Pickleball app launches with AI coach

PlayerU Software Solutions LLC, a technology firm based in Coral Gables, released a mobile application on November 4, 2026. The app, branded as PlayerU.ai, is available for free download on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. It is designed to teach users how to play pickleball, which the company identifies as the fastest-growing sport in the United States.

The platform guides users from beginner to advanced proficiency through guided video lessons. These lessons feature Kyle Yates, a seven-time US Open Champion and member of the Hall of Fame. Rene Prats, co-founder of PlayerU, stated that having Yates serve as a video coach makes the app a key element for increasing participation in the sport.

Prats noted that many people are interested in pickleball but lack knowledge on where to begin. He said the instructional videos in the app solve that problem. Prats also serves as co-founder of Diadem Pickleball Complexes, a facility that operates some of the sport's leading indoor venues.

Diadem Pickleball Complexes built the first indoor pickleball facility in Florida. The company is on pace to add another 13 facilities in the state. Prats has 40 years of business experience in the hospitality industry. He held executive roles at Tony Roma’s, Luther’s BBQ, and Papa Johns Pizza before entering the pickleball sector.

In early 2026, the Court Reserve World Pickleball Conference honored Prats with the DUPR 2026 Golden Pickle Business Award. He is described as one of pickleball’s leading advocates.

Edwin Rivera, the other co-founder of PlayerU, described the growth of the sport as off the charts. Rivera is a technology entrepreneur who specializes in helping startups commercialize innovations. He said the app was built for the millions of people who watch pickleball from the sidelines and are curious about the game but do not know how to start.

Rivera cited specific growth figures, stating that 4.5 million new players pick up a paddle every year. The initial launch of the PlayerU app includes a feature called PlayerULogic. This is a pickleball-specific artificial intelligence trained on the game’s rules, strategies, and skills progressions.

PlayerULogic answers players’ questions in real time. The app combines this AI capability with the guided video instructions for players at all levels. The company aims to serve the audience of interested observers who are hesitant to join the game.

For more information about the app, the company lists Rivera as the contact. His phone number is 786-355-9543.