Major League Pickleball (MLP presented by DoorDash) announced on Friday the formation of the expansion Palm Beach Royals, who will begin play in 2026.

The team was purchased at a record-high valuation by Zach Hunter and Taylor Meyer of Hyperspace Ventures.

“The addition of an expansion franchise at the highest team valuation in league history speaks loudly to what has been - and is continuing to be - built by MLP and the PPA Tour in just a few years,” said Samin Odhwani, UPA Chief Strategy Officer. “We greatly look forward to the contributions that Zach, Taylor, and their ownership group can bring to MLP.”

Former UNC tennis players and accomplished tech entrepreneurs, Hunter and Meyer bring a unique combination of competitive sports experience, a focus on technology, and operational expertise to the organization. Additional celebrity, professional athlete, and business tycoon investors are expected to be announced shortly.

League operations around the Royals, including the player acquisition process, will be announced during the upcoming off-season.

The Toray MLP Playoffs - San Diego will be held at Barnes Tennis Center, Aug. 15- 17, and be followed by the DoorDash MLP Finals - New York City, powered by Toray at CityPickle at Wollman Rink in iconic Central Park, Aug. 22-24.

The playoffs follow the league’s 10-event 2025 regular season and will showcase the top 10 Premier Level teams by regular season standings points and all six Challenger Level teams competing at their respective level.