The World Pickleball Podcast

Chris Beaumont and Gordon Watson
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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. 4D AGO

    Gustaf Getarud on Europe’s Pickleball Boom, Smart Play, and the Battle for the Sport’s Future

    In this episode of the World Pickleball Podcast, Chris Beaumont sits down with one of the most influential figures in European pickleball, Gustaf Getarud, to talk about playing, building and thinking the game at a high level. Gustaf discusses how a corporate background in leadership and recruitment has shaped his approach on court, why process and problem-solving matter so much in pickleball, and how he has stayed competitive against stronger athletes with deeper racket-sport backgrounds. The conversation also moves into the bigger picture. Together, Chris and Gustaf look at the changing European tournament scene, the risks of oversaturation, the tension between open competition and exclusivity, and what Europe can learn from the tour wars in the United States. There is also insight into: why European players often approach the game differently from Americanshow Gustaf adapted after training in the USthe value of drilling for difficult match situationswhy flexibility of style matters more than many coaches admitthe players and partnerships to watch in Europe right nowwhy Gustaf believes Francesca Romani could become Europe’s number one before the end of the year If you want a podcast that goes beyond surface-level chat and gets into how European pickleball is actually being built, this is one worth listening to. Listen on Spotify, iTunes and other major podcast platforms, or find more at worldpickleballmagazine.com.

    36 min

  2. 5D AGO

    Anna Leigh Waters, Hanoi pressure, Phuc Huynh, Ly Hoang Nam and Chris Haworth No.1

    In this week’s World Pickleball Podcast, Chris Beaumont and Gordon Watson dig into the biggest talking points from the MB Hanoi Cup and the wider pro game. The show opens with a light-hearted detour into English Open plans before turning to the real debate: Anna Leigh Waters withdrawing from women’s singles in Hanoi after a packed run of tournaments. Chris and Gordon discuss whether the professional schedule is starting to ask too much of the sport’s biggest names, and whether it was the right look for Waters’ first major international appearance in Vietnam. They also get into Phuc Huynh’s decision not to play, the wider concerns around PPA Asia exclusivity, and whether some American players are being protected too far into the draw at the expense of local and regional talent. From there, the conversation moves courtside. Chris and Gordon break down Ly Hoang Nam’s controversial win over Christian Alshon, the disputed line call that followed, and what the result means for Vietnam’s growing place in the pro game. There is also discussion of Hong Kit Wong and Eunggwon Kim’s big doubles win over Tyson McGuffin and Riley Newman, Mitchell Hargreaves’ strong run, the women’s singles picture in Hanoi, and the early shape of the mixed doubles and women’s doubles draws. The episode then shifts back to the United States, where Chris Haworth’s rise to world No.1 in men’s singles is placed under the microscope. Chris and Gordon also talk about how hard it is becoming to close out matches against the sport’s very best players, what that says about the current level beneath the elite, and whether the PPA’s dominance is helping or hurting the storytelling around the pro game. This episode covers: Anna Leigh Waters withdrawing from singles in Hanoiwhether the pro schedule is becoming too congestedPhuc Huynh’s boycott and the PPA Asia contract debateLy Hoang Nam’s win over Christian Alshonthe line-call controversy in HanoiHong Kit Wong and Eunggwon Kim’s standout doubles resultMitchell Hargreaves’ strong runChris Haworth becoming world No.1why top players are becoming harder to close out against For weekly global pickleball journalism, visit World Pickleball Magazine and sign up for the World Pickleball Report.

    45 min

  3. MAR 31

    Talent Isn’t the Problem — Bálint Bakó on What Europe Still Lacks

    Bálint Bakó is one of the most interesting players in European pickleball right now, and in this episode of the World Pickleball Podcast, Chris Beaumont sits down with the Hungarian star to explore the journey behind his rise. From his background in the demanding Hungarian junior tennis system to his rapid emergence as one of Europe’s leading singles players, Bakó opens up on the moments that shaped him, the matches that changed his belief, and the realities of trying to build an international career in pickleball from Europe. He reflects on his breakthrough in Malmö, the lessons learned from major battles across the continent, the pain of his injury in Rome, and the huge experience of competing in the World Pickleball League in Mumbai. Bakó also discusses what separates the best Asian and American players from Europe’s top names, and why he believes the gap is not talent, but exposure, opportunity, and repetition at the highest level. This is a conversation about ambition, pressure, funding, growth, and what it really takes to try to break through in the global game. In this episode, we cover: Bálint’s tennis background and how he found pickleballWhy Malmö became a turning point in his careerHis singles mindset and how he sees his own gameWhat he learned from top European rivalsThe injury moment in Rome and how he respondedLife inside the World Pickleball League in MumbaiHis biggest win so far against Dang Hoang NguyenWhy European players need more exposure to close the gap globallyHis goals for the rest of 2026 If you enjoy the podcast, make sure you follow World Pickleball Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms, and head to worldpickleballmagazine.com for daily global pickleball news, analysis, and interviews.

    49 min

  4. MAR 24

    Vietnam’s Pickleball Rise, English Open Costs, and Gamma Bankruptcy

    In this episode of the World Pickleball Podcast, host Chris Beaumont and co-host Gordon Watson break down another fascinating week across the global pickleball landscape, from emerging tours in Asia to major industry developments. The conversation opens with discussion around the D-Joy Tour and the rapid rise of pickleball in Vietnam, including insights from recent conversations with top European player Ben Cawston and the significance of Vietnam being announced as a future host of the Pickleball World Cup. Chris and Gordon explore what this means for the sport’s expansion into Southeast Asia and how new markets are accelerating pickleball’s global reach. Attention then turns to the UK, where English Open registrations are set to open, sparking a wider discussion around the increasing cost of entering pickleball tournaments and what that means for accessibility, participation, and the long-term health of the competitive scene. The episode also highlights one of the more unique growth stories in North America, with churches in Quebec being converted into indoor pickleball facilities, reflecting the ongoing demand for court space and the creative solutions emerging to meet it. Finally, Chris and Gordon address a significant industry development, discussing Gamma filing for bankruptcy and what the news could signal for the pickleball equipment market, brand competition, and the broader business landscape of the sport. From grassroots innovation to global expansion and industry shake-ups, this episode connects the key storylines shaping pickleball’s continued growth worldwide. Topics covered include: D-Joy Tour and pickleball growth in VietnamVietnam announced as a future Pickleball World Cup hostEnglish Open registrations and tournament entry costsQuebec churches converted into pickleball facilitiesGamma bankruptcy and its impact on the industry Subscribe to the World Pickleball Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms for weekly analysis, interviews, and insight into the biggest stories in pickleball around the world.

    55 min

  5. MAR 19

    Ben Cawston: Europe’s No.1, 17 golds, and the surprising sporting crossover

    In this episode of the World Pickleball Podcast, host Chris Beaumont sits down with one of the most dominant forces in global pickleball right now: Ben Cawston, the RTA European No. 1 in Men’s Doubles, reigning European Champion, and one of the fastest-rising players in the sport. At just 23 years old, Ben has already built a remarkable sporting résumé. A former World No. 1 in rackets and the youngest Rackets World Champion in over a century, he transitioned into pickleball in 2023 and has since taken complete control of the European scene. Alongside his partner Théo Platel, he remains unbeaten in Europe, with 17 European Pro gold medals and a record-leading 5.807 DUPR rating, the highest of any player competing on the continent. In this conversation, Ben breaks down his dominant 2026 season, including recent gold medal performances in Vienna, Rome, and Barcelona, and explains the tactical chemistry behind his unstoppable partnership. He also reflects on his unique sporting background, from tracking 185mph rackets shots to becoming one of the most feared players at the pickleball kitchen line. The discussion then expands to the global stage. Ben shares insights from competing on the PPA Tour, his experience in PPA Asia, and his role as a star international player in the World Pickleball League. He also analyses his narrow loss to top American pros at the Hangzhou Open, offering a clear view of how close Europe’s best are to breaking through at the highest level. From European dominance to global ambition, this episode provides a rare look at one of the sport’s most fascinating crossover athletes and what the future of international pickleball may look like. Topics covered include: Ben Cawston’s dominance in European pickleballPartnership success with Théo PlatelRTA rankings and DUPR performance metricsTransition from rackets world champion to pickleball proCompeting on the PPA Tour and PPA AsiaWorld Pickleball League and global expansionTactical insights into elite doubles play Subscribe to the World Pickleball Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms for weekly conversations with the players, coaches, and innovators shaping pickleball worldwide.

    52 min

  6. MAR 18

    PPA Texas Wind Chaos, PPA Sydney, and the 2026 Pickleball World Cup

    In this episode of the World Pickleball Podcast, host Chris Beaumont and co-host Gordon Watson break down a packed week across the global pickleball scene, covering tour action, international developments, and one particularly heated debate. The episode opens with a look at what Chris and Gordon have been working on, before diving straight into the latest professional action. Gordon shares insight from the PPA Sydney event, analysing standout performances and what the results mean for the APAC region. The discussion then shifts to the PPA Texas Open, where extreme wind conditions, triple crown success, and unpredictable matches created one of the most talked-about events of the season. A major talking point follows, as Chris reacts strongly to a proposal suggesting that top PPA doubles pairs should be split up to create a more competitive field. The debate explores competitive balance, player dynamics, and what makes elite pickleball compelling to watch. Beyond the pro tours, the episode expands into the international game. Chris and Gordon cover developments from WPC Asia, the opening of bidding for the Pan American Pickleball Games, and the continued growth of infrastructure with a new dedicated pickleball centre in Auckland. The conversation also looks ahead to major global events, including confirmed dates and host city speculation for the 2026 Pickleball World Cup, as well as the evolving structure of the Caribbean Championships, which are adopting a World Cup-style format. From tour-level drama to global expansion, this episode connects the key storylines shaping pickleball’s rapid growth worldwide. Topics covered include: PPA Sydney and APAC tour developmentsPPA Texas Open and extreme playing conditionsDebate over splitting top PPA doubles pairsWPC Asia updatesPan American Pickleball Games bidding processAuckland’s dedicated pickleball facility2026 Pickleball World Cup planningCaribbean Championships format changes Subscribe to the World Pickleball Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms for weekly analysis, interviews, and insight into the biggest stories in pickleball around the world.

    1h 13m

  7. MAR 12

    PPA Asia, Nick Kyrgios, and the English Open in Global Pickleball Focus

    In this episode of the World Pickleball Podcast, host Chris Beaumont is joined by co-host Gordon Watson to break down another busy week across the global pickleball landscape. The show opens with a look at what Chris and Gordon have been working on behind the scenes, including the continued growth of World Pickleball Magazine and its expanding global coverage of the sport. From there, the hosts dive into the biggest stories on the professional circuit. The discussion begins with the PPA Tour action from the Newport Beach Open, analysing the key performances and storylines from one of the tour’s major early-season stops. The Professional Pickleball Association calendar continues to expand globally with events across North America, Asia and Australia. Chris and Gordon also touch on the PPA Asia expansion, including the upcoming Hanoi Cup in Vietnam where top stars like Anna Leigh Waters are expected to headline the tour’s growing international presence. The conversation then shifts to the business side of the sport, including tennis star Nick Kyrgios increasing his involvement in pickleball through investment and partnership with the rapidly expanding pickleball club operator The Picklr, highlighting the sport’s accelerating commercial momentum. The episode also highlights grassroots innovation, including a hybrid inclusive pickleball tournament in the UK, demonstrating how the sport continues to evolve through new formats designed to bring different levels and communities together on court. Finally, Chris previews key upcoming events on the international calendar, including details around the English Open Pickleball Championships, before finishing with a look inside the latest issue of World Pickleball Magazine. Whether you follow the professional tours, the business of pickleball, or the sport’s growing grassroots movement, this episode connects the biggest developments shaping the global pickleball scene. Topics covered in this episode include: PPA Tour action and results from the Newport Beach OpenExpansion of the PPA Tour into AsiaNick Kyrgios’ increasing investment in pickleballInnovative hybrid pickleball tournaments in the UKEnglish Open Pickleball Championships updatesThe latest issue of World Pickleball Magazine Subscribe to the World Pickleball Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms for weekly analysis, interviews, and conversations with the players, coaches and leaders driving pickleball’s global rise.

    55 min

  8. MAR 6

    Jack Munro on Reaching No. 1 on the APP Tour and Staying There

    In this episode of the World Pickleball Podcast, host Chris Beaumont sits down with Jack Munro, the #1 ranked male player on the APP Tour, to discuss his rise to the top of professional pickleball. Jack shares the story behind his journey through the competitive ranks, detailing the training, mindset, and strategic evolution that helped him reach the number one position on the Association of Pickleball Players (APP) Tour. From early breakthroughs to navigating the pressure that comes with being the player everyone is chasing, this conversation offers rare insight into life at the top of the professional game. Chris and Jack also explore the current state of the APP Tour, the level of competition across the professional circuit, and how the global growth of pickleball is shaping opportunities for elite players. The discussion includes Jack’s approach to singles and doubles strategy, maintaining consistency across tournaments, and what it takes to stay ahead in one of the fastest-growing sports in the world. Whether you follow the APP Tour closely or want to understand what it takes to become the world’s top-ranked pickleball player, this episode delivers an inside look at elite performance and the future of professional pickleball. Topics covered include: Jack Munro’s journey to #1 on the APP TourTraining, mindset, and elite player preparationThe current state of the APP professional circuitStrategies for staying at the top of the rankingsThe future of professional pickleball Subscribe to the World Pickleball Podcast on iTunes, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms for weekly conversations with the players and personalities shaping pickleball around the world.

    57 min
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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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