The IPF-WPF Merger: Paving the Way for Pickleball’s Olympic Dreams

In a groundbreaking move that’s set to reshape the landscape of international pickleball, the International Pickleball Federation (IPF) and the World Pickleball Federation (WPF) have announced their merger. This historic consolidation aims to create a unified global governing body for the sport, operating under the WPF name. The merger, which received unanimous approval from both organizations on June 14, 2025, marks a significant milestone in pickleball’s journey towards potential Olympic recognition.

Understanding the Merger: A New Era for Global Pickleball

The decision to merge the IPF and WPF comes at a crucial time for pickleball. As the sport continues to grow rapidly worldwide, the need for a cohesive international governance structure has become increasingly apparent. This merger represents a strategic move to streamline the sport’s global administration and enhance its prospects for Olympic inclusion.

The newly formed entity will adopt the WPF name but incorporate key elements from both original organizations. This includes embracing the IPF’s inclusive motto, “No Country Left Behind,” signaling a commitment to global development of the sport. The proposed headquarters in Lausanne, Switzerland – home to the International Olympic Committee (IOC) – further underscores the merged federation’s Olympic aspirations.

The Road to Unification: A Brief History of the Federations

International Pickleball Federation (IPF)

The IPF’s journey began in 2010 when it was initially established as the International Federation of Pickleball (IFP). Founded by representatives from the USA, Canada, Spain, and India, the organization aimed to promote pickleball on a global scale. However, financial and governance challenges led to a period of inactivity.

In April 2023, the federation was reborn as the International Pickleball Federation (IPF), with a renewed focus on worldwide growth. Under the leadership of President Arvind Prabhoo and a team of dedicated professionals, the IPF rapidly expanded its reach, boasting 77 national associations at the time of the merger announcement.

World Pickleball Federation (WPF)

The WPF, founded in 2018 by Seymour Rifkind, emerged from the International Pickleball Teaching Professional Association (IPTPA). Its mission centered on expanding pickleball globally, with a particular emphasis on developing regions. The WPF also focused on professionalizing the sport through the implementation of world rankings and tournament series.

The Merger Process: A Roadmap to Unity

The unification of the IPF and WPF is being overseen by a dedicated Transition Team, led by Michael Jacki, an independent consultant with extensive IOC experience. This team, composed of representatives from both federations, is tasked with ensuring a smooth and equitable merger process.

Key milestones in the merger process include:

1. Development of a comprehensive whitepaper guiding the harmonization of national federation memberships into single National Governing Bodies (NGBs), in line with IOC standards.
2. Special General Meetings (SGMs) held on June 14, 2025, where both the IPF and WPF unanimously approved the merger proposal.
3. A forthcoming Joint Annual General Meeting (AGM) where members of the newly merged organization will elect a new Board of Directors.

Olympic Aspirations: The Ultimate Goal

The merger between the IPF and WPF significantly enhances pickleball’s Olympic bid. By creating a single global federation, the sport addresses a crucial IOC requirement for unified governance. The decision to establish headquarters in Lausanne and align bylaws with IOC standards further strengthens the case for Olympic inclusion.

According to sources within the WPF, there’s even a slim possibility of pickleball featuring in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, though the 2032 or 2036 Games remain more realistic targets. This merger represents a vital step towards achieving the Olympic dream, as outlined in the official merger resolution.

The Global Pickleball Federation: A Third Player in the Field

While the IPF-WPF merger marks a significant consolidation, it’s important to note the existence of a third international body: the Global Pickleball Federation (GPF). Launched in November 2023 following the withdrawal of several nations from the IPF, the GPF has positioned itself as a rapidly growing federation with a focus on democratic governance and transparent operations.

The GPF boasts 67 member countries and is organized into continental bodies, including the Confederation of African Pickleball, Pickleball Federation of the Americas, Asian Pickleball Association, and Oceania Pickleball Association. Its mandate emphasizes strict adherence to anti-doping regulations and a unified approach to Olympic pursuit.

In light of the IPF-WPF merger, the GPF has extended an invitation for further unification, stating: “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.” This call for collaboration underscores the complex landscape of international pickleball governance and the ongoing efforts to achieve true global unity in the sport.

What Lies Ahead: The Path Forward

With the successful vote for unification on June 14, 2025, the merged IPF-WPF entity now faces several crucial steps:

1. Formation of a New Board: Following a 45-day nomination period, members will vote on a new Board of Directors in August, finalizing bylaws and completing the organizational structure.
2. Membership Alignment: All countries previously under IPF or WPF jurisdiction will transition to a single NGB status, a critical requirement for Olympic compliance.
3. IOC Engagement: With its new structure and unified membership in place, the federation will formally approach the IOC for recognition and inclusion, targeting the 2032 Brisbane Olympics or the 2036 Games.
4. GPF Negotiations: The merged entity will need to address the GPF’s position, either through reconciliation or by competing as a rival body for international recognition.

The Bigger Picture: Pickleball’s Global Future

The IPF-WPF merger represents more than just an administrative change; it’s a pivotal moment in pickleball’s evolution as a global sport. By creating a unified governance structure aligned with IOC standards, the sport takes a significant step towards Olympic recognition.

However, challenges remain. The existence of the GPF as a separate entity highlights the ongoing need for dialogue and potential further consolidation within the international pickleball community. The sport’s ability to present a truly unified front will be crucial in its Olympic bid and overall global development.

As pickleball continues its rapid growth worldwide, the impact of this merger will be felt at all levels of the sport. From grassroots development to professional competitions, the unified WPF will play a crucial role in shaping pickleball’s future. The coming months and years will be critical as the new organization works to harmonize rules, standardize competitions, and foster the sport’s growth in new markets.

Conclusion: A New Chapter for Pickleball

The merger of the IPF and WPF marks the beginning of a new era for international pickleball. With a unified governing body, aligned with Olympic standards and committed to global growth, the sport is better positioned than ever to achieve its Olympic aspirations.

As stated in the merger resolution, the unified body aims to “enhance the sport’s growth, governance, credibility, and Olympic aspirations.” The coming years will reveal whether this bold move will indeed propel pickleball onto the world’s biggest sporting stage.

For players, fans, and stakeholders around the world, this merger promises a more cohesive and professionally managed global pickleball community. As the sport continues to evolve and grow, the unified WPF will play a crucial role in guiding its development, fostering international competition, and potentially realizing the dream of seeing pickleball in the Olympic Games.