Pro Pickleball Players Outearn WNBA, NWSL

The Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) reports that average earnings for female players reached $260,000 in 2024, surpassing the highest salaries in the WNBA and more than doubling those in the NWSL. This growth follows the merger of Major League Pickleball and the Carvana PPA Tour, creating the United Pickleball Association (UPA) which has attracted $75 million in investment. The sport's popularity surged, with over 320,000 fans attending events, a 40% increase from the previous year, and more than 350 hours of televised coverage across major networks. Pro pickleball players collectively earned more than $30 million, and the sport has seen a significant increase in participation and audience engagement on social media. Notably, players benefit from equal pay and opportunities, with a projected revenue of over $100 million for the UPA in the coming years. The rise in pickleball's profile highlights a breakthrough for women's sports, as it stands out for its salary structure and equal competition between genders.