The 1965 Group (1965) Acquires World Pickleball Tour (WPT) to Enhance Player Experience Nationwide
Carmel, Indiana, July 9, 2024 – The 1965 Group (1965) proudly announces the acquisition of the World Pickleball Tour (WPT), a significant step towards advancing the sport's accessibility and player experience on a global scale.
Established in 2021, 1965 entered the pickleball tournament space by introducing the Amateur Pickleball Association (APA). APA has been dedicated to expanding tournament access and elevating player experiences across the United States since its inception. The acquisition of WPT aligns seamlessly with APA's mission to cultivate the sport's growth and enrich the community of pickleball enthusiasts.
"Today marks a pivotal moment for pickleball as APA joins forces with the World Pickleball Tour," said Tom Davidson, CEO of 1965 Group. "The vision of 1965 Group to enhance player experiences through increased tournament access resonates deeply with our commitment to fostering a thriving pickleball community. Together, APA and WPT will continue to innovate and elevate the sport for amateur players nationwide."
Founded with the goal of revolutionizing the player experience, APA has rapidly expanded its footprint in the pickleball community. Since launching in 2022 with over 30 tournaments hosted at prestigious college tennis facilities across the country, APA has grown exponentially. In 2024, APA now boasts nearly 100 tournaments annually, attracting over 15,000 participants from 40+ states and Canada. These events not only showcase top-tier competition but also provide a platform for players of all levels to engage and excel in the sport they love.
"The integration of World Pickleball Tour into APA's framework represents a significant opportunity to enhance tournament quality and expand player opportunities," Davidson added. "By leveraging the strengths of both organizations, we aim to create unparalleled experiences that inspire and empower amateur pickleball players worldwide."
Under the acquisition, 1965 will leverage WPT's expertise in organizing premier pickleball events to enhance its tournament offerings and community engagement initiatives. The partnership of these brands is poised to redefine the pickleball landscape, ensuring a bright future for the sport and its dedicated community.
For more information about the Amateur Pickleball Association and upcoming events, visit https://apatournaments.com/. Stay tuned for updates on how APA and WPT are shaping the future of pickleball.
About Amateur Pickleball Association (APA)
Founded under the 1965 Group umbrella, APA is committed to expanding pickleball's reach and enhancing player experiences through high-quality tournaments and community-driven initiatives. With nearly 100 tournaments annually, APA continues to lead the charge in growing the sport across the United States.
About the World Pickleball Tour (WPT)
The World Pickleball Tour (WPT) is pickleball for the players. The WPT is the world's largest amateur pickleball series, creating player-focused experiences and tour events designed to ignite and nourish the love of pickleball. Events held across the country bring players together to test their skills. The WPT also offers camps, clinics, luxury sports tourism opportunities, and charity activations, all designed to maximize the user experience and build player communities.
