On November 12, 2023, a historic ripple began in the world of sports — not in a packed stadium in New York, not under the lights of Roland Garros or the roar of Wimbledon — but on the sun-drenched courts of Lima, Peru.
This was the launch of the Pickleball World Cup: Special Edition, the sport’s first true international team competition — the realization of a bold vision conceived by Peruvian siblings Hercilio and Miranda Cabieses, founders of the Cabieses Foundation, and brought to life by the passion of 14 nations.
What began as an ambitious idea quickly transformed into something far greater: a global proving ground for skill, heart, and purpose.
A Mission Rooted in Purpose
For Hercilio and Miranda, pickleball wasn’t just a sport — it was a tool for transformation. As the article from Gulf Coast News Now reveals, Miranda Cabieses is a former Division I tennis player and rising pickleball professional with a passion for education and youth development. Hercilio, also played at the collegiate level, equally committed, brought business acumen and philanthropic purpose to the mission.
Together, through the Cabieses Foundation, they launched the Pickleball World Cup with one goal in mind:
“To empower children and give them an opportunity to find purpose through inclusivity — especially for individuals with disabilities, underprivileged youth, and local communities — all through the power of pickleball.”
The Pickleball World Cup Special Edition was not created by chance — it was crafted with heart, strategy, and soul.
14 Nations, 1 Shared Dream
Fourteen delegations were invited to compete, each bringing a unique culture and playing style to the Peruvian courts. They were split into three competitive groups:
Group A
- Puerto Rico
- Panama
- Ecuador
- USA
- Costa Rica
Group B
- Chile
- Bolivia
- Peru
- Argentina
- Colombia
Group C
- Dominican Republic
- Guatemala
- Venezuela
- Canada
From opening day, it was clear: this wasn’t a friendly showcase — it was an elite competition. Countries brought their best talent, delivering matches filled with tactics, tension, and unity. Teams forged bonds that transcended borders.
A Tournament of Heart
As the competition advanced, the matches grew more intense. Some nations rose on the wings of experience, while others surprised the world with raw passion and chemistry.
The knockout rounds saw unforgettable clashes:
- Peru vs. Puerto Rico electrified local crowds.
- Chile vs. Guatemala went down to the wire.
In the grand finale, host nation Peru and dark horse Guatemala took center court. With precision and pride, Team Peru emerged victorious, lifting the first-ever Pickleball World Cup trophy before their home fans in Lima.
Final Standings
- 🥇 1st – Peru
Home soil, home glory. Their victory symbolized more than just athletic dominance — it reflected the soul of the nation and the success of the World Cup vision. - 🥈 2nd – Guatemala
A team full of heart, charisma, and cohesion. Their tactical brilliance made them fan favorites and finalists. - 🥉 3rd – Puerto Rico
After a riveting showdown with the Dominican Republic, they secured bronze and made a powerful statement about their place in global pickleball.
Final Thoughts
From a bold idea launched on the courts of Lima in 2023, the Pickleball World Cup has grown into the sport’s most prestigious international stage. What began with 14 nations and a vision for inclusion has evolved into a global movement — with dozens of countries now vying for glory, unity, and national pride. And now, the story continues.
Later this year, starting October 2, the world will turn its eyes to The Fort in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, as the 2025 Pickleball World Cup marks a new chapter in history. Bigger, faster, and more competitive than ever, this tournament will not only crown a champion — it will shape the future of international pickleball.