Pickleball, the rapidly growing sport in America, has attracted a large number of recreational players across all age groups. However, it is also a professional sport that provides a source of income for top-tier athletes. These elite players have the potential to earn over $1 million per year through appearance fees, prize money, and sponsorship deals. But it’s important to note that these high earners are the exception rather than the norm. Most pickleball players earn significantly less, with some up-and-coming players having full-time day jobs and competing for prize money on weekends.
According to Josh Freedman, the director of pickleball at Topnotch Management, success in the sport requires talent, hard work, and dedication both on and off the court. While some players may secure ambassadorial sponsorship deals ranging from $500 to $1,000, the financial prospects are much smaller for those new to the sport.
However, as pickleball continues to gain attention from fans, investors, and sponsors, the professional landscape could become more lucrative for players in the future. Major League Pickleball, one of the three professional pickleball tours, estimates that the total prize money for 2023 will amount to $5 million across six events. The highest-earning player in the first three events of 2023 won $125,000 in prize money. Additionally, league players receive guaranteed payments for showing up, even if their performance is not stellar in every event. In the best-case scenario, a player could earn up to $300,000 in a year from appearance fees, contract minimums, and tournament winnings, according to MLP.
While some professionals compete full-time and rely solely on pickleball-related earnings, others have second jobs during the week and participate in tournaments on weekends. Professional players can also compete for prize money in other pickleball tours, such as the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) and the Association of Pickleball Players (APP). The PPA will distribute $5.5 million in prize money to players in 2023, a notable increase from the previous year. In 2022, the average payout for a PPA professional was $96,000.
With the rising popularity of pickleball, there is an expectation that tournament prize money will significantly increase as the sport gains more visibility and attracts big brands such as Monster Energy, Sketchers, and Fila. While lucrative sponsorship deals and opportunities exist in this fast-growing sport, it is important to understand that success requires hard work and dedication.
Overall, pickleball presents unique opportunities for players to make a living, but it is not an easy path. With talent, hard work, and determination, players can potentially enjoy a fulfilling career in the sport.
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