Beer City Open ESPN coverage 2025: The 2025 Beer City Open has returned to Belknap Park in Grand Rapids, Michigan, drawing national attention as ESPN covers the event for the first time. About 1,300 pickleball teams from across the U.S. are competing for a prize pool of $250,000.
The tournament began earlier this week and runs through the weekend. Professional and amateur players filled the courts on Wednesday, showcasing the sport’s fast-paced action and growing popularity.
Organizers say this is the biggest year yet for the tournament.
Pickleball Takes Center Stage in West Michigan
The Beer City Open has grown into one of the most important events in pickleball. Andrea Koop, the founder of the tournament, said,
“So we couldn’t be more thrilled with how much it’s grown. We never imagined, our wildest dreams that it would become what it is today.”
This year’s event marks the third visit for professional player Wyatt Stone of the Texas Ranchers.
“I’ve been playing pro for about four years, but I’ve been playing pickleball since I was 13. This is like my third time coming back to Beer City. It always has beautiful courts.”(Wyatt Stone )
ESPN Joins the Action
One of the biggest surprises for organizers was ESPN agreeing to cover the tournament.
“I’d be like, that’s insane. Like, what, pickleball and Grand Rapids, and I had a small part to do with it. It’s crazy. We’ve been trying for a few years to get them to come out or do anything, and then I think it just the stars align. They’re doing their 50 on 50 Sports.”(Andrea Koop)
ESPN will be at the venue starting Thursday. Admission is $20 on Thursday and Friday, and $30 during the weekend.
Fast Action, Big Crowds
Fans at the park are impressed by the energy and skill of the players.
“It’s just a blast every time you come out here and watch, like, how fast it is with all the pros. And like, you think maybe pickleball is a slow sport. If you come out you’ll see this is like, a very, very pro sport, very fast, just like kind of tennis or anything,” (fan shared).
The event has become a major attraction for both competitors and the local community.
News in Brief: Beer City Open ESPN Coverage 2025
The 2025 Beer City Open in Grand Rapids has drawn 1,300 teams and ESPN coverage. Held at Belknap Park, the tournament offers $250,000 in prizes. Organizers are thrilled with its growth. Fans and players alike are enjoying the fast action, with ESPN coverage beginning Thursday.
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