Jay Devilliers Announces Comeback to APP Tour in September 2026
Jay devilliers, widely recognized in the pickleball community as the 'flying frenchman,' has officially declared his return to the association of pickleball pla
Jay Devilliers, widely recognized in the pickleball community as the 'Flying Frenchman,' has officially declared his return to the Association of Pickleball Players (APP) Tour, set to take effect in September 2026. This announcement marks a significant shift for the seasoned player, who has spent the majority of the past five years competing primarily within the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) framework. In a heartfelt message shared with his fans, Devilliers expressed his enthusiasm about rejoining the APP, stating, 'Back where it all started with my boy Patrick Smith! I'm excited to be returning to the APP Tour this September. 2026, you'd better be ready.' His return is highly anticipated, as he is a former world No. 1 on the APP Tour and the reigning champion of the 2026 US Open Mixed Doubles, where he partnered with the talented Anna Leigh Waters. Devilliers' decision to re-enter the APP comes at a time when the professional pickleball landscape is experiencing notable changes, particularly regarding player contracts and affiliations.
The professional pickleball scene is currently undergoing a transformation, with many players reassessing their commitments as contracts signed during the intense 2023 bidding wars between the PPA and Major League Pickleball (MLP) are nearing their expiration. The recent merger of the PPA and MLP into the United Pickleball Association (UPA) has prompted a shift in the compensation structure, moving towards a model that emphasizes prize money and performance incentives. This change has led several players to contemplate their future in the sport. For instance, Vivian Glozman recently shared her relief after ending her contract with the UPA, citing feelings of burnout from the relentless schedule of weekly tournaments and repetitive matchups. While Devilliers' return to the APP does not appear to be a critique of the PPA, MLP, or UPA, it reflects the evolving dynamics within the sport and the various factors influencing players' decisions.
