Pickleball is growing its competitive population worldwide, and tournaments open to everyone from pros to amateurs are held in many places. "What kinds of international tournaments are there?" "Can I take part too?" "How do I apply?" — when you take an interest in tournaments, these are probably the first three things you want to know.
This article organizes the types of major international tournaments, international tournaments held in Japan, level-based and age-based categories that amateurs can also enter, and the steps to participate, with information as of June 2026. Tournament schedules, prize money, and categories change with the year and organizer announcements, so please check the official site of each tournament for the latest information before entering.
Types of major international tournaments [quick reference table]
First, let's organize the world's major tournaments and tours. We'll look at them split between pro tours and developments in the Asia region.
| Tour / tournament | Organizer / region | Features |
|---|---|---|
| PPA Tour | US-centered | The top-tier pro tour where the best players gather |
| MLP | US-centered | A team-vs-team league format |
| APP Tour | US and international | A wide range of categories from pro to amateur |
| Tournaments across Asian countries | Singapore, India, Thailand, Korea, Japan, and more | Associations are being founded one after another, and regional tournaments are expanding |
In the US, pro tours such as the PPA, MLP, and APP run tournaments with total prize money in the millions of dollars, and media exposure is increasing with the entry of celebrities like Andre Agassi. In Asia too, association foundings and tournament hostings are coming one after another in Singapore, India, Thailand, Korea, Japan, and elsewhere, and Vietnam has spread into a nationwide sport within a few years of its introduction around 2018. For the differences between the tours from a spectating perspective, seeSpectating Guideexplains it in detail.
For international governance, reorganization continues, with the integration of the International Pickleball Federation (IPF) and the World Pickleball Federation (WPF) progressing, laying the groundwork toward standardization and eventual inclusion as an Olympic sport.
International tournaments held in Japan
International tournaments where overseas players gather are also held within Japan. We introduce two representative tournaments (schedules and prize money are as of the organizer's announcement).
| Tournaments | Venues | Features |
|---|---|---|
| APP JAPAN SKECHERS Open 2026 | Saorina, Tsu City, Mie Prefecture | Held across pro to general, junior, wheelchair, and team competition. Total pro prize money of 2 million yen |
| PICKLEBALL FUKUOKA OPEN 2026 ITOSHIMA | Itoshima City Sports Park, Fukuoka Prefecture | Regulation courts installed. A networking banquet is also held |
APP JAPAN SKECHERS Open 2026
According to the organizer's announcement, it will be held February 26 - March 1, 2026, at the Nissho Highway Arena (Saorina) in Tsu City, Mie Prefecture. A wide range of categories from pro to general, junior, wheelchair, and team competition is planned, and the total prize money for the pro category is said to be 2 million yen. In addition to men's and women's singles, doubles, and mixed doubles, age-based and junior divisions are expected to be set up. Schedules, prize money, and categories may change, so check the official APP site for the latest information.
PICKLEBALL FUKUOKA OPEN 2026 ITOSHIMA
It was held January 16-17, 2026, at Itoshima City Sports Park in Fukuoka Prefecture. Two courts of the kind used at international tournaments were installed, offering a chance to play in the same environment as the top level. After the tournament, a banquet party was also held where participants could mingle.
Source PICKLEBALL FUKUOKA OPEN 2026 ITOSHIMA Official SiteCreated from
Amateurs can take part too: level-based and age-based categories
International tournaments are not "only for pros." Many tournaments offer level-based and age-based categories, so even those with little competitive experience can take part.
Level-based categories (DUPR)
Many tournaments adopt the globally common rating "DUPR." DUPR is a system that quantifies skill from 2.000 to 8.000 based on match results. Tournaments often accept entries in divisions like the following, so you can enter in the category closest to your level (divisions differ by tournament).
| Example tournament entry divisions | Scope |
|---|---|
| Under DUPR 3.5 | Often set for beginners and those with little competitive experience |
| DUPR 3.5〜4.5 | Intermediate. Those who have solidified the basics and grown used to matches |
| DUPR 4.5 and above | Advanced. Those competing at the regional and national level |
Many tournaments are structured so that every participant plays at least three matches, providing a setup where you can gain experience regardless of wins or losses.
Age-based categories
Age-based divisions are also well developed. You can compete against your own generation in divisions like 19+, 35+, 50+, and 60+, and junior divisions (U14, U18) are also set up. The appeal of pickleball tournaments is being able to enjoy them in a fair environment suited to your fitness and experience.
How to take part in international tournaments
The flow to participation is simple. Let's check it in order, from registration to entry to preparation on the day.
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| 1. Player registration and membership | Depending on the tournament, registration with or membership in the hosting or authorized organization is required (an annual registration fee may apply) |
| 2. DUPR account | Recommended to create one in order to choose a level-based category |
| 3. Entry | Apply from each tournament's official site, choosing a category, age division, and level division |
| 4. Preparation | Prepare an approved-regulation paddle, the designated ball, and non-marking sole shoes |
Notes on registration and entry
The registration or membership required differs by tournament organizer. At tournaments hosted or authorized by an organization, registration with or membership in that organization may be a condition of participation. Entry periods also differ by tournament, and popular tournaments may reach capacity early, so applying early is safest. For doubles and mixed doubles, your partner's information is also required. For the system of domestic organizations, seeThe Japan Pickleball Association's explanationis also worth a look.
Preparing the necessary gear
The ball used is designated for each tournament. At domestic tournaments,Franklin the X-40 is sometimes adopted. Choose a paddle that conforms to the approved regulations. For shoes, a design similar to tennis shoes that supports lateral movement is suitable, and for indoor use, non-marking soles are essential. Those preparing tournament gear for the first time,guide to choosing a paddleis also helpful.
Source General Incorporated Association Japan Pickleball Association "Register / Support"Created from
Benefits of taking part in international tournaments
Taking part in a tournament has value beyond winning or losing. We've organized the main benefits.
- You can compete against players of various levels and styles and objectively grasp your own weaknesses
- Some tournaments let you receive direct instruction at pro clinics and workshops
- Cross-border exchange is born and your community expands
- Motivation rises through practice toward a goal, and you feel your own growth
Pickleball is a highly social sport, and through tournaments and networking events, friends naturally increase. Getting both skill improvement and human connections is what makes taking part in tournaments worthwhile.
Tournament schedules, prize money, and categories change every year. Don't prepare based on "how it was last year" — always check each tournament's official site for the latest guidelines before entering. Deadlines and capacity also depend on the tournament.
FAQ
Can beginners take part in international pickleball tournaments?
Yes. Many tournaments offer level-based categories, and beginner-oriented divisions such as under DUPR 3.5 are sometimes set up. Many tournaments are also structured so that every participant plays at least three matches, so you can take part with peace of mind even with little competitive experience.
Do I need to register to enter a tournament?
It differs by tournament organizer. At tournaments hosted or authorized by an organization, registration with or membership in that organization may be a condition of participation. Entry is done from each tournament's official site, choosing a category, age division, and level division.
What is DUPR?
DUPR is a globally common rating system that quantifies skill from 2.000 to 8.000 based on match results. Tournaments often set level-based categories using this number as a guide, so you can enter in a class close to your ability. Divisions differ by tournament.
Are there international tournaments held in Japan?
Yes. The APP JAPAN SKECHERS Open in Tsu City, Mie Prefecture, and the PICKLEBALL FUKUOKA OPEN in Itoshima City, Fukuoka Prefecture, among others, are held. Schedules, prize money, and categories change with the year and organizer announcements, so check each tournament's official site for the latest information before participating.
Summary: take on the challenge from a category that suits you
International pickleball tournaments welcome a wide range of participants, from pros to amateurs. In Japan too, international tournaments such as APP JAPAN and the FUKUOKA OPEN are held, and level-based and age-based categories are well developed, so even beginners can take on the challenge from a class that suits them.
Participation requires registration with a domestic governing body, but the procedure isn't difficult. Beyond skill improvement, international tournaments also become a chance for international exchange and community building. Start by looking for a category that suits your level and checking the latest tournament guidelines.
Related Articles Worth Reading
- What Is the Japan Pickleball Association (JPA)? Overview, Activities and How to Join
- Pickleball Viewing Guide | The Highlights of APP, PPA and MLP, Plus a Pro Player Directory
- What Is MLP (Major League Pickleball)? The League's Structure and Players to Watch
- Are There Pickleball Tournaments Beginners Can Enter? How to Join and the Right Mindset
- Will Pickleball Become an Olympic Sport? The Possibility and Future Trends Explained
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