In a transformative development for the sport of pickleball, Pickleball Inc. has forged a partnership with PlayReplay, a pioneer in sports technology renowned for its AI-driven line calling and performance analytics. This collaboration positions Pickleball Inc. as the exclusive global distributor of PlayReplay’s innovative technology within the pickleball community.
This alliance marks a significant leap forward in the evolution of pickleball, as Pickleball Inc. seeks to incorporate advanced technology at every level of the game. This initiative will impact professional tournaments on the PPA Tour and Major League Pickleball (MLP), as well as recreational clubs and public facilities across the United States.
Hans Lundstam, CEO and Co-founder of PlayReplay, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “We are thrilled to collaborate with the PPA, not only because they are the leading league globally but also due to their exceptional team. This partnership will elevate pickleball to unprecedented levels.”
Automated Line Calls Set for 2026 Launch
The introduction of this technology is strategically timed to align with the United Pickleball Association’s (UPA) shift to a prize money model in 2026 for both the PPA Tour and MLP. As the stakes for professional players increase, so do concerns regarding line call disputes and potential cheating. Pickleball Inc. is proactively addressing these challenges by implementing AI technology to ensure accuracy and fairness in officiating.
“Our goal is to reduce tension and human error in officiating,” Lundstam explained. “Our AI systems have transformed line calling in tennis, and we are eager to bring that same level of clarity and fairness to pickleball.”
The system utilizes a compact setup of four cameras mounted on net posts, designed to be unobtrusive for both players and spectators. These cameras operate in real-time to accurately detect line calls, foot faults, and kitchen violations. Additionally, loudspeakers will announce calls live on the court, mimicking the familiar “out” and “fault” calls known to tennis fans.
“We provide two main modes: a Review mode for challenging calls with animated replays, and a Live mode for real-time announcements,” Lundstam elaborated. “Users can even customize the voice or add entertaining elements like a lion’s roar.”
Harnessing AI and Data for Enhanced Performance
Beyond line calls, PlayReplay’s system offers a comprehensive performance tracking platform. The cameras and edge units capture critical data on shot types, ball speed, spin rate, and shot placement.
“We analyze vital information from every frame and utilize AI to interpret the action,” Lundstam noted. “The system becomes increasingly intelligent over time, providing deeper insights for players at all levels.”
With over 100 million line calls recorded across more than 250,000 matches, PlayReplay boasts one of the largest datasets in racquet sports, enhancing the refinement of its AI capabilities.
Vision for the Future: From Professional Tournaments to Community Courts
Initially, the technology will be implemented on the PPA Tour and MLP, but Pickleball Inc. has plans to extend its reach to players nationwide. The ultimate vision is to create a connected ecosystem where recreational players, clubs, and facilities can access the same tools as professional athletes, whether for officiating, training, or competitive insights.
“This initiative is not confined to professional events,” Lundstam emphasized. “We aim to democratize access to performance data, and our partnership with Pickleball Inc. will make this vision a reality, providing amateur players with elite-level insights and ensuring fair play.”
Eventually, recreational players will have the opportunity to review their match data and monitor their progress. Clubs and facilities can adopt PlayReplay’s lightweight, scalable camera system without disrupting play or requiring complex setups.
Key Features of the Partnership
- Pickleball Inc. becomes the official global distributor of PlayReplay technology for the sport.
- Automated line calls will debut at PPA and MLP events starting in 2026, coinciding with the introduction of a prize money model for professionals.
- The system will accurately detect in/out calls, service faults, lets, kitchen violations, and more using high-speed AI processing.
- PlayReplay technology will also provide advanced performance analytics, including ball speed, spin, and shot type detection.
- Long-term plans include expanding access to clubs, recreational facilities, and amateur players across the United States.
- The partnership aims to eliminate line-call controversies, enhance player development, and modernize the infrastructure of the sport.