Pickleball has grown from a backyard pastime to a global phenomenon, and nowhere is that more evident than in the biggest pickleball tournaments held each year.
From massive professional events with huge prize pools to community-driven tournaments that bring together pickleball lovers, these competitions showcase the best players in the world—and give everyday players the chance to compete and experience the sport at a higher level.
In this guide, we’ll take you through:
- The top pickleball tournaments around the world
- What makes each event special
- How you can participate, whether as a player or spectator
- What gear you’ll need to perform your best on the court
If you love competitive pickleball, these are the events you need to know about!
1. The USA Pickleball National Championships
📍 Location: Indian Wells Tennis Garden, California
📅 When: November
The USA Pickleball National Championships is the biggest and most prestigious tournament in the sport. Hosted at the iconic Indian Wells Tennis Garden, this event attracts the best pickleball players from around the world, all competing for championship titles and cash prizes.
Why It’s a Must-Watch Tournament
- Massive Attendance: Over 2,000 players compete in different divisions, from amateur to professional.
- World-Class Venue: Indian Wells, known for hosting ATP tennis events, transforms into a pickleball paradise.
- Elite-Level Play: The best players in the world battle it out, making it an exciting tournament for spectators.
How to Participate
To qualify, players must compete in USA Pickleball-sanctioned events throughout the year and earn a spot based on performance.
If you’re planning to attend, make sure to stay comfortable with a moisture-wicking pickleball t-shirt from BigGreenPickle.com—you’ll need it in the California heat!
2. The PPA Tour Tournaments
📍 Location: Various locations across the U.S.
📅 When: Year-round
The Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) Tour is a series of high-level pickleball tournaments that bring together the best pro players in the world. With multiple stops throughout the year, it’s one of the most exciting tours in the sport.
What Makes the PPA Tour Special?
- Top Pro Talent: You’ll see the biggest names in pickleball, like Ben Johns, Anna Leigh Waters, and Tyson McGuffin.
- Major Prize Money: With significant cash payouts, the stakes are high.
- Live Coverage: Many events are broadcasted on ESPN, YouTube, and CBS Sports.
How to Get Involved
- If you’re an amateur, many PPA Tour events offer divisions for non-pros—so you can sign up and play!
- Spectators can attend in person or watch live online.
Pro Tip: Stay hydrated during long matches with a pickleball tumbler from BigGreenPickle.com—perfect for keeping your drinks cold while cheering on your favorite players!
3. The APP Tour (Association of Pickleball Professionals)
📍 Location: U.S. & International stops
📅 When: Year-round
The APP Tour is another major professional and amateur pickleball circuit, offering high-level competition and accessibility for everyday players.
Why It Stands Out
- It’s Open to Everyone: Unlike some pro tours, the APP Tour allows amateur players to compete in their own divisions.
- Global Reach: The APP Tour has international events, making it one of the most accessible pickleball tours worldwide.
- Pathway to Pro: Many rising stars in pickleball start on the APP Tour before moving up to the PPA.
Who Can Play?
Anyone! The APP Tour offers divisions for beginners, intermediate players, and pros, so there’s a level for everyone.
Gear Tip: If you’re playing a multi-day tournament, wearing a moisture-wicking pickleball t-shirt is a game-changer—it’ll keep you dry and comfortable on the court.
4. US Open Pickleball Championships
📍 Location: Naples, Florida
📅 When: April
The US Open Pickleball Championships is often called “The Biggest Pickleball Party in the World.” It combines elite-level competition with a fun, festival-like atmosphere, making it a favorite for players and fans alike.
What Makes It Special?
- More than 3,000 players compete, from beginners to pros.
- The Zing Zang Championship Court creates an electric atmosphere for final matches.
- Live music, food trucks, and social events make it more than just a tournament—it’s an experience.
How to Attend
- Players can register months in advance, but spots fill up fast.
- Spectators can enjoy the games, walk through vendor booths, and even try out the latest pickleball gear.
If you’re heading to Florida, don’t forget a breathable, lightweight pickleball t-shirt—it’s hot and humid, and you’ll want to stay cool!
5. Bainbridge Cup (The “Ryder Cup” of Pickleball)
📍 Location: Rotates worldwide
📅 When: Annually
The Bainbridge Cup is an international pickleball tournament where teams from North America and Europe face off in a Ryder Cup-style event.
Why It’s Unique
- Global Competition: It brings together top international players.
- Rotating Locations: Each year, a different country hosts the tournament.
- Team-Based Format: Players represent their country, making it one of the most exciting team competitions in pickleball.
How to Play
- You must qualify through national events in your region.
- If you’re a spectator, expect fast-paced, high-energy matches showcasing the world’s best talent.
Fun Fact: The Bainbridge Cup is named after Bainbridge Island, Washington, where pickleball was invented in 1965!
Final Thoughts
Pickleball’s biggest tournaments are where the sport’s best talent comes to shine. Whether you’re watching the pros battle it out in the USA Pickleball National Championships or enjoying the social atmosphere at the US Open Pickleball Championships, these events are a must for any pickleball fan.
And if you’re planning to compete—or just want to stay comfortable while playing—make sure you have the right gear. At BigGreenPickle.com, you’ll find:
- Moisture-wicking pickleball t-shirts to keep you cool during intense matches
- Pickleball tumblers to keep your drinks cold on and off the court
The only question is: Which tournament will you attend next?
