Olympics Next? WPF, IPF Unify as Single Pickleball Body, to Follow IOC Mandates
Pickleball is making moves—big bold moves.
With the sport continuing to rise meteorically in Asia and around the world, the time seemed just right to have a single international governing body.
Lo and behold, it has happened!
In a historic move for pickleball, the International Pickleball Federation (IPF) and the World Pickleball Federation (WPF) formalised a landmark merger, with members from both federations voting unanimously at a Special General Meetings (SGMs) to unify into a single international governing body.
The unified governing body will look to champion the “One Country One Vote” cause to ensure proper representation for all nations in matters pickleball related. The new organisation will initially operate under the name World Pickleball Federation (WPF) as a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) entity registered in Illinois, USA.
“This unification is a landmark achievement for pickleball worldwide. By combining our strengths and committing to the highest international standards, we are sending a clear message: pickleball is ready to take its place among the world’s most respected sports.”
– Arvind Praboo, President at IPF
The unified governing body will also combine the assets and resources of both the WPF and IPF into one unified structure. Critically, the new WPF will be registered in Lausanne, Switzerland—the home of the International Olympic Committee (IOC)—to align with the global sports community and meet the highest standards of governance. To this end, it is also fully committed to meeting all IOC recognition requirements, including the following:
- Democratic governance and equal voting rights for all member nations
- Transparent operations and financial oversight
- Gender equity and athlete representation
- Compliance with World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) standards
- Conflict resolution and disciplinary frameworks
- Adherence to the Olympic Charter.
“The pickleball community wants and needs one International Governing Body for the sport of pickleball. With 100 member countries and six years in business the new unified WPF has met the first two critical requirements for IOC membership. We look forward to continuing to grow pickleball at the grass roots worldwide while pursuing our dream of being a full participating sport at an upcoming Olympic Games.
– Seymour Rifkind, President at WPF
With WPF having been established over six years ago, the unified body is well-positioned to immediately begin the IOC recognition process. In contrast to any other organisations claiming to represent the sport internationally, the new WPF distinguishes itself through full democracy, transparency, and international legitimacy.
As part of its founding process, the new WPF is inviting nominations for Directors to form its inaugural Board. These Directors will be elected by member countries at the first Annual General Meeting (AGM) in August 2025, ensuring that governance reflects the sport’s diversity, inclusivity, and global reach.
