The annual Minto US Open Pickleball Championships make a grand return to Naples on April 13. The week-long event promises to be an extra special occasion with a record number of participants and the biggest purse ever offered.
Over 3,000 Participants
With over 3,000 participants of all ages and skill levels, the tournament is primed to take over East Naples Community Park from April 13 to 20. Enthusiasts from every corner of the United States, including American Samoa and 31 other international destinations, will converge on the park’s sprawling 60-plus courts. More than 450 seasoned professionals will vie for a US Open record-breaking prize pool of about $150,000.
Last year’s tournament saw around 3,100 contenders and drew a staggering 41,000 spectators throughout the week. Collier County officials estimate a substantial economic boost of $14 million, factoring in expenditures on accommodations and other local amenities.
Spotlight Shines On Local Favorites
Securing tickets for the event is a breeze, and admission is free for all. However, tickets are mandatory for catching the pro matches on the Zing Zang Championship Court. Due to overwhelming demand, ticket sales kicked off via a lottery system in February, but they will also be available for purchase at the venue if space permits.
As Naples Daily News points out, the spotlight shines on prominent players such as local favorites Parris Todd and Simone Jardim. Todd made waves in the previous edition by clinching the women’s singles, women’s doubles (alongside Jardim), and mixed doubles titles (with Hunter Johnson). Joining them are a constellation of top-tier pros, including Megan Fudge, Jorja Johnson, Anna Leigh Waters, Andrei Daescu, Hunter Johnson, and Yates Johnson.
Many former professional athletes from various disciplines and notable personalities are also due to compete, including tennis luminary Ivan Lendl, NBA legend Rick Barry, and ex-University of Florida quarterback Danny Wuerffel.
For attendees, parking is a nominal fee of $5 per car. Proceeds are directed towards the Kiwanis Club’s “Christmas in July” initiative, which benefits disadvantaged students in Collier County. Shuttle services are complimentary from the parking lots.
The venue address is East Naples Community Park, 3500 Thomasson Drive, Naples, FL 34112.
Live Daily Streaming
While bleacher seating is provided, spectators are encouraged to bring portable chairs for added comfort. Coolers are permitted, albeit alcohol and glass containers are not. Hydration stations are scattered throughout the park, while food and beverages, including alcohol, are available for purchase.
It’s worth noting that most vendors accept cash and credit cards, as there’s no on-site ATM. Some seating areas lack shade, so attendees may want to pack hats or umbrellas. Dogs are welcome at the park but are not allowed on the Zing Zang Championship Court.
For those unable to attend in person, fret not! The tournament will be streamed live daily on Pickleball Channel via YouTube, Facebook, and pickleballchannel.com. CBS Sports Network will also broadcast the men’s and women’s singles, doubles, and mixed doubles finals on April 19 from 4 to 7 p.m. and April 20 from 5 to 7 p.m., ensuring nobody misses out on the action.
