Why Do Tennis Players Hate Pickleball?

How Does Major League Pickleball Work?

MLP follows a unique format that sets it apart from other pickleball leagues. The league features teams of two women and two men who compete in a round-robin tournament format. Each match consists of two sets, and the team that wins the most sets wins the match. If each team wins one set, a tiebreaker is played to determine the winner.

MLP Season and Tournaments

The MLP season runs from November to April, and it consists of several tournaments across the United States. The season culminates in the MLP championship, where the best teams compete for the title of MLP champions. The winning team of each tournament earns a cash prize, with the winning team of the championship earning a significant payout of $100,000.

MLP Players

MLP features some of the best pickleball players in the world, including Tyson McGuffin, Simone Jardim, and Ben Johns. These players have achieved success in both singles and doubles play and are known for their impressive skills and athleticism on the court.

Also Read  What Are Pickleball Paddles Called? [Explained]

MLP Teams

The MLP currently features ten teams, each representing a different city in the United States. These teams include the Atlanta Bashers, Chicago Mustangs, Miami Waves, and New York Empire, among others. Each team has a roster of four players, two men, and two women.

Why Is Major League Pickleball Becoming So Popular?

The rise of Major League Pickleball can be attributed to several factors. Let’s take a closer look at some of the reasons why MLP is becoming so popular.

Accessibility

One of the reasons why pickleball, in general, is becoming so popular is its accessibility. Unlike other sports that require extensive training and equipment, pickleball can be played by anyone, regardless of age or skill level. The sport is easy to learn, and it can be played on almost any surface, making it accessible to people from all walks of life.

Fun and Social Aspect

Pickleball is a fun and social sport that can be enjoyed by both players and spectators. MLP tournaments offer a unique atmosphere that combines competition with entertainment, making it an enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

Also Read  From Basements to Backyards: How Pickleball is Sweeping the Nation?

Rise of Professionalism

The rise of MLP has brought a new level of professionalism to the sport of pickleball. The league features some of the best players in the world, and it offers a high level of competition for both players and fans.

Celebrity Involvement

Another factor contributing to the popularity of MLP is celebrity involvement. In 2022, LeBron James expressed interest in owning a Major League Pickleball team, which garnered media attention and helped to raise awareness of the sport.

Prize Money

MLP offers significant prize money to the winning teams, with the championship team receiving a payout of $100,000. This has attracted top players to the league and has helped to raise the profile of pickleball as a serious sport.

Growing Popularity of Pickleball

Pickleball has been gaining popularity in recent years, and it has been named the country’s fastest-growing sport two years in a row by the Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA). With more people becoming interested in pickleball, it’s no surprise that Major League Pickleball is also growing in popularity.

Also Read  Do Pickleball Paddles Have a Sweet Spot?

How to Get Involved in Major League Pickleball?

If you’re interested in playing pickleball at the highest level, then Major League Pickleball might be for you. To get involved, you’ll need to start by developing your skills and competing in local tournaments. Once you have gained enough experience, you can try out for an MLP team or work your way up through the ranks.

Developing Your Skills

To become a professional pickleball player, you’ll need to develop your skills through practice and competition. You can start by taking lessons from a qualified coach, practicing regularly, and competing in local tournaments to gain experience.

Trying Out for an MLP Team

To try out for an MLP team, you’ll need to showcase your skills and impress the team’s coaches and management. The best way to do this is by competing in tournaments and performing well against top-level players. You can also reach out to MLP teams directly and express your interest in trying out.

Also Read  Is Pickleball Bad for Your Hips

Working Your Way Up

If you’re not quite ready to try out for an MLP team, you can work your way up through the ranks by competing in lower-level leagues and tournaments. As you gain more experience and improve your skills, you’ll be better equipped to compete at the highest level of pickleball.

Conclusion

Major League Pickleball is a fast-growing sport that is gaining popularity around the world. With its unique format, high level of competition, and significant prize money, it’s no wonder that more people are becoming interested in this exciting sport. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just getting started, there’s never been a better time to get involved in Major League Pickleball.

Reference Links

  • Pickleheads: Major League Pickleball
  • The New York Times: Here Comes Major League Pickleball
  • Inside Hook: Major League Pickleball Is the Sport You Need to Be Watching Right Now
  • Major League Pickleball: About Major League Pickleball
  • Newsweek: What Is Major League Pickleball? LeBron James’ New Venture
Also Read  Where to Play Pickleball in My Area

  • Jobu Officially Licensed (Major League) Movie Replica 10" Figure
    Jobu Officially Licensed (Major League) Movie Replica 10" Figure
  • Franklin Sports Outdoor - X-40 Pickleball Balls - USA (USAPA)
    Franklin Sports Outdoor - X-40 Pickleball Balls - USA (USAPA) Approved - 12 Pack Outside - Optic Yellow - US Open Ball
  • SLK by Selkirk Pickleball Paddles | Featuring a Multilayer Fiberglass
    SLK by Selkirk Pickleball Paddles | Featuring a Multilayer Fiberglass and Graphite Pickleball Paddle Face | SX3 Honeycomb Core | Pickleball Rackets Designed in The USA for Traction and Stability
  • Uteeqe Pickleball Paddles Set of 2 - Graphite Surface with
    Uteeqe Pickleball Paddles Set of 2 - Graphite Surface with High Grit & Spin, USAPA Approved Pickleball Set Pickle Ball Raquette Lightweight Polymer Honeycomb Non-Slip Grip w/ 4 Outdoor Balls & Bag
  • Pickleball Paddles Set of 4 incl 4 Fiberglass Pickleball Rackets,
    Pickleball Paddles Set of 4 incl 4 Fiberglass Pickleball Rackets, 4 Balls, 1 Paddle Bag, 4 Grip Tapes, JoncAye Pickleball Set for Outdoor and Indoor, Pickle-Ball-Paddle-Set of 4 with Accessories
  • niupipo Pickleball Paddles, Lightweight Pickleball Rackets w/Fiberglass Surface, Fiberglass Surface,
    niupipo Pickleball Paddles, Lightweight Pickleball Rackets w/Fiberglass Surface, Fiberglass Surface, Pickleball Set of 4 Balls and 1 Pickleball Bag,Light Weight Pickleball Rackets
  • 10 Pickleball Rules Denoted In the Official USAPA Rulebook
  • Do Pickleball Paddles Wear Out? (5 Tips To Increase Life)
  • How does a pickleball player progress from intermediate to advanced?
  • Is Pickleball Good for Osteoporosis?
  • Why Is Pickleball a Lifetime Activity?
  • Are Lines Good in Pickleball?
  • Is Pickleball the Same as Paddle Tennis?
  • Why Do Players Stack in Pickleball?
  • Is Pickleball Good for Osteoarthritis?
  • How Many Pickleball Leagues Are There?
Also Read  Does the YMCA Have Pickleball
Avatar Of Kevin K. Shaw
Kevin K. Shaw

Kevin is a pickleball coach and former professional player. He’s been playing pickleball for over 10 years and has won multiple championships. He’s also the founder of PickleballSpots.com

Facebook Twitter

Why Trust PickleballSpots?

Our team of experts has years of experience playing Pickleball and testing out the latest products. We know what to look for in a good paddle or pair of shoes, and we’re always on the lookout for the latest and greatest gear. Read more about us!

  • Pickleball T-Shirt: Major Leagues
    Pickleball T-Shirt: Major Leagues
  • Pickleball Major Leagues - Simple Black Solid T-Shirt
    Pickleball Major Leagues - Simple Black Solid T-Shirt
  • Pickleball T-Shirt: Major Leagues - Light
    Pickleball T-Shirt: Major Leagues - Light
  • Funko Pop! Movies: Major League - Ricky Vaughn (Styles May
    Funko Pop! Movies: Major League - Ricky Vaughn (Styles May Vary)
  • Inside Major League Pickleball
    Inside Major League Pickleball
  • The Best Pickleball Players Are Born In July Journal: Pickleball
    The Best Pickleball Players Are Born In July Journal: Pickleball Lined Composition Notebook Major League Pickleball | Blank 6x9 Lined Notebook (120 Pages)

PICKLEBALL SPOTS LOGO

PickleballSpots.com is created by a group of pickleball enthusiasts who wanted to create a one-stop shop for all things pickleball. We aim to provide pickleball players with all the resources they need to improve their game, including pickleball tips, FAQs, buying guides, and product reviews.

  • Email: info@pickleballspots.com
  • Address: 1214 Oak St, Syracuse, NY, 13203, United StatesHours:
  • Customer Service: (212) 555-6789

© 2023 PickleBallSpots

  • Blog
  • About Us
  • Why Trust Us?
  • How We Test?
  • Affiliate Disclosure
  • Privacy Policy
  • Contact us
  • Sitemap
Scroll to top
  • PADDLES
    • Best Pickleball Paddles
    • Best For Beginners
    • Best for Intermediate Players
    • Best for Advanced Players
    • Best For Spin
    • Bests For Control
    • Best for Power
    • Best Lightweight
  • Shoes
    • Best Pickleball Shoes
    • Best Pickleball Shoes Under $100
    • Best Pickleball Shoes For Narrow Feet
    • Best Pickleball Shoes For Wide Feet
    • Best Running Shoes For Pickleball
  • Buyer Guides
  • Tips & Tricks
  • FAQ
Search