Lottery to play in 2026 US Open Pickleball Championships opens Jan. 14
Looking for a chance to compete at the 2026 US Open Pickleball Championships in Naples? You'll need a bit of luck.
The athlete lottery for this year's tournament runs from Jan. 14-20 and is the main pathway for both amateur and professional players to gain entry to what's billed as the biggest pickleball party in the world.
The US Open certainly lived up to that moniker in 2025, attracting 3,450 athletes and more than 55,000 spectators to East Naples Community Park for the weeklong event, highlighted by tennis legend Andre Agassi's professional pickleball debut.
More: 2025 US Open Pickleball Championships: Andre Agassi, Anna Leigh Waters hope to grow sport’s interest
Organizers expect record demand for playing slots in this year's tournament, which will be celebrating its 10th anniversary.
Andre Agassi makes his pickleball debut as he competes with Anna Leigh Waters in a Minto U.S. Open Pickleball Championships mixed pro doubles match against Tristan Dussault and Stevie Petrpouleas at East Naples Community Park in Naples, Fla., on Wednesday, April 30, 2025. Agassi and Waters won 2-1.
“The athlete lottery is always one of the most anticipated moments of the year, and this year it carries even more significance,” said Ben Weinberger, US Open President and tournament director. “The US Open’s 10-year anniversary is a landmark moment for pickleball and one of the biggest milestones in the event’s history. We’re celebrating how far the game has come, while also setting the stage for what’s next.”
To honor the US Open's anniversary, organizers are planning new athlete experiences, enhanced fan engagement, and special celebrations throughout tournament week, set for April 11-18.
For athlete lottery details, event updates, and official announcements, visit usopenpickleball.com.
This article originally appeared on Naples Daily News: 10th annual US Open Pickleball Championships player lottery opens soon
