Top Pro Pickleball Tournaments: Pickleball, one of the fastest-growing sports in the world, captivates audiences with its thrilling rallies and unique blend of tennis, badminton, and table tennis. As the sport’s popularity surges, several elite tournaments are emerging as must-watch events for pickleball players. Here’s a look at the top professional pickleball tournaments to keep on the radar in 2024.
1. The Carvana Professional Pickleball Association Tour
The Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) Tour stands as the premier series of pickleball tournaments, drawing the best players from around the globe. With over 25 events annually, the PPA Tour features a mix of singles and doubles competitions for men and women.
These tournaments not only offer high-stakes prize money but also present an opportunity for players to earn crucial ranking points, making them a favorite among professionals and fans.
Among the highly anticipated events in the 2024 season are:
PPA Masters
Renowned as one of the most prestigious pickleball events, the PPA Masters sees top players competing for a significant prize purse. This tournament shows world-class talent, with matches that promise to deliver nail-biting excitement.
PPA Championships
An annual highlight, the PPA Championships is one of the largest events on the tour, featuring competitive categories, including men’s and women’s singles and doubles, as well as mixed doubles.
Every tournament on the PPA Tour is broadcast live, allowing fans worldwide to catch the action as it starts. Expect thrilling matches, especially during the later rounds when top-seeded players go head-to-head.
2. Major League Pickleball
Major League Pickleball (MLP) introduces a team-based format to the sport, elevating the excitement level to new heights. Teams of four—two men and two women—compete in a series of mixed doubles, men’s doubles, women’s doubles, and singles matches.
This unique structure, coupled with high-profile team owners and star athletes, makes MLP events dynamic and highly entertaining.
Highlighted Events for 2024
MLP Kansas City
One of the marquee stops on the MLP calendar, this event attracts top teams and is known for its intense, high-energy matches. The mix of team play adds strategy that keeps fans on the edge of their seats.
MLP Las Vegas
Famed for its vibrant atmosphere, MLP Las Vegas offers fierce competition alongside fan-friendly events. The glitzy setting enhances the excitement, making it a favorite among fans.
The emphasis on team play, combined with MLP’s fast-paced format, ensures that every match is a must-watch.
3. USA Pickleball National Championships
As one of the oldest and most prestigious tournaments in pickleball, the USA Pickleball National Championships are essential viewing for any sport fan. Hosted annually at the renowned Indian Wells Tennis Garden in California, this event gathers top talent from the United States and beyond.
In 2024, the Nationals are poised to feature even more competition as pickleball’s popularity continues to soar. Players will compete across various divisions, including professional, amateur, and senior categories, showing a wide range of talent.
Highlights Include
Pro Men’s and Women’s Singles Finals
These matches are a show of incredible athleticism, featuring intense rallies and sharp net play. The singles finals draw huge crowds, as fans eagerly watch top pros battle for the coveted championship title.
Mixed Doubles Finals
One of the most thrilling divisions, mixed doubles matches often feature dynamic teamwork and electrifying exchanges.
With thousands of participants and spectators, the USA Pickleball Nationals is not just a tournament but a celebration of the sport. The event is broadcast live, providing ample opportunities for fans to engage with their favorite players.
4. APP Tour
The Association of Pickleball Professionals (APP) Tour is another major professional series, offering players of all levels a chance to shine on a national stage. Featuring over 30 events, including professional, amateur, and senior divisions, the APP Tour represents the entire pickleball community.
Key events in the 2024 APP Tour include:
APP Mesa Open
Known for its fierce competition, the Mesa Open stands out as one of the tour’s premier events, attracting top-tier talent and offering substantial prize money.
APP New York City Open
Set in the heart of New York, this event gathers some of the best players in the sport for a week of competitive play. The urban backdrop adds a unique element, making it a fan favorite.
The APP Tour offers live streaming of its major events, allowing fans to follow the action from anywhere.
5. Pickleball Slam
The Pickleball Slam is an exhibition-style tournament featuring some of the biggest names in sports, often hailing from outside the pickleball world. Held in high-profile venues, these events blend entertainment with serious competition.
In 2023, tennis legends like Andre Agassi and John McEnroe participated, drawing significant media attention. While the Pickleball Slam may not carry the ranking points of traditional tournaments, its entertainment value and star power make it an event that pickleball fans will not want to miss in 2024.
6. The Tournament of Champions
The Tournament of Champions is a highlight on the pickleball calendar, offering high-level competition and a prestigious title. As one of the sport’s “majors,” it features top-ranked players competing for one of the largest prize purses in pickleball.
Held in Brigham City, Utah, this tournament distinguishes itself with a competitive field. Players must qualify, ensuring that only the best take the court.
The combination of intense and top-notch competition makes every match at the Tournament of Champions a must-watch.
7. International Pickleball Open
As the sport expands globally, international tournaments like the International Pickleball Open are becoming increasingly significant in determining the global rankings.
Held in various locations worldwide, this tournament features singles and doubles play, with divisions for professionals and amateurs.
In 2024, the International Pickleball Open is set to attract a strong international field, making it one of the top tournaments to watch for fans interested in the global growth of the sport.
News in Brief: Top Pro Pickleball Tournaments
Pickleball is rapidly growing in popularity, leading to a surge in professional tournaments. The 2024 season features several key events, including the Professional Pickleball Association Tour, Major League Pickleball, and the USA Pickleball National Championships.
These tournaments show top-tier talent and thrilling matches, making them must-watch occasions for fans of the sport. Additionally, the International Pickleball Open and the Tournament of Champions are highlights on the calendar, further emphasizing pickleball’s expanding global presence.
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