Padel + Pickleball

Welcome to RADL Wire: As the tennis world shifts from clay to grass, we’re spotlighting the latest equipment drops designed to keep you quick on your feet and sharp at the net. In industry news, the convergence of paddle sports is gaining momentum—both the International Association of Padel Federations (IAPF) and the World Pickleball Convention are expanding their programming to include Padel, signaling a shared future for these rapidly growing sports.

We wrap up with a look at two major MEET UPs on the horizon: RacquetX unveils a bold new venue for 2026, and the National Pickleball Convention gears up for a high-energy return to Palm Beach this June. Let’s dive in.

In today’s edition:

• New Equipment Drops

• Industry News - Two paddle sports merging interests

• MEET UPs - Conventions on the move

Franklin Sports C45° Paddle Series Breaks Pickleball Barrier with Most Versatile Paddle Series in the Game

Franklin Sports, a leading brand in the sporting goods industry, has announced the most inventive series of paddles to hit the pickleball world: the Franklin C45°. Designed for athletes seeking to dominate on the court or break-free from the players’ baseline, the Franklin C45° Series delivers strong results with its versatility across shapes and thicknesses creating a custom feel that allows players to enjoy the game in their own unique way. The 45° angled outer layer of premium carbon fiber creates enhanced grit and surface texture across all models, which allows for greater spin with improved control and increasing dwell time on placement shots and resets. C45° paddles deliver unparalleled feedback, responsiveness, and explosive “pop” that outperforms any other paddle on the market. LEARN MORE

Introducing Wimbledon x Babolat

Tennis focus turns from clay to grass as Babolat highlights its Wimbledon x Babolat. The Babolat x Wimbledon collection returns with exclusive models in the colors of the London Grand Slam. Whether you're a beginner or a passionate competitor. Get your grass game in style with related racquets, shoes, bags and even a stylized logo damper.

Selkirk to launch new ERA of paddles

Here's a sneak peek and a chance to win. Launching June 24, Selkirk is set to debut its new ERA paddles. Readers have an opportunity to be among the first to experience the new SLK ERA Power paddle.

INDUSTRY NEWS

International Association of Pickleball Facilities Expands to Include Padel

The International Association of Pickleball Facilities (IAPF), the leading global trade association for pickleball facilities, suppliers, investors and other stakeholders, announced a bold expansion into padel—one of the fastest-growing sports worldwide. As part of this strategic move, IAPF is rebranding as the International Association of Pickleball and Padel Facilities (IAPPF) and naming Conquer Padel as the Founding Partner and Sponsor for padel.

THRIVE Enters the Court: Le-Vel Announces Official Partnership with USA Pickleball

Le-Vel, the company behind the premium health and wellness system THRIVE, is proud to announce a dynamic new partnership with USA Pickleball, the official governing body of America’s fastest-growing sport. This collaboration marks a significant step forward for Le-Vel in its mission to empower everyday health, performance, and community, reaching tens of thousands of new consumers nationwide.

The partnership officially kicked off at the Golden Ticket Tournament in Greensboro, NC, held from May 28 to June 1, where 250 elite gift bags were distributed to top athletes, featuring Le-Vel’s flagship THRIVE 3-Step Experience, along with fan favorites THRIVE Activate for energy and THRIVE Thirst for electrolyte-driven hydration.

Baha Mar Announces Expanded 2025 Baha Mar Cup

Baha Mar announced the highly anticipated sixth-annual Baha Mar Cup, taking place Thursday, December 11 through Sunday, December 14. Expanding to four thrilling days, this year’s event will spotlight the inaugural Celebrity Pro-Am Tournament – an electrifying new feature pairing elite tennis professionals with internationally recognized celebrities in a dynamic and intimate format, providing guests with an unparalleled opportunity to witness and engage with sports legends and stars alike. The tournament is hosted by tennis icon John McEnroe and Bahamian tennis legend Mark Knowles.

The Pickle Pad Accelerates Nationwide Expansion with Fall Debuts in Three New Cities

The Pickle Pad continues to build on its breakout year with strategic growth, new market entries, and an unwavering commitment to creating fun, community-centered experiences. Following a strong Q1 performance that included 12 signed agreements and nine locations in development, the brand is preparing for a major milestone in Q3: opening three new venues in high-demand markets—Myrtle Beach, SC; St. George, UT; and Newport News, VA.

Pickleball Kingdom Cincinnati Mason Announces Grand Opening Celebration on June 21, 2025

Pickleball Kingdom is thrilled to announce the official Grand Opening of its brand-new, state-of-the-art indoor pickleball facility on Saturday, June 21, 2025. The facility, located at 12130 Royal Point Drive in Cincinnati, OH

MEET UPS

• Get Ready for the 2025 National Pickleball Convention - Mark your calendars: June 27–29. The National Pickleball Convention is making its much-anticipated return to Palm Beach in June 2025, celebrating the sport’s rapid rise and vibrant community. This action-packed event will include headlining speakers, three competitive tournaments, more than 150 exhibitors, and the exciting introduction of Padel—one of the fastest-growing racquet sports. Sponsored by major brands like UBER, Delta Airlines, and Swing Sports, the convention offers something for everyone—from newcomers and seasoned players to industry insiders. With hands-on activities, live competitions, and a pickleball-inspired fashion show, this promises to be one of the most immersive and energetic gatherings.

• RacquetX Heads to Fort Lauderdale in 2026 - RacquetX is on the move! The premier event for all things racquet sports will relocate to the Broward County Convention Center in Fort Lauderdale for its 2026 edition, taking place from March 13 to 15. While the venue may be new, the mission stays the same: uniting the entire racquet sports world under one roof. Organizers say to expect the same high-energy atmosphere, industry-leading speakers, immersive experiences, and unbeatable networking, only now just up the road in Fort Lauderdale.