On November 27th in Pickleball history, a significant event took place in 2022 when the first-ever Major League Pickleball (MLP) Championship was held at the Dreamland Dripping Springs in Austin, Texas. This event marked a milestone in the growing popularity and professionalization of the sport.

The championship featured 16 teams, each consisting of two men and two women, competing for a prize pool of $150,000. The teams were drafted by captains who selected players based on their rankings and performances throughout the year.

In a thrilling final match, the Florida Smash, led by captain and pickleball legend Ben Johns, faced off against the 5's Company, captained by Michelle Esquivel. The Florida Smash team, which also included Anna Leigh Waters, Tyson McGuffin, and Maggie Remynse, demonstrated their skills and teamwork, ultimately securing the championship title with a score of 3-1.

The event attracted thousands of spectators and was broadcast live on the CBS Sports Network, exposing pickleball to a wider audience and solidifying its position as one of the fastest-growing sports in the United States. The MLP Championship showcased the high level of competition and the increasing skill of professional pickleball players.

This historic event not only provided exciting matches for fans but also helped to further legitimize pickleball as a professional sport, setting the stage for future growth and opportunities for players and enthusiasts alike.