APP Detroit Open Pickleball Tournament: The Association of Pickleball Players (APP) announced that Detroit will host a major pickleball event in 2026. The APP Detroit Open will take place at the Suburban Collection Showplace in Novi from August 19 to 23. The tournament is expected to draw more than 1,000 amateur and professional players.
A Growing National Tour
The APP, founded in 2019, runs the first professional and amateur pickleball tour officially recognized by USA Pickleball. The Detroit event will be part of the APP’s eighth season and is one of many tournaments being added across the country.
Local Leaders Welcome the Event
Marty Dobek, executive director of the Detroit Sports Commission, said, “We have strategically targeted pickleball as a premier event opportunity for the Detroit market. The 2025 APP Detroit Open is the perfect opportunity to bring this fast-growing sport to our region, help grow our sports tourism calendar, and create positive economic impact for Metro Detroit.”
APP Founder Ken Herrmann added, “Another exciting chapter of momentum and growth is upon us, as we launch season eight of the APP. Our event portfolio has expanded far beyond just APP Tour events, and we truly have something for everyone. Our tournament standards continue to be second-to-none, catered towards all players regardless of age, skill, or status. We stay committed to being a resource for pickleball players worldwide and giving our pro players a global stage to shine and share their journeys. We can’t wait to see what 2026 has in store for APP pickleball.”
Oakland County Executive David Coulter also expressed excitement, saying, “We’re crazy for pickleball in Oakland County. Our courts are multiplying, our leagues are filling up, and people of all ages have a serious case of pickleball fever. So, we welcome the 2026 Association of Pickleball Players Detroit Open to the Suburban Showplace in Novi with open arms. Paddles Up!”
Why It Matters
The 2026 APP Detroit Open is expected to boost local sports tourism and highlight Metro Detroit as a destination for major events. It will also provide opportunities for both local and visiting players to compete, while continuing to fuel the growth of pickleball across all age groups.
News in Brief: APP Detroit Open Pickleball Tournament
Detroit will host the 2026 APP Detroit Open at the Suburban Collection Showplace in Novi from August 19 to 23. The event will feature more than 1,000 amateur and professional pickleball players. Local leaders say the tournament will grow sports tourism and spotlight the sport’s rapid rise.
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