USA Pickleball has announced Phillip Phillips is to form part of the live performances at the 2023 Biofreeze USA Pickleball National Championships, powered by Invited and the PPA Tour.
Guinness World Record Attempt
This record-setting pickleball tournament is scheduled to take place from November 5-12 at Brookhaven Country Club in Farmers Branch, an inner-ring suburb of Dallas.
Le Freak, a disco tribute band based in Dallas, will also be part of the extensive pickleball celebration.
As if that wasn’t enough, an additional highlight will be a Guinness World Records attempt for the longest consecutive pickleball match, sponsored by Deep Eddy Vodka and taking place on Pickleball Boulevard.
Singer-songwriter Phillips is set to perform on the Championship Court as part of the celebrations.
Phillips: “A Pickleball Fanatic”
Mike Nealy, USA Pickleball Chief Executive Officer, could barely contain his excitement: “We are ecstatic to have Phillip Phillips, a pickleball fanatic himself, perform at the biggest event in our sport.
“Not only is Phillip a musician whose work has garnered international acclaim, but he is also a member of the USA Pickleball community, so we couldn’t think of anyone better to join us at this year’s historic National Championships.
“We look forward to an incredible atmosphere on Pickleball Boulevard that will also be highlighted by the cover band, Le Freak. We’re confident that fans will enjoy an event experience that promises to be unparalleled in our sport to date.”
“Home”
Phillips won the 11th season of American Idol, gaining global prominence with his crowning song and debut track, “Home.”
Notably, this single stands as the highest-selling song in the series’ history and attained multi-platinum status in both the United States and Canada. Acknowledged for his exceptional contributions, Phillips has received numerous significant accolades, including the title of World’s Best Male Artist at the World Music Awards in 2012, as well as the distinction of New Artist of the Year at the American Music Awards in 2013.
This year alone, he has delivered memorable performances at the National Memorial Day Concert and the Stanley Cup Final, culminating in his inaugural appearance at the esteemed Grand Ole Opry.
“A Special Musical Experience”
Phillips elaborated on what the performance will mean to him: “I love playing pickleball, so I’m thrilled to be performing at such a historic event. It’ll be great to share my music with thousands of fans who appreciate this wonderful sport as much as I do.
“It’s going to be a special musical experience, and I can’t wait to give everyone on “Pickleball Boulevard” a show to remember.
“This tournament is a testament to pickleball’s remarkable growth across our country. I was hooked from the moment I picked up a paddle, and I know so many people who are just as passionate about hitting the court and competing as I am.”
Le Freak
The cherished Dallas-based disco tribute ensemble, Le Freak, is also poised to deliver a lively performance at the Nationals on Thursday, November 9.
Often hailed as the “Greatest Disco Band in the World,” they are renowned for their high-octane, dance-inspired entertainment that is sure to ignite a festive and celebratory atmosphere among pickleball enthusiasts.
Le Freak’s repertoire includes hits from acclaimed artists like Kool And The Gang, K.C. & The Sunshine Band, The Bee Gees, The Commodores, The Village People, Earth, Wind and Fire, Michael Jackson, Rod Stewart, Barry Manilow, and Stevie Wonder.
Tickets for Phillip Phillips and Le Freak can be obtained at usapickleballnationals.com.
Guinness World Record Attempt
Beyond the live musical offerings, there will be an important Guinness World Record attempt for the lengthiest consecutive pickleball match along Pickleball Boulevard.
Presented by Deep Eddy Vodka, this record-setting attempt will span seven consecutive days and is anticipated to feature over 1,000 participants divided into two teams, engaging in a doubles format.
Reservation slots of 60 minutes each will be made accessible at a later date, with participants receiving a Guinness World Records certificate and commemorative memorabilia as a memento of their participation.
Hannah Venhoff, Vice President of Deep Eddy Vodka, says, “We are thrilled to sponsor this incredible attempt at a new Guinness World Record.
Deep Eddy is all about creating memorable and fun experiences with friends, and we can’t think of a better memory to take home from Nationals than saying we played a part in setting a world record!
We’re proud to be the official vodka of the Professional Pickleball Association and wish all of this year’s competitors good luck.”
Largest Prize Purse In Its History
A groundbreaking 4,000-plus amateur and professional players are poised to vie for top honors at the Nationals, utilizing over 65 courts. This year, the event boasts the largest prize purse in its history.
The anticipated attendance exceeds 20,000 as enthusiasts gather to witness the thrilling pickleball matches and partake in the festivities at Brookhaven. The venue is presently undergoing substantial enhancements, with an investment of $5.3 million in transformative renovations and upgrades.
Tickets for Nationals, including individual passes, week-long access, as well as tickets for pickleball clinics and select on-site events at Brookhaven, are currently on sale. Click here for purchasing details.
The event kicks off on November 5 with clinics and a variety of engaging activities. The official tournament competition is set to commence on November 6.
