Kyle Yates: MLP Australia

 

Kyle Yates Sets Sights on Global Pickleball Domination with MLP Australia

Former World No. 1 Discusses Tournament Strategies, International Growth, and the Future of the Sport

In a thrilling development for pickleball enthusiasts worldwide, former world number one and US Open Champion Kyle Yates is gearing up for his debut in Major League Pickleball (MLP) Australia. The pickle pulse is buzzing with excitement as Yates, now the number six overall pick in Australia's MLP draft, prepares to showcase his skills on an international stage. In an exclusive interview with Brian Green on The Pickle Pulse podcast, Yates shares his insights on the upcoming tournament, the global expansion of pickleball, and the evolving landscape of professional play. With his trademark enthusiasm and deep knowledge of the sport, Yates offers a tantalizing glimpse into the future of pickleball and his role in shaping its worldwide growth.

1. 00:00, Intro,

Kyle Yates, a pickleball legend in his own right, joins Brian Green on The Pickle Pulse podcast for the second time this year to discuss his upcoming adventure with MLP Australia. The enthusiasm is palpable as Yates, known for his strategic gameplay and innovative shots, prepares to take his talents Down Under. This introduction sets the stage for an in-depth conversation about the sport's global expansion and Yates' personal journey in the world of professional pickleball. (March 2024: Pickle Pulse Interview with Kyle Yates)

2. 00:55, Follow up on what Kyle has been up to with his Pickler facilities,

Yates provides an update on his involvement with Pickler, a company dedicated to creating indoor pickleball facilities. He describes the meticulous process of scouting locations, emphasizing the specific requirements needed for an ideal pickleball venue. Yates' perfectionist approach shines through as he discusses the importance of column spacing, ceiling height, and court layout. His excitement is evident as he announces upcoming facility openings in Thornton, Colorado, and Cheyenne, Wyoming, highlighting the growing demand for year-round pickleball access.

3. 03:29, Thoughts on the Pro's moving indoors for tournaments,

The conversation shifts to the potential for more professional tournaments to be held indoors. Yates shares his experience with the Indoor Pickleball Tour, discussing recent events in Las Vegas and Atlantic City. He expresses enthusiasm for the controlled environment that indoor play offers, eliminating variables like wind and extreme temperatures. Yates also hints at exciting future developments, including the possibility of tournaments at iconic venues like the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, showcasing the sport's growing mainstream appeal.

4. 05:21, Kyles training for MLP Australia,

Yates delves into his rigorous training regimen as he prepares for MLP Australia. He describes a grueling schedule that includes multiple practice sessions per day, simulating the demands of tournament play. Yates emphasizes the importance of building endurance and adapting to the stop-and-start nature of competitive pickleball. His dedication to improvement and his strategic approach to training highlight the evolving professionalism of the sport at its highest levels.

5. 08:03, Wearing purple for a reason,

In a light-hearted moment, Yates reveals his choice of purple attire, connecting it to multiple aspects of his pickleball journey. He celebrates the recent gold medal win of Max Manthal, nicknamed "Purple Jesus," and expresses excitement about his new Australian team, the Brisbane Breakers, whose jerseys will be purple. This anecdote showcases the camaraderie and personal connections that make pickleball unique among professional sports.

6. 08:45, Why did you choose to play MLP Australia,

Yates articulates his motivations for participating in MLP Australia, blending personal and professional reasons. He expresses a desire to explore a new part of the world while also contributing to the growth of pickleball internationally. Yates sees his participation as an opportunity to bring value to the league, leveraging his status as a former world champion to generate excitement and interest in the sport across the Asia-Pacific region.

7. 10:31, DUPR's are really low for Kyle's opponents,

The discussion turns to the Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating (DUPR) system and its application in international competition. Yates provides insight into the potential discrepancies in ratings between players from different regions, cautioning against underestimating opponents based solely on their DUPR. He highlights the talent of several international players, emphasizing the competitive nature of the global pickleball scene and the potential for surprises in tournament play.

8. 13:02, The land of creepy things that can kill you? Spiders or snakes? Sharks or Crocs,

In a humorous interlude, Yates shares his thoughts on Australia's notorious wildlife. He admits to a preference for snakes over spiders, recounting a hair-raising encounter with a crocodile during a recent surfing trip to Costa Rica. This lighthearted exchange adds a personal touch to the conversation, highlighting the adventurous spirit that drives Yates both on and off the pickleball court.

9. 15:03, diving in Australia,

Yates expresses his excitement about the opportunity to explore Australia's underwater wonders. As a certified scuba diver, he looks forward to diving in the Great Barrier Reef and potentially swimming with whale sharks. This segment showcases Yates' adventurous spirit and his desire to fully immerse himself in the Australian experience beyond the pickleball court.

10. 15:35, What's the most exciting Venue to play at MLP Australia,

Yates shares his anticipation for the various venues in the MLP Australia tour, including Brisbane, Vietnam, and potentially Melbourne. He expresses particular enthusiasm for the Gold Coast's beaches and surfing opportunities, as well as the cultural experiences awaiting in Southeast Asia. Yates' eagerness to explore new places and cultures demonstrates the unique opportunities that professional pickleball is creating for its top players.

11. 17:07, "The Kyle Yates" Kyles shot and new shots that he's working on,

The conversation turns to Yates' signature shot and his ongoing efforts to innovate his gameplay. While keeping the details of his new techniques under wraps, Yates hints at significant changes to his playing style. He teases that fans can expect to see a different Kyle Yates on the court in Australia, building anticipation for his international debut and showcasing the constant evolution required to stay competitive at the highest levels of the sport.

12. 18:54, Draft strategy, taking Ladies vs. men,

Yates offers insightful analysis of the MLP Australia draft strategy, particularly the trend of selecting female players early. He explains the importance of team balance and the value of securing top-tier local talent, especially in a developing pickleball market. Yates' breakdown of the draft process reveals the complex considerations teams must navigate, balancing international star power with local talent development.

13. 25:45, India's top pickleball players, and pickleball India,

The discussion shifts to the emerging pickleball scene in India, with Yates praising the skill and potential of players like Arman Baa and Harsh Meta. He highlights the rapid growth of the sport in India and the increasing competitiveness of Indian players on the international stage. Yates' enthusiasm for the global expansion of pickleball is evident as he discusses the potential for the sport to explode in popularity across Asia.

14. 27:37, Growing Pickleball worldwide, and The new #1 team in US Pro Pickleball,

Yates reflects on the recent shake-up in the US professional pickleball rankings, with Dylan Frazier and JW Johnson ascending to the top spot. He offers a nuanced perspective on the challenges of maintaining dominance in a rapidly evolving sport, while also celebrating the rise of homegrown talent like Frazier. Yates' analysis demonstrates his deep understanding of the sport's competitive landscape and its potential for continued growth.

15. 30:45, Anna Leigh dominates and the ladies trying to catch up,

The conversation turns to the women's professional scene, with Yates providing insight into Anna Leigh Waters' dominance. He attributes her success not just to skill, but to her mental fortitude and ability to adapt under pressure. Yates discusses the challenges facing other top female players as they attempt to close the gap, offering a thoughtful analysis of the psychological aspects of high-level competition.

16. 34:19, The current scatter of pro pickleball and 100+ qualifiers in men's singles,

Yates marvels at the explosive growth of professional pickleball, citing the recent tournament that saw over 100 players competing for qualification spots. He reflects on the sport's rapid evolution from his early days of competition to the current landscape of packed tournaments and increasing international participation. Yates' excitement for the future of pickleball is palpable as he discusses the potential for continued growth and the emergence of young talent.

17. 36:45, How can we keep up with the GOAT Kyle Yates?,

As the interview wraps up, Yates shares how fans can follow his journey in MLP Australia and beyond. He directs followers to his Instagram account, @kyleyates.pb, for updates on his tournaments, travels, and pickleball adventures. Yates' engagement with his fans through social media underscores the accessibility of top players in the pickleball community, a unique aspect of the sport that contributes to its growing popularity. 

Summary:

Kyle Yates, former world number one pickleball player, is set to make his debut in Major League Pickleball (MLP) Australia, marking a significant milestone in the sport's global expansion. In an engaging interview on The Pickle Pulse podcast, Yates shares his insights on the upcoming tournament, his preparations, and the evolving landscape of professional pickleball.

The conversation covers a wide range of topics, from Yates' involvement in developing indoor pickleball facilities to his rigorous training regimen for MLP Australia. He discusses the potential for more indoor professional tournaments and the exciting venues awaiting him in Australia and Vietnam.

Yates offers valuable perspectives on the MLP Australia draft strategy, the growth of pickleball in India, and the recent changes in the US professional rankings. He provides thoughtful analysis on the dominance of Anna Leigh Waters in the women's game and the challenges facing other top female players.

Throughout the interview, Yates' enthusiasm for the sport's global growth is evident. He marvels at the rapid evolution of professional pickleball, citing the increasing number of high-level players and the expanding international presence in tournaments.

As pickleball continues to gain popularity worldwide, Yates stands at the forefront of its expansion. His participation in MLP Australia not only showcases his skills on an international stage but also contributes to the sport's development across the Asia-Pacific region. With his unique insights and continued innovation in gameplay, Yates remains a central figure in shaping the future of professional pickleball.

Time Code List

1. 00:00 Intro
2. 00:55 Follow up on what Kyle has been up to with his Pickler facilities.
3. 03:29 Thoughts on the Pro’s moving indoors for tournaments
4. 05:21 Kyles training for MLP Australia
5. 08:03 Wearing purple for a reason
6. 08:45 Why did you choose to play MLP Australia
7. 10:31 DUPR’s are really low for Kyle’s opponents
8. 13:02 The land of creepy things that can kill you? Spiders or snakes? Sharks or Crocs
9. 15:03 diving in Australia
10. 15:35 What’s the most exciting Venue to play at MLP Australia
11. 17:07 “The Kyle Yates” Kyles shot and new shots that he’s working on
12. 18:54 Draft strategy, taking Ladies vs. men
13. 25:45 India’s top pickleball players, and pickleball India
14. 27:37 Growing Pickleball worldwide, and The new #1 team in US Pro Pickleball
15. 30:45 Anna Leigh dominates and the ladies trying to catch up.
16. 34:19 The current scatter of pro pickleball and 100+ qualifiers in men’s singles
17. 36:45 How can we keep up with the GOAT Kyle Yates?

The Pickleball Jazz: Kyle Yates Down Under

Listen up, cats and kittens, gather 'round for a tale,

Of a pickleball wizard named Kyle Yates, without fail.

He's heading Down Under for MLP Australia,

To shake up the scene with skills that'll regale ya.

On the Pickle Pulse Podcast, he laid down the beat,

Talking 'bout his plans to bring the heat.

With the Brisbane Breakers, he'll don purple with pride,

Ready to take the court and let his talent ride.

Now, Yates ain't scared of no spiders or snakes,

He's faced down crocs, for goodness sakes!

But when it comes to diving in Australia's blue,

He's excited to explore reefs, old and new.

From indoor facilities to outdoor play,

Kyle's spreading pickleball love every which way.

Growing the sport worldwide, that's his game,

Bringing pickle fever and well-deserved fame.

He's training hard, multiple sessions a day,

Preparing new shots that'll make opponents pay.

The Kyle Yates special? That's just the start,

He's got tricks up his sleeve to set him apart.

In India and Asia, the sport's on the rise,

Kyle's eyes are open wide, no surprise.

He sees the potential, the talent untapped,

In a global expansion that's got him rapt.

From draft strategies to rankings shaken,

Kyle's got opinions, and he ain't fakin'.

He breaks it all down with a jazzy flair,

Sharing insights that are beyond compare.

So when MLP Australia hits the scene,

Keep your eyes on Yates, he's lean and mean.

With paddle in hand and skills so slick,

He'll show the world pickleball's the pick.

From the Pickle Pulse to the Brisbane court,

Kyle Yates is elevating this sport.

So snap your fingers and tap your feet,

To the pickleball jazz that can't be beat!