Australian Masters Cup Finals Showdown: The Australian Masters Cup Finals wrapped up at the Pimpama Sports Hub over the weekend, bringing together the top pickleball players aged 50+, 60+, and 70+ from across the country. Teams from New South Wales, Queensland, Victoria, Tasmania/ACT, and WA/SA/NT competed for national glory in a two-day event that ended with New South Wales and Queensland facing off in all three finals.
Road to the Finals
The tournament began months earlier with more than 1,200 players competing in local leagues around Australia. Winners advanced to regional qualifiers in June and state qualifiers in August, earning their chance to represent their state at the national stage.
At Pimpama, each state was represented by eight players—four men and four women—in each age division. Teams battled in men’s doubles, women’s doubles, and mixed doubles, with every win earning one point. A “Master Breaker” tie-breaker decided matches locked at 4-4.
Competition Heats Up
By the close of Saturday’s four rounds, all teams were pushing hard for spots in the finals. Partnerships, some formed for the first time, quickly found rhythm as strategies developed. The atmosphere was electric, with courtside cheers of “c’mon” and “let’s go” echoing throughout the venue.
On Sunday morning, results confirmed the leaders: New South Wales 70+, Queensland 60+, and New South Wales 50+ all advanced directly into the finals. The semi-finals produced tense battles, setting up a dramatic showdown between New South Wales and Queensland across all three divisions.
Championship Matches
The finals were fiercely contested, with state pride driving every rally. Matches were close across all age groups, but by late Sunday afternoon, the national champions were decided and celebrated as the first-ever Australian Masters Cup winners.
Looking Ahead
Organizers highlighted the significance of the competition for both new and seasoned players. For some, it was their first taste of tournament play, while others saw it as another milestone in their pickleball journey.
Event organizer Brad Kluss reflected on the tournament, saying:
“As the organiser of the event, I am incredibly proud of the event we have delivered for you all, and I can’t wait to see all your faces, plus many more in 2026.”
The success of this year’s event means the Australian Masters Cup will return in 2026, with promises of an even bigger competition. Players are encouraged to rally behind their local clubs to prepare for the next edition.
News in Brief: Australian Masters Cup Finals Showdown
The Australian Masters Cup Finals took place at Pimpama Sports Hub, with teams from across Australia competing in 50+, 60+, and 70+ age groups. New South Wales and Queensland faced off in all finals, and champions were crowned after two days of play. Organizers confirmed the event will return in 2026.
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