APP Chicago Title Race: Dorothy famously said, “There’s no place like home,” for pickleball enthusiasts, Chicago is about to prove her right. This Labor Day weekend, the APP Tour—the premier pro and amateur pickleball tour—returns to its Chicago roots for the 2024 Zimmer Biomet APP Chicago Open. With five action-packed days of play, this year’s event is the largest ever, showing a mix of amateurs, elite pros, and special divisions, including the AARP Champions (50+) and the Humana Cup.
The Stage is Set
The tournament, held at Danny Cunniff Park in Highland Park, IL, will feature top-tier competition with medals and prize money on the line. The event also serves as a USA Pickleball Golden Ticket qualifier for 2025, giving gold medalists a direct path to the USAP National Championships next year. The APP is also making an impact off the court by supporting local charities, including the Misericordia Foundation and the 100 Club of Chicago.
Top APP Tittle Contenders to Watch
Megan Fudge, fresh off two gold medals in Newport Beach, is set to dominate as the top seed in women’s singles. She will also compete in women’s doubles with Jill Braverman and mixed doubles with Jack Munro.
Max Manthou, coming off impressive performances at the OWL APP Newport Beach Open and the English Open, returns as the No. 6 seed in men’s doubles alongside Erik Lange.
Yana Newell, who won gold in women’s doubles with Emily Cederquist at Newport Beach, aims to defend their title as the No. 5 seeds in Chicago.
Jack Munro, a standout performer in mixed doubles and men’s doubles, will pair with Megan Fudge and Rob Nunnery, respectively.
Simone Jardim, the APP Tour’s all-time gold medal leader, will be a key player in women’s doubles with Allison Harris, and in mixed doubles with Jack Foster.
Chris Haworth, a dominant force in men’s singles, returns as the top seed with a focus on adding another gold to his collection.
Susannah Barr, with six APP Tour medals this year, looks to improve upon her performance from the 2023 APP Chicago Open.
Leading all men’s pros with ten medals in 2024, Will Howells will compete in mixed and men’s doubles.
Rob Nunnery, the top seed in men’s pro doubles, aims for redemption after a silver finish in 2023.
News in Brief: APP Chicago Title Race
The 2024 Zimmer Biomet APP Chicago Open is set to be the largest edition yet, featuring top pickleball players from around the world. Held at Danny Cunniff Park, the tournament includes five days of intense competition with medals and prize money at stake.
Highlights include top players like Megan Fudge, Max Manthou, and Simone Jardim. The event also supports local charities and serves as a USA Pickleball Golden Ticket qualifier for the 2025 championships. Coverage is available on APPTV and CBS Sports Network.
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