The 2024 Biofreeze USA Pickleball National Championships delivered record-breaking numbers, bringing an estimated $3.6 million economic boost to Mesa, Arizona, during its nine-day run from November 9–17 at the Arizona Athletic Grounds. The event showed over 2,600 athletes from 47 states and 13 countries, alongside 10,000 enthusiastic spectators.
This year marked a significant milestone as USA Pickleball independently managed and hosted the Nationals for the first time. The competition featured 3,835 matches across 41 courts, totaling 111 hours of play. Participants ranged in age from as young as seven to an inspiring 94-year-old.
“This year’s Nationals far exceeded expectations with our athletes, the competition, partners and positive impact to the Mesa community. We couldn’t imagine a better way to showcase the best in the sport than by independently managing and hosting nationals for the first time as the USA Pickleball team. We’re proud of its success and the experience we were able to offer our athletes. This wouldn’t have been possible without the support of our partners, members, referees and dedicated volunteers.” – (Mike Nealy, ceo of USA Pickleball)
A World-Class Event
Now in its 16th year, the USA Pickleball Nationals has grown into one of the largest and most prestigious tournaments in the sport. Athletes traveled from across the United States and around the world to compete at Arizona Athletic Grounds, one of the premier venues for pickleball events.
The championship attracted players of all ages and skill levels, creating a dynamic and inclusive atmosphere. From youth competitors showing early promise to seasoned veterans with decades of experience, the event celebrated the diversity and growing appeal of pickleball.
Spectators were treated to exciting matches and intense competition as players battled for titles across various divisions. The sheer scale of the event, with nearly 4,000 matches played, highlighted the growth of the sport.
Supporting the Community
In addition to the thrilling competition, USA Pickleball demonstrated its commitment to community outreach. USA Pickleball Serves hosted two special clinics during the tournament to engage local groups.
Veterans were introduced to the game through a Learn-to-Play clinic, while youth from A New Leaf, a community-focused non-profit organization, had the opportunity to learn pickleball skills firsthand.
During a special ceremony on November 13, USA Pickleball gifted A New Leaf with a pickleball court and an equipment donation from Franklin, including essential gear bundles to continue fostering the sport. The initiative reflected the growing effort to make pickleball accessible to diverse groups and spread its benefits to underserved communities.
Impact on Mesa and the Sport
The estimated $3.6 million in economic impact provided a significant boost to the Mesa community. Local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and shops, benefitted from the influx of athletes, fans, and event staff throughout the nine-day championship.
The success of this year’s Nationals underscores pickleball’s increasing popularity in the United States and abroad. The sport has experienced a rise in participation, with millions now playing recreationally and competitively.
For USA Pickleball, hosting the Nationals independently was an important step in growing the sport and elevating its remarkable event. The experience offered valuable insights that will help shape future tournaments and ensure even greater success in the years to come.
Looking Ahead
The 2024 Biofreeze USA Pickleball National Championships not only celebrated athletic excellence but also highlighted the sport’s power to bring people together. With a focus on community engagement, competition, and innovation, USA Pickleball set a high bar for future events.
The enthusiasm surrounding this year’s Nationals promises continued growth for pickleball at every level. Whether through grassroots clinics, expanded tournaments, or increased participation, the sport is positioned to thrive well into the future.
As USA Pickleball continues to build on this success, players and fans can look forward to even more opportunities to be part of the game’s exciting evolution.
News in Brief: 2024 Biofreeze USA Pickleball National Championships
The 2024 Biofreeze USA Pickleball National Championships, held from November 9–17 in Mesa, Arizona, brought a record $3.6 million economic boost. Featuring over 2,600 athletes from 47 states and 13 countries, the event spanned 3,835 matches across 41 courts.
USA Pickleball independently hosted the nine-day tournament, drawing 10,000 fans and promoting community outreach with clinics for veterans and youth. The Nationals’ success highlights pickleball’s rapid growth, strengthening its impact on local communities and positioning it as a global sporting phenomenon.
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