You can look for, sign up for, and play in pickleball tournaments at these places:

• The largest directory in the U.S. and globally of amateur and pro events is found at PickleballTournaments.com.
• Another leading platform for bracket-style events, leagues, and clubs is PickleballBrackets.com.
• Clubs, YMCAs, and Local Organizations: Many hold seasonal or annual tournaments that they list on their websites or bulletin boards.
• Facebook Groups: Often, regional pickleball communities post information about their upcoming events on these.
• Municipal Parks and Recreation Departments: Events run by the city can often be a wonderful launching pad for novices.

Pickleball tournaments come in many formats, including:

• Round Robin: Every team plays each other once; great for beginners
• Double Elimination: Lose twice and you’re out; used in most competitive events
• Shootouts: Quick single-day events, often skill-based
• Sanctioned Tournaments: Official events that follow USA Pickleball rules and count toward your DUPR or UTPR rating
• Pro Circuit Events: PPA, APP, and MLP (Major League Pickleball) offer elite-level competition with prize money and rankings

1. Visit a tournament listing site like PickleballTournaments.com
2. Search by state, city, or date range
3. Choose your skill level (e.g., 3.0–5.0) and age group
4. Create an account and register, often with your partner (if doubles)
5. Pay the entry fee and wait for confirmation

Note: Popular tournaments can fill up quickly—register early!

Most competitions utilize talent markers like:

• Recreational (2.5–3.0)
• Intermediate (3.5-3.99)
• Advanced (4.0–4.5)
• Competitive/Pro (5.0+)

Use your DUPR, self-rating, or club ranking to enter the correct division.

• Arrive at the venue on time and do the necessary physical prep before you take the stage for your opening game.
• Bring hydration, snacks, and extra equipment (paddle, alternative clothing, footwear).
• Maintain awareness of when your matches occur and the placement of your bracket.
• Concentrate on maintaining consistent performance rather than consistently nailing difficult shots.
• Keep in mind that each and every person is jittery during the initial experience! Engage in competition and acquire knowledge.

• The Pickleball Capital – Naples, FL: Home of the US Open Pickleball Championships
• Mesa, AZ / Palm Desert, CA: Hosts for PPA and APP tour stops
• Indian Wells Tennis Garden (CA): Site of national-level events
• Austin, TX & Atlanta, GA: Major League Pickleball venues
• Your Local Park: Seriously, there’s a good chance a tournament is happening near you!

• Log results through DUPR or USAPA profiles
• Play in different formats (singles, men’s/women’s doubles, mixed)
• Join leagues or ladder events to stay tournament-ready
• Follow pro tours (PPA, APP, MLP) for tips and inspiration