Pickleball’s Most Misplayed Shot

An Indoor Facility Unlike Any Other + US Open Results

Author

Empower Pickleball
April 21, 2026

The US Open may be over, but pickleball isn’t slowing down. We’re recapping the biggest winners from Naples and the moments that stood out most.

We’ve also got a simple fix for better third-shot drops, plus two stories showing where the sport is headed next.

From next-level indoor clubs to grassroots leaders building real community, pickleball keeps getting bigger—and better.

Inside:

  • Why consistency separates good players from great ones

  • An indoor facility offering more than just pickleball

  • The brands trying to fix pickleball’s growing waste problem

🏆 The Party’s Over

Photo Credit: US Open Pickleball Championships

The US Open wrapped on Saturday, and The Biggest Pickleball Party in the World™ officially came to an end. The tournament’s 10th anniversary certainly lived up to the hype.

Anna Leigh Waters captured two gold medals in the two events she entered—but it wasn’t the runaway domination many expected. She and Jay Devilliers had to earn it, closing out the mixed doubles final with an 11-2, 11-9 victory.

Her most impressive title may have come in women’s doubles alongside her mom, Leigh Waters. Leigh proved she can still bring the fire and reminded everyone that one of pickleball’s greatest strengths is how it brings generations together on the same court.

Here’s a look at the champions from Naples:

Women's Pro Singles: Katerina Stewart
Men's Pro Singles: Dusty Boyer
Women's Pro Doubles: Anna Leigh Waters & Leigh Waters
Men's Pro Doubles: Richard Livornese Jr. & Jack Munro
Mixed Pro Doubles: Anna Leigh Waters & Jay Devilliers

👉 Find the full results and medalists from each division here.

🌎 Around the Picklesphere

🎾 Team tennis shocked world’s best at $1M Slam
🌐 Meet the Empower Circle
⚔️ Offensive behavior: Using the lob as a weapon
🧑‍🧑‍🧒‍🧒 Be a part of the Empower Pickleball Fam and save 30% with code EMPOWER30

🤫 The Secret to Better Third-Shot Drops

The third-shot drop is one of pickleball’s most important shots because it helps you move from the baseline to the kitchen and take control of the point.

Most drops fail for three simple reasons:

  • Too much power instead of touch

  • Poor balance while reaching or leaning

  • Trying to hit the perfect shot instead of a smart one

Focus on a smooth swing, a slight arc over the net, and aim for the middle of the kitchen rather than the lines.

👉 Need a drill to test your skills? Find more in the full article here.

Play or Watch—Cincinnati Is Getting a Full Week of Pickleball

The 2026 APP Vlasic Classic Cincinnati is back June 11–14, and it’s open to anyone who wants in.

If you’ve been thinking about competing, this is your shot. Players of all ages and skill levels can register, with a chance to qualify for the USA Pickleball National Championships.

Not playing? You’ll still want to be there.

Top pros will be on-site, along with interactive events like Beat the Pro and Champ of the Court—so you’re not just watching, you’re part of it.

👉 Register or grab tickets here.

☕️ Chip’s Pickleball Club Is Redefining Indoor Play

Most indoor pickleball spots give you courts, and call it a day—Chip’s Pickleball Club in Minnesota built something much bigger.

This 12-court destination blends pickleball, wellness, food, and community into one modern experience.

  • Sauna, cold plunge, and recovery spaces

  • Café + full bar for pregame coffee or post-match drinks

  • Open play, leagues, clinics, and private events for all levels

It’s the kind of place where matches end, but nobody leaves. If this is the future of indoor pickleball, players are going to love where the sport is headed.

👉 See why Chip’s could be the future of indoor pickleball.

♻️ Can Pickleball Go Green? Some Brands Are Trying

Pickleball’s growth has created a new challenge: what happens to all the broken balls, worn-out paddles, and discarded gear?

As millions join the sport, a few companies are working on smarter, more sustainable solutions.

  • Revolin Sports uses natural flax fibers in paddles

  • Komodo BioBall is developing biodegradable pickleballs

  • Reload Paddle is testing replaceable paddle faces instead of full replacements

  • RePickle Project is building recycling programs for used balls

The sport is still early in its sustainability journey, but the conversation is finally starting.

As pickleball keeps growing, the next big win may be learning how to grow without all the waste.

👉 See which companies are leading the way here.

🏫 Rick Witsken Is Growing Pickleball Where It Matters Most

While many focus on pro tours, Rick Witsken is helping build pickleball from the ground up.

The former tennis pro is coaching camps, running programs in Indiana, launching leagues, and creating new opportunities for overlooked players.

Here are some highlights:

  • Started middle school pickleball programs and interscholastic matches

  • Co-founded what is now known as MLP Champions Series for 50+ pros

  • Operates out of a 15-court indoor facility while still coaching nationwide

His focus isn’t just winning—it’s community, connection, and long-term growth.

👉 If you want to see where pickleball is really headed, Rick Witsken offers a pretty clear blueprint.

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