US Open Pickleball Extravaganza: The US Open Pickleball Championship has returned to East Naples Community Park, bringing thousands of players and spectators to Collier County for a weeklong celebration of the sport. With over 3,500 competitors from all 50 states and 40 countries, the 2025 edition promises to be the biggest yet.
A Star-Studded Kickoff
The championship begins Saturday with the US Open Junior Championship at 9 a.m. Among the highlights is tennis legend Andre Agassi’s professional debut in the tournament. He could face top pro Megan Fudge in the doubles finals.
“He’s going to have an amazing backhand, I’m sure, just like he did in tennis. And he’s going to be extremely competitive. I heard he hasn’t shied away from competition. So just the chance to compete against a champion of his sport and see how he takes a pickleball.” – (Fudge)
Community and Growth
Eva Welscher, the tournament’s honorary chairperson, said this year’s event has grown by 300 participants. An estimated 60,000 visitors will pass through the park during the week.
“We added about 300 participants to this year’s event. We have 50 states, and we have 40 countries that are all represented here. And this tournament is for the people. We’re gonna have 60,000 people pass through this event this year. We have 3,500 players.” – (Welscher)
The championship also highlights the sport’s inclusive nature.
“It’s a party. It is amateurs, professionals, and junior players across the board. Everybody from all ages is playing pickleball and having a great time meeting each other.” – (Fudge)
Family and Fun
For Fudge, the sport is personal.
“We all play. My kids play. My husband plays. We travel around the world playing pickleball and have an opportunity to help grow the sport.” – (Fudge)
The US Open Pickleball Championship is free to the public and runs from Saturday to Saturday. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early for free play, as court space is limited.
News in Brief: US Open Pickleball Extravaganza
The US Open Pickleball Championship kicks off in East Naples, Florida, with over 3,500 players from around the world. The weeklong event features pro, amateur, and junior divisions and includes Andre Agassi’s pro pickleball participation. The tournament is expected to draw 60,000 visitors to East Naples Community Park.
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