The 2025 Pickleball Summer Classic will take place in Kennewick, Washington, from June 19 to 22. Over 400 players from across the United States will compete in the four-day event, the largest pickleball tournament in the state, held on permanent pickleball courts. It’s expected to boost the local economy.
This is the third year of the tournament, and it continues to grow. Players will take part in various competitions, including age-group doubles and open singles matches played under the lights. The event also offers a total prize pool of $15,000.
Players Arrive from Across the Country
Natalie Clifton, Sports Development Manager for Visit Tri-Cities, confirmed the wide range of participants.
“There are over 400 pickleball players registered. They’re coming from all over the country,” -(Natalie Clifton)
Many professional players will attend, making the competition tough and exciting. Steve Sullivan, a gold medalist who played last year, praised the level of skill seen in the Tri-Cities.
“The level of competition is as good as anywhere we’ve ever been. We’ve played all over the world, both internationally and domestically. There’s some great talent here in the Tri-Cities, the level of competition here itself, the level itself, they’re amazing.” -(Steve Sullivan)
Although he won’t play this year due to his son’s wedding, Sullivan reflected on his strategy for success in doubles.
When asked about his game plan, he joked, “Keep my wife happy.”
A Boost for the Community
Besides sports, the event brings major benefits to the area. Visit Tri-Cities estimates that about $200,000 will be added to the local economy. That money comes from players and fans staying in hotels, eating at restaurants, and shopping locally.
“All those participants from around the nation and around the Pacific Northwest, it’s just going to be a great event for our community, raise a bunch of money and just help boost our economy.”-(Natalie Clifton)
The pickleball tournament will start on Thursday, June 19, at 8 a.m. Visitors can enjoy more than just matches. There will be food vendors and live music to entertain the crowds.
A Sport on the Rise
As pickleball becomes more popular nationwide, events like this highlight its growing role in sports. The Tri-Cities is quickly becoming a key spot for major competitions. Organizers expect the tournament to keep growing in size and impact each year.
News in Brief: 2025 Pickleball Summer Classic
The 2025 Pickleball Summer Classic will take place in Kennewick from June 19–22, with over 400 players. It offers $15,000 in prize money and is expected to bring $200,000 in local economic impact. Players and fans will enjoy food, music, and top-level matches on permanent courts.