A historic moment for Pickleball in Austria: The Pickleball Federation Austria (PFA) was invited to the Austrian Parliament by Agnes Sirkka-Prammer, Chair of the National Council’s Sports Committee. European Champion Stefan Urban was honored on behalf of the four-member men’s team – Stephen Preissler, Prycen Haas and Thomas Knapp – which made Pickleball history by winning the Men’s Doubles title at the 2025 European Championships in Rome. Additional national team players and officials were also present in Parliament: Jasmin Primus, Denise Hübsch, Michael Wurdits, Helmut Hübsch and Liz Waere, as well as PFA President Peter Robic and PFA Media Officer Alex Rieck. For the athletes, the reception in Parliament was a powerful sign of recognition. Being able to take photos and celebrate their achievements in the esteemed National Council Chamber, where government and elected representatives normally sit, was an experience they will never forget.

A milestone for Austrian Pickleball

With the sensational victory in the Men’s Doubles European Championship, Austria achieved a milestone that brought the young sport significant international visibility for the very first time.

Click here for the full story of this historic European Championship victory

Stefan Urban accepted the recognition from Agnes Sirkka-Prammer on behalf of his teammates:

• Prycen Haas & Stephen Preissler – the duo that secured the gold medal in the final
• Thomas Knapp – also a key member of the successful European Championship squad

Recognition from the political sphere

In her remarks, Agnes Sirkka-Prammer emphasized:

“The European Championship title demonstrates impressively how much potential Pickleball has in Austria. Even more remarkable is that this success was achieved without public funding and through the extraordinary personal commitment of the athletes. This dedication deserves the highest recognition.”

The PFA used the opportunity to highlight what the sport has already achieved — and what is now needed for Pickleball to continue growing in Austria.

Pickleball needs infrastructure — now

In 2025, important steps were taken in Austria:

• Two indoor facilities were opened
• The first public Pickleball courts in Vienna’s Donaupark were created on the initiative of the PFA

But this is not enough to keep pace with the sport’s dynamic development.
For Pickleball to truly break through in Austria, the following are essential:

1. More public and easily accessible courts

Free-to-use courts are necessary for the sport to expand nationwide.

2. Year-round infrastructure

Indoor courts in all federal states are crucial for training and athlete development. A combination of indoor and outdoor playing opportunities shall be established.

3. Financial support for athletes

At present, athletes cover nearly all expenses themselves — from travel to tournament entry fees.

4. Structural recognition as a sport eligible for public funding

This is needed to ensure that clubs, talent development programs and events can operate sustainably.

An important signal — and a mandate for the future

The reception in Parliament was a strong statement:
Pickleball is being recognized.
At the same time, it is clear that political support is needed to establish this young sport sustainably in Austria.

The PFA extends sincere thanks to Agnes Sirkka-Prammer for the invitation, and to Nikolaus Ganahl and Sonia Martinelli for their support on site and their appreciative words.

Austria has proven what is possible

The European Championship title was a historic success.
The reception in Parliament marks another step on the path forward.

And one thing is certain:

Pickleball in Austria is only just beginning.