In today’s fast-moving world of sports and marketing, brands are constantly looking for ways to connect with fans. Some of the biggest names in the game—like Dr Pepper with college football or PepsiCo with the NFL—have already built strong ties with sports fans. Now, another sport is stepping into the spotlight. Major League Pickleball (MLP), a co-ed pro team league, just announced a major sponsorship deal with DoorDash.

This new partnership means that MLP will now officially be called ‘MLP presented by DoorDash’. It’s a multi-year agreement that marks the biggest sponsorship deal in the league’s history. The announcement came through a fun social media campaign featuring the popular YouTube group, Dude Perfect. They appeared alongside MLP stars Anna Bright and Tyson McGuffin to share the news.

The three-year deal, which runs through 2027, is valued at over seven figures annually, according to Sports Business Journal. It also brings a complete league rebrand. MLP’s new logo will now include the DoorDash name. The DoorDash brand will appear on every team’s uniform and behind the baselines at all events. Margaritaville, the previous title sponsor, is officially replaced.

Why DoorDash’s Pickleball Deal Is a Big Win for Fans—and the Sport?

DoorDash has now joined the NBA, WNBA, and MLS as major league partners. By aligning with MLP, DoorDash adds one of the fastest-growing sports in America to its portfolio. The company also holds team-specific deals, including one with Los Angeles FC. But the MLP deal marks a fresh move into a sport building a loyal and growing fanbase.

That growth is backed by numbers. The 2025 SFIA Topline Participation Report says 19.8 million Americans played pickleball in 2024. That’s a 45.8% increase from the previous year. And globally, pickleball’s market is booming—set to jump from $1.9 billion in 2023 to $7.9 billion by 2033.

DoorDash sees pickleball as a gateway to new users. “We’re beyond excited to be part of the incredible momentum around pickleball as the official title sponsor of MLP,” said Renaldo Chapman, Vice President of Brand & Creative at DoorDash. His team includes experienced sports marketers like Emery Barnes. He further added, “MLP presented by DoorDash is all about bringing fans even closer to the game… We’ll deliver exclusive experiences, unique perks, and unforgettable moments that celebrate the sport’s rapid rise and strong sense of community.”

As part of the strategy, DoorDash wants to make its name a key part of the pickleball experience. The goal is not just visibility but loyalty, turning fans into regular DoorDash users.

Key Perks Being Offered by DoorDash to MLP Fans

To bring this to life, they’ve rolled out a number of activations. The Free Pickles Promo gave DashPass members a free jar of pickles with grocery orders when they used the code PICKLE. This offer ran until April 15, 2025.

At events, DashPass members will now enjoy perks like VIP seat upgrades and DoorDash gift cards. These can be used to order food on-site during matches. It’s all part of making the live experience better and more convenient.

DoorDash will also introduce “Drop-Off Zones” at all MLP events. These branded spots allow fans to collect food they ordered through the app—no waiting, no hassle.

And the company is going big with event branding, too. DoorDash now holds naming rights for the 2025 MLP Finals NYC in Central Park. Last year’s NYC event broke ticket revenue records and drew nearly 5,500 fans. With that kind of turnout, the 2025 edition is expected to be even bigger.

This sponsorship pushes MLP into a new phase of growth. With DoorDash on board, the league has a partner that brings marketing power, resources, and fan-focused ideas.