The World Pickleball Podcast

Chris Beaumont and Gordon Watson

Chris Beaumont and Gordon Watson chat about the world game of pickleball, uncovering the most fascinating pickleball stories from across the globe in their own fun, unique style. This podcast is perfect for all pickleball fans, especially those who want to know more about what is happening outside of the USA (though hey, the US folks will love it too!) Join us weekly for a light-hearted but very serious world pickleball fix.

  1. 3D AGO

    Matthew Barlow and his PPA Mesa Cup Shock Run: 72nd Seed to Men’s Singles Semi-Finals

    In this episode of the World Pickleball Podcast, host Chris Beaumont speaks with one of the breakout stories of the season: Matthew Barlow, the 72nd seed at the PPA Mesa Cup who stunned the draw by advancing all the way to the men’s singles semi-finals. Matthew shares the inside story of his remarkable run, detailing the matches, mindset shifts, and tactical adjustments that carried him deep into one of the most competitive events on the Professional Pickleball Association calendar. From underdog status to centre-court spotlight, this conversation explores what it takes to compete against top-ranked professionals when expectations are low and pressure is high. Chris and Matthew also discuss preparation at the elite level, the mental resilience required to win back-to-back upsets, and what this breakthrough result means for Matthew’s future on the PPA Tour. Whether you follow professional pickleball rankings, love an underdog story, or want insight into high-performance singles strategy, this episode delivers a compelling look at one of the standout performances from the PPA Mesa Cup. Topics covered include: Matthew Barlow’s semi-final run at the PPA Mesa CupUpset victories and tactical adjustments in men’s singlesMental resilience in professional pickleballWhat a deep tournament run means for rankings and career momentum Subscribe to the World Pickleball Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms for weekly conversations with the players and personalities shaping professional pickleball worldwide.

    26 min

  2. 4D AGO

    PPA Mesa Cup Recap, NCPA Amazon Prime Deal, and Queensland Tour Success

    In this episode of the World Pickleball Podcast, host Chris Beaumont is joined by co-host Gordon Watson to break down a packed weekend across the global pickleball landscape. The discussion opens with full analysis of the PPA Mesa Cup, including key results, standout performances, and what the tournament means for rankings and momentum on the Professional Pickleball Association calendar. Chris and Gordon examine the evolving competitive picture as the season gathers pace. The episode also celebrates Gordon’s success on the Queensland Pickleball Tour, offering insight into the growing strength of the Australian scene and what regional tours are doing to elevate player standards across the Asia-Pacific region. Off the court, the hosts explore a significant development for collegiate pickleball: the NCPA securing a broadcast deal with Amazon Prime and PickleTV. The move signals another step forward for media exposure, commercial growth, and the sport’s expanding presence on major streaming platforms. From professional tour action to grassroots and collegiate expansion, this episode connects the dots across the sport’s rapidly evolving ecosystem. Topics covered include: PPA Mesa Cup results and analysisProfessional Pickleball Association tour developmentsQueensland Pickleball Tour highlightsNCPA broadcast deal with Amazon Prime and PickleTVThe growth of collegiate and international pickleball Subscribe to the World Pickleball Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms for weekly news, analysis, and conversation from across the world of pickleball.

    46 min

  3. FEB 18

    Estee Widdershoven: Belgium’s First PPA Pro and Europe’s Pickleball Rise

    In this episode of the World Pickleball Podcast, host Chris Beaumont speaks with Estee Widdershoven, the first Belgian player to be signed to the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) Tour—a landmark moment for Belgian and European pickleball. Estee shares her journey from discovering pickleball to reaching the professional ranks, offering insight into the training, mindset, and sacrifices required to compete on the world stage. The conversation explores what her PPA signing means for the growth of pickleball in Belgium and across Europe, as well as the opportunities and challenges facing international players entering the American-dominated professional circuit. Chris and Estee also discuss the evolving global pathway in pickleball, the rising standard of European competition, and how breakthrough moments like this can inspire the next generation of players across the continent. Whether you follow professional tours, international development, or the future of European pickleball, this episode provides a compelling look at a historic step forward for the sport. Topics covered include: Estee Widdershoven’s signing with the PPA TourThe rise of pickleball in Belgium and EuropeTraining, mindset, and life as an emerging professionalGlobal pathways into professional pickleball Subscribe to the World Pickleball Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms for weekly conversations with the players and leaders shaping pickleball worldwide.

    58 min

  4. FEB 13

    Wes Gabrielsen on WPBL Glory, Hall of Fame Legacy, and WV Wine & Pickle

    In this episode of the World Pickleball Podcast, host Chris Beaumont is joined by co-host Gordon Watson and special guest Wes Gabrielsen—Head Coach of the Dilli Dillwale, champions of World Pickleball League Season Two, and a 2022 Pickleball Hall of Fame inductee. Wes reflects on the Dilli Dillwale’s title-winning campaign, sharing insight into team culture, preparation, and the tactical decisions that shaped their run to the World Pickleball League championship. The conversation explores what high-performance coaching looks like in modern professional pickleball and how franchise leagues are accelerating the sport’s global growth. Beyond the court, Wes also discusses his entrepreneurial journey, including his lifestyle brand and hospitality venture, WV Wine & Pickle, offering a look at how leading figures in pickleball are building businesses that extend the sport’s culture and community. Listeners can explore more at wvwineandpickle.com and follow the brand’s latest updates on Instagram. From championship coaching lessons to the evolving global pickleball ecosystem, this episode provides rare insight from one of the sport’s most respected figures. Topics covered include: Dilli Dillwale’s World Pickleball League Season Two triumphCoaching philosophy and high-performance team cultureThe global impact of franchise pickleball leaguesWes Gabrielsen’s Hall of Fame journeyWV Wine & Pickle and life beyond competition Subscribe to the World Pickleball Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms for weekly conversations with the players, coaches, and leaders shaping pickleball around the world.

    58 min

  5. FEB 8

    14-Year-Old Pro Camden Chaffin: The Future of Pickleball

    In this episode of the World Pickleball Podcast, host Chris Beaumont sits down with one of the sport’s most exciting young talents, Camden Chaffin, a 14-year-old professional player from the United States who is already making waves on the competitive pickleball scene. Camden shares his journey into professional pickleball, from early development and rapid progression to competing against elite players at such a young age. The conversation explores the mindset required to perform under pressure, how junior athletes are entering the pro ranks earlier than ever, and what Camden’s rise says about the future of the sport. Chris and Camden also discuss training routines, tournament experiences, and the growing opportunities for young players within the expanding global pickleball ecosystem. Listeners will gain insight into the next generation of professional pickleball and the dedication required to succeed at the highest level. Whether you follow junior development, professional competition, or the future stars of pickleball, this episode offers a compelling look at where the sport is heading. Topics covered include: Camden Chaffin’s rise as a teenage professional pickleball playerTraining, competition, and mindset at a young ageThe pathway from junior to pro pickleballWhat the next generation means for the sport’s future Subscribe to the World Pickleball Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms for weekly conversations with the people shaping pickleball around the world.

    42 min

  6. FEB 5

    WPBL Season Two, Australian Open Slam, and Quang Duong’s Wika Move

    In this episode of the World Pickleball Podcast, host Chris Beaumont is joined by co-host Gordon Watson to break down the latest developments across the professional and international pickleball landscape. The conversation begins with an in-depth look at Season Two of the World Pickleball League, assessing the action so far, standout performances, and what the early stages reveal about the league’s competitive balance and global impact. Chris and Gordon then turn their attention to the Australian Open Pickleball Slam, exploring the significance of the event within the growing international calendar and what it signals for pickleball’s continued expansion in the Asia-Pacific region. The episode also covers major player movement, including Quang Duong’s move to Wika, and what the change could mean for sponsorship dynamics, tour competition, and the broader professional ecosystem. Whether you follow elite competition, global tournaments, or the business side of the sport, this episode offers clear insight into where pickleball is heading next. Topics covered include: World Pickleball League Season Two analysisAustralian Open Pickleball Slam overviewQuang Duong’s move to WikaGlobal growth of professional pickleball Subscribe to the World Pickleball Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms for weekly news, analysis, and conversation from across the world of pickleball.

    41 min

  7. JAN 29

    WPBL Opening Days, PPA Rumours, and New Tours Shaping Global Pickleball

    In this episode of the World Pickleball Podcast, host Chris Beaumont is joined by co-host Gordon Watson to break down a packed week of professional and international pickleball news. The discussion opens with analysis of the first two days of the World Pickleball League (WPBL), including early performances, standout moments, and what the opening matches reveal about the direction of the league. From there, Chris and Gordon turn to growing rumours linking Sofia Sewing to a potential move to the PPA, examining what such a shift could mean for both player and tour. The episode also covers PPA Indoors in Minnesota, with insights into the event, conditions, and its place on the professional calendar. Attention then shifts to Paddle Battle, the new Pickleball Kingdom reality TV show, where winners earn a coveted spot on the APP Tour, blending entertainment with competitive opportunity. To close, the hosts explore the launch of TOPSERIES, a new EMEA pickleball tour, and what it signals for the sport’s rapid growth across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. This episode is essential listening for players, fans, and industry insiders tracking the evolving landscape of global pickleball. Topics covered include: World Pickleball League opening daysSofia Sewing and PPA transfer rumoursPPA Indoors MinnesotaPaddle Battle reality TV show and APP Tour pathwayTOPSERIES and the expansion of pickleball in EMEA Subscribe to the World Pickleball Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms for weekly analysis and insight into the biggest stories in pickleball worldwide.

    55 min

  8. JAN 22

    WPBL Season Two Preview: Teams, Players, and Pickleball Predictions

    In this episode of the World Pickleball Podcast, host Chris Beaumont and co-host Gordon Watson dive deep into one of the most anticipated moments in professional pickleball: Season Two of the World Pickleball League (WPBL). Chris and Gordon preview what’s ahead for WPBL Season 2, set for January 24 to February 8, 2026, at Jio World Garden in Mumbai, India. They discuss the league’s expansion and global significance as teams prepare to battle it out in one of the sport’s most ambitious franchise competitions. With players from around the world drafted into city-based teams and a festival-style fan experience planned, this season is shaping up to be a milestone for pickleball’s growth and global profile. (wpbl.org) The hosts break down key storylines, including the diverse mix of international talent entering the draft, how the WPBL blends sport with entertainment, and what this means for players, fans, and markets beyond India. Whether you’re tracking franchise expansion, elite pickleball competition, or the sport’s rising global footprint, this episode gives you a front-row seat to Season 2’s build-up. (wpbl.org) Topics covered in this episode include: Preview of World Pickleball League Season Two in MumbaiNew franchise teams and international player draft insightsWPBL’s focus on fan engagement and sportainmentHow WPBL fits into the global pickleball landscape Subscribe to the World Pickleball Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms for weekly news and insights about the sport’s biggest developments.

    1h 2m
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About

Chris Beaumont and Gordon Watson chat about the world game of pickleball, uncovering the most fascinating pickleball stories from across the globe in their own fun, unique style. This podcast is perfect for all pickleball fans, especially those who want to know more about what is happening outside of the USA (though hey, the US folks will love it too!) Join us weekly for a light-hearted but very serious world pickleball fix.

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