US OPEN PICKLEBALL CHAMPIONSHIPS | FAQ
Player Lottery- Winners notified starting January 21
Starting with the 2025 US Open Pickleball Championships, the tournament will officially use Pickleball Den as its exclusive tournament software and DUPR as its exclusive rating system for evaluating and seeding players. To participate, players must have a DUPR account, which can be created for free.
Please review our DUPR FAQ as well as additional FAQ below.
What event level should I enter based on my DUPR rating?
How do I create my free DUPR account?
How do I create my free Pickleball Den account?
How do I connect my Pickleball Den account with DUPR?
What is DUPR?
How does it work?
How do I get a rating?
Why is the US Open using it to evaluate players?
Will this change the lottery system or process to sign up?
How will this impact the competition?
How does DUPR help to prevent sandbagging?
format + scoring
What format will the tournament follow?
Most events follow a double-elimination format. Winners continue to play for gold, and the opportunity bracket will play for bronze. The pro events will use a progressive draw. Split Pro will use a single elimination format.
How is scoring determined?
Matches are best 2 out of 3, games to 11, win by 2. Opportunity bracket matches are single games to 15, win by 2.
What is the difference of the All Skills divisions compared to the Skill + Age divisions?
The All Skills are meant for 4.0+ players, divided by age and are quite challenging! The Skill + Age divisions are separated by both age and skill indicated.
Will matches be seeded using DUPR ratings?
Yes, DUPR ratings are important for accurate seeding across all events. The tournament committee will address all seedings for amateur and pro events.
What is a progressive draw?
Progressive draw is where the pros play one match per day of each event type. For example, on Wednesday during the US Open, you can see a singles women's and men's match, a doubles women's and men's match and a mixed match. Winners continue to progress to the championships on Saturday.
How will DUPR ratings impact the pro draw?
DUPR ratings as well as the tournament committee will determine initial seedings for the pro progressive draw.
Most events follow a double-elimination format. Winners continue to play for gold, and the opportunity bracket will play for bronze. The pro events will use a progressive draw. Split Pro will use a single elimination format.
How is scoring determined?
Matches are best 2 out of 3, games to 11, win by 2. Opportunity bracket matches are single games to 15, win by 2.
What is the difference of the All Skills divisions compared to the Skill + Age divisions?
The All Skills are meant for 4.0+ players, divided by age and are quite challenging! The Skill + Age divisions are separated by both age and skill indicated.
Will matches be seeded using DUPR ratings?
Yes, DUPR ratings are important for accurate seeding across all events. The tournament committee will address all seedings for amateur and pro events.
What is a progressive draw?
Progressive draw is where the pros play one match per day of each event type. For example, on Wednesday during the US Open, you can see a singles women's and men's match, a doubles women's and men's match and a mixed match. Winners continue to progress to the championships on Saturday.
How will DUPR ratings impact the pro draw?
DUPR ratings as well as the tournament committee will determine initial seedings for the pro progressive draw.
junior championships
What is the US Open Junior Championships?
The US Open Junior Championships is a tournament for the top Junior players around the world. They will compete during the opening weekend of the US Open where we will crown Junior Champions across girls, boys and mixed events.
What are the dates for the Junior Championships?
The Junior Championships will take place on the first weekend of the US Open - Saturday, April 26 - with all gold medal matches held on the Zing Zang Championship Court.
Who is eligible to compete in the Junior Championships?
Players aged 18 and under are eligible. DUPR ratings will be used for seeding and match play.
Do Junior players get a discount?
Yes, junior players pay a $25 registration. fee and $25 entry fee.
The US Open Junior Championships is a tournament for the top Junior players around the world. They will compete during the opening weekend of the US Open where we will crown Junior Champions across girls, boys and mixed events.
What are the dates for the Junior Championships?
The Junior Championships will take place on the first weekend of the US Open - Saturday, April 26 - with all gold medal matches held on the Zing Zang Championship Court.
Who is eligible to compete in the Junior Championships?
Players aged 18 and under are eligible. DUPR ratings will be used for seeding and match play.
Do Junior players get a discount?
Yes, junior players pay a $25 registration. fee and $25 entry fee.
player lottery
Do you need a partner to put your name in the lottery?
Yes, you need a partner to register for doubles events, including Men’s Doubles, Women’s Doubles, and Mixed Doubles. Both partners must register and pay the required fees for the team to be entered into the lottery. If one partner does not complete their registration, the team will not be eligible for the lottery.
If you and your partner and not both in the same skill and age range, you become second priority for the lottery. This is a big issue for age - you may be one year apart but one of you ages into the next bracket and you can't play together as you will never get in as second priority.
We actually modified the prioritization this year as we think it's important for athletes to play with their normal partners should they choose to do so. So, as long as you play
a) The age of the lowest team member, AND
b) The skill level equal to or higher of the highest team member; you are the same priority as everyone else.
Please refer to our registration page for full details.
What if my partner has a different rating/age, what events do we sign up for?
In order to be eligible for the US Open Player Lottery, you may compete in the event that matches:
a) The age of the lowest team member, AND
b) The skill level equal to or higher of the highest team member
Can you put your name in the lottery for multiple events? Ex. Men's Doubles and Mixed Doubles
Yes, you can enter the lottery for multiple events. Each event (e.g., Men’s Doubles, Mixed Doubles, Singles) is treated as a separate lottery entry. This means you can register for more than one event and increase your chances of being selected for at least one. However, keep in mind that you will need to pay the entry fees for each event you register for.
Will medalists from the 2024 US Open automatically make it into the 2025 Championships, or do they still have to go through the lottery?
Medalists from the 2024 US Open Pickleball Championships do not automatically qualify for the 2025 Championships. All players, including past medalists, must go through the lottery process to secure their spots for the next tournament. This approach ensures fairness and provides equal opportunity for all players, whether they are returning medalists or new participants.
Does the Lottery system mean that if an Age event designed for 16 teams and 50 teams applies, it is strictly a lottery? In other words, a team of two 3.5 players could be in the draw with two 5.0 players out of the draw. The better players have entered tournaments, developed their game, and may not be able to get into the Age division at the U S Open because of a lottery.
Age Event Process: In age-based events, the lottery system randomly selects teams from the pool of applicants, regardless of skill level. The minimum skill, though, is 4.0. This means that a team of two 4.0 players could be drawn while a team of two 5.0 players might not make the cut.
Please address how many teams you will take in each bracket - last year only 8 teams got in for the 65 to 69 women’s 3.5 age bracket and there was a long wait list.
Bracket sizing is based on court capacity and demand. The US Open makes all attempts to maximize the number of players across all brackets.
When I apply, am I applying as an individual or as part of a pair? Ex. My Men’s partner and I both apply via lottery.
For doubles events, you and your partner apply as a pair. The lottery for doubles events is a team-based lottery, meaning your team is entered as a single unit. If your team is selected in the lottery, both you and your partner secure spots in the event. However, it’s important to ensure that both you and your partner have completed your registrations and paid the required fees. If one partner’s registration is incomplete, the team will not be entered into the lottery.
What Happens If Only One Partner Gets In?
This Should Not Occur: The lottery does not select individual partners for doubles events—it selects teams. If the team isn’t selected, neither partner will gain entry.
Confirm Registration: Ensure that both partners complete their registration and pay the required fees to be eligible for selection as a team.
Tips to Avoid Issues - Register Together: Coordinate with your partner to register and pay as soon as the registration period opens.
Monitor Confirmation: Both players should receive confirmation emails verifying that the team is entered into the lottery.
What happens if I enter the lottery with a set partner for women's doubles, we get selected, but then my partner cannot make the tournament? Am I still able to play? If yes, how do I find another partner? Do I need to go through US Minto/Pickleball Brackets site and go through the "Requesting a partner" process or can I find a person at my local club and have her sign up?
Yes, you can still play, but you must replace your partner within the tournament’s guidelines. Replacement partners are typically allowed if: They meet the same skill and age bracket requirements as the original partner. They complete their registration and payment through the tournament system.
What if my birthday is after the event? Does that affect what age bracket I can enter?
All players are registered based on the age they will be on 12/31/25.
Is there anything I can (or shouldn't do) to increase my chances?
The lottery was designed to give everyone an equal opportunity if they are playing at the correct skill/age. The number of lottery winners is dependent on how many people enter to play each event. Do: Enter the Lottery! Don't: Don't attempt to play down in skill. We will see it, players see it, and you won't have an opportunity to win.
How do I know if I did not win the lottery and was instead moved to the waitlist?
If you do not receive an email indicating you have won a place in an event, you are on the waitlist. Keep watching your email, though, for an invite!
I've never played in the US Open. What are my chances of getting in?
Your chances are exactly the same as all others who enter the lottery.
I won last year, does that guarantee me automatic entry?
No. Automatic entry is not guaranteed for past winners of the US Open.
How do I find a partner to play with?
During Pre-Registration visit the US OPEN Player Connection FB page. Post-Registration: If your partner cancels, email registration@usopenpickleball.com to add a new partner. You may choose a new partner who is not already registered in the US OPEN until April 1st. After April 1st, you must choose a sub from a player already registered in the US OPEN. Replacement players must be able to play in the same skill/age group that you have a spot in. You are not permitted to change events. Keep in mind, as you search for a replacement, that players may play down in age and up in skill. Once the US OPEN has begun, replacements must be communicated to registration@usopenpickleball.com by 6 p.m. the day before your event is scheduled to play. Any request for replacements after 6 p.m. will be reviewed by the Tournament Director for approval. Replacements can be found on the players needing partners list.How will brackets be seeded?Brackets will be seeded via DUPR and randomization for all amateur. Pro Brackets will be seeded by a seeding committee.
What do I do if my partner drops out?
Reach out to the US Open Registration Team via registration@usopenpickleball.com and check the Players Needing Partners link on Pickleball Den. You can also try contacting other players you know who might be interested and qualified to play in the event in which you are registered.
How/when can I see a list of players competing at the event?
The Player list will be viewable on March 15th on Pickleball Den.
Yes, you need a partner to register for doubles events, including Men’s Doubles, Women’s Doubles, and Mixed Doubles. Both partners must register and pay the required fees for the team to be entered into the lottery. If one partner does not complete their registration, the team will not be eligible for the lottery.
If you and your partner and not both in the same skill and age range, you become second priority for the lottery. This is a big issue for age - you may be one year apart but one of you ages into the next bracket and you can't play together as you will never get in as second priority.
We actually modified the prioritization this year as we think it's important for athletes to play with their normal partners should they choose to do so. So, as long as you play
a) The age of the lowest team member, AND
b) The skill level equal to or higher of the highest team member; you are the same priority as everyone else.
Please refer to our registration page for full details.
What if my partner has a different rating/age, what events do we sign up for?
In order to be eligible for the US Open Player Lottery, you may compete in the event that matches:
a) The age of the lowest team member, AND
b) The skill level equal to or higher of the highest team member
Can you put your name in the lottery for multiple events? Ex. Men's Doubles and Mixed Doubles
Yes, you can enter the lottery for multiple events. Each event (e.g., Men’s Doubles, Mixed Doubles, Singles) is treated as a separate lottery entry. This means you can register for more than one event and increase your chances of being selected for at least one. However, keep in mind that you will need to pay the entry fees for each event you register for.
Will medalists from the 2024 US Open automatically make it into the 2025 Championships, or do they still have to go through the lottery?
Medalists from the 2024 US Open Pickleball Championships do not automatically qualify for the 2025 Championships. All players, including past medalists, must go through the lottery process to secure their spots for the next tournament. This approach ensures fairness and provides equal opportunity for all players, whether they are returning medalists or new participants.
Does the Lottery system mean that if an Age event designed for 16 teams and 50 teams applies, it is strictly a lottery? In other words, a team of two 3.5 players could be in the draw with two 5.0 players out of the draw. The better players have entered tournaments, developed their game, and may not be able to get into the Age division at the U S Open because of a lottery.
Age Event Process: In age-based events, the lottery system randomly selects teams from the pool of applicants, regardless of skill level. The minimum skill, though, is 4.0. This means that a team of two 4.0 players could be drawn while a team of two 5.0 players might not make the cut.
Please address how many teams you will take in each bracket - last year only 8 teams got in for the 65 to 69 women’s 3.5 age bracket and there was a long wait list.
Bracket sizing is based on court capacity and demand. The US Open makes all attempts to maximize the number of players across all brackets.
When I apply, am I applying as an individual or as part of a pair? Ex. My Men’s partner and I both apply via lottery.
For doubles events, you and your partner apply as a pair. The lottery for doubles events is a team-based lottery, meaning your team is entered as a single unit. If your team is selected in the lottery, both you and your partner secure spots in the event. However, it’s important to ensure that both you and your partner have completed your registrations and paid the required fees. If one partner’s registration is incomplete, the team will not be entered into the lottery.
What Happens If Only One Partner Gets In?
This Should Not Occur: The lottery does not select individual partners for doubles events—it selects teams. If the team isn’t selected, neither partner will gain entry.
Confirm Registration: Ensure that both partners complete their registration and pay the required fees to be eligible for selection as a team.
Tips to Avoid Issues - Register Together: Coordinate with your partner to register and pay as soon as the registration period opens.
Monitor Confirmation: Both players should receive confirmation emails verifying that the team is entered into the lottery.
What happens if I enter the lottery with a set partner for women's doubles, we get selected, but then my partner cannot make the tournament? Am I still able to play? If yes, how do I find another partner? Do I need to go through US Minto/Pickleball Brackets site and go through the "Requesting a partner" process or can I find a person at my local club and have her sign up?
Yes, you can still play, but you must replace your partner within the tournament’s guidelines. Replacement partners are typically allowed if: They meet the same skill and age bracket requirements as the original partner. They complete their registration and payment through the tournament system.
What if my birthday is after the event? Does that affect what age bracket I can enter?
All players are registered based on the age they will be on 12/31/25.
Is there anything I can (or shouldn't do) to increase my chances?
The lottery was designed to give everyone an equal opportunity if they are playing at the correct skill/age. The number of lottery winners is dependent on how many people enter to play each event. Do: Enter the Lottery! Don't: Don't attempt to play down in skill. We will see it, players see it, and you won't have an opportunity to win.
How do I know if I did not win the lottery and was instead moved to the waitlist?
If you do not receive an email indicating you have won a place in an event, you are on the waitlist. Keep watching your email, though, for an invite!
I've never played in the US Open. What are my chances of getting in?
Your chances are exactly the same as all others who enter the lottery.
I won last year, does that guarantee me automatic entry?
No. Automatic entry is not guaranteed for past winners of the US Open.
How do I find a partner to play with?
During Pre-Registration visit the US OPEN Player Connection FB page. Post-Registration: If your partner cancels, email registration@usopenpickleball.com to add a new partner. You may choose a new partner who is not already registered in the US OPEN until April 1st. After April 1st, you must choose a sub from a player already registered in the US OPEN. Replacement players must be able to play in the same skill/age group that you have a spot in. You are not permitted to change events. Keep in mind, as you search for a replacement, that players may play down in age and up in skill. Once the US OPEN has begun, replacements must be communicated to registration@usopenpickleball.com by 6 p.m. the day before your event is scheduled to play. Any request for replacements after 6 p.m. will be reviewed by the Tournament Director for approval. Replacements can be found on the players needing partners list.How will brackets be seeded?Brackets will be seeded via DUPR and randomization for all amateur. Pro Brackets will be seeded by a seeding committee.
What do I do if my partner drops out?
Reach out to the US Open Registration Team via registration@usopenpickleball.com and check the Players Needing Partners link on Pickleball Den. You can also try contacting other players you know who might be interested and qualified to play in the event in which you are registered.
How/when can I see a list of players competing at the event?
The Player list will be viewable on March 15th on Pickleball Den.
refereeing
Will referees be provided for all matches?
All matches will have referees! If there are weather or other delays, this could affect referee availability. We, of course, are hoping for sunny days!
How do I sign up as a referee?
Visit the Volunteer | Referee section of our web site.
All matches will have referees! If there are weather or other delays, this could affect referee availability. We, of course, are hoping for sunny days!
How do I sign up as a referee?
Visit the Volunteer | Referee section of our web site.
registration
Can you play in Pro, Senior Pro and/or Amateur for the same event (e.g. Mixed Doubles, Singles, Gender Doubles)?
In general, you may play in Pro division or Amateur, but not both. We have determined there are situations where you may enter the Split Age Pro event (one player over 50 and one player under 50) and still enter the Age events. For example, you could enter Split Age Pro Mixed Doubles, and then also enter Mixed Doubles Age 50-54.
Where do we register?
The Player Lottery is run on Pickleball Den, and links are provided on our web site.
When does registration open and close?
Registration details, including opening and closing dates, will be provided to players who secure a spot through the lottery. Stay updated by following official communications.
Additional information can be found on our Registration page.
In general, you may play in Pro division or Amateur, but not both. We have determined there are situations where you may enter the Split Age Pro event (one player over 50 and one player under 50) and still enter the Age events. For example, you could enter Split Age Pro Mixed Doubles, and then also enter Mixed Doubles Age 50-54.
Where do we register?
The Player Lottery is run on Pickleball Den, and links are provided on our web site.
When does registration open and close?
Registration details, including opening and closing dates, will be provided to players who secure a spot through the lottery. Stay updated by following official communications.
Additional information can be found on our Registration page.
schedule
Please see our Schedule page for the most up-to-date information regarding events and programming.
tickets
When does the Ticket Lottery open and close?
The Ticket Lottery for the 2025 US Open Pickleball Championships opens on January 31 and closes midnight on February 4, 2025.
Who gets priority in the lottery system?
The ticket lottery is fully randomized- your odds are as good as everyone who enters!
Can I request multiple days?
Yes. You may request as many days as you like.
What does a ticket get me?
Access to the Zing Zang Championship Court. General bleacher seating. First come first served.
How many tickets can I get?
You may request up to 4 tickets Sunday - Thursday. Two tickets on Friday and Saturday.
If I don't get tickets, can I still come to the event? How much are those how do I get them?
Yes! Its free to watch pro and amateur matches on the 59 courts throughout the park. There is a $5 parking fee per day. A ticket is only needed to watch matches on the Zing Zang Championship Court.
We are coming to watch the championship games. How do we obtain tickets to watch in person on May 2nd and 3rd?
Tickets for the championship games on May 2nd and 3rd at the US Open Pickleball Championships can be obtained through the official ticketing process:
Ticket Lottery: The US Open Pickleball Championships uses an online ticket lottery system for highly sought-after seats, including the Zing Zang Championship Court. Details about the lottery process, including registration dates, are announced on the official US Open Pickleball Championships website.
General Ticket Sales: If tickets remain after the lottery, they may become available for general sale.
On-Site Purchases: Limited tickets may be available for purchase at the event venue if not sold out. Arrive early to increase your chances of securing seats.
VIP Packages: For a premium experience, consider exploring VIP ticket packages, which often include reserved seating, access to special areas, and additional amenities. These are also available through the official site.
The Ticket Lottery for the 2025 US Open Pickleball Championships opens on January 31 and closes midnight on February 4, 2025.
Who gets priority in the lottery system?
The ticket lottery is fully randomized- your odds are as good as everyone who enters!
Can I request multiple days?
Yes. You may request as many days as you like.
What does a ticket get me?
Access to the Zing Zang Championship Court. General bleacher seating. First come first served.
How many tickets can I get?
You may request up to 4 tickets Sunday - Thursday. Two tickets on Friday and Saturday.
If I don't get tickets, can I still come to the event? How much are those how do I get them?
Yes! Its free to watch pro and amateur matches on the 59 courts throughout the park. There is a $5 parking fee per day. A ticket is only needed to watch matches on the Zing Zang Championship Court.
We are coming to watch the championship games. How do we obtain tickets to watch in person on May 2nd and 3rd?
Tickets for the championship games on May 2nd and 3rd at the US Open Pickleball Championships can be obtained through the official ticketing process:
Ticket Lottery: The US Open Pickleball Championships uses an online ticket lottery system for highly sought-after seats, including the Zing Zang Championship Court. Details about the lottery process, including registration dates, are announced on the official US Open Pickleball Championships website.
General Ticket Sales: If tickets remain after the lottery, they may become available for general sale.
On-Site Purchases: Limited tickets may be available for purchase at the event venue if not sold out. Arrive early to increase your chances of securing seats.
VIP Packages: For a premium experience, consider exploring VIP ticket packages, which often include reserved seating, access to special areas, and additional amenities. These are also available through the official site.
vendors
What vendors will be featured?
Vendors include top pickleball brands, apparel, equipment, and food vendors. A full list will be available closer to the event.
Will there be exclusive merchandise?
Yes, exclusive US Open Pickleball Championships merchandise will be sold at the Vendor Village.
Vendors include top pickleball brands, apparel, equipment, and food vendors. A full list will be available closer to the event.
Will there be exclusive merchandise?
Yes, exclusive US Open Pickleball Championships merchandise will be sold at the Vendor Village.
Venue
Will there be many water misters available at the event this year throughout the grounds to help players stay cool?
Yes, the tournament organizers recognize the importance of player comfort and hydration, especially in the Florida heat. For the 2025 US Open Pickleball Championships, there will be water misters strategically placed throughout the grounds to help players and spectators stay cool. In addition to the misters, there will also be:
✅ Hydration stations offering water and electrolyte drinks
✅ Shaded seating areas near the courts
✅ A first aid station for any heat-related concerns
What food options are available at the venue?
Food trucks and concessions will offer a variety of cuisines, including vegetarian and gluten-free options.
Can I bring a cooler?
Yes. However as per County regulations, outside alcohol may not be brought on site.
Can I bring my own chair and shade?
Yes, so long as your shade doesn't obstruct viewing
Can I park my RV on site?
No. There are RV parking opportunities at the East Naples Community Park where the US Open is held.
Can I bring a dog?
Yes. Dogs are welcome to join the fun, but we ask that they:
✅ Are well-behaved
✅ Stay on a leash at all times
✅ Respect others and the event space
You must also clean after them. Dogs will not be allowed on the Zing Zang Championship Court.
How many restrooms on site?
There are many restrooms throughout the park
Are there showers?
Yes, showers are available at the US Open Pavillion.
Can I park on site?
Parking on site is limited. You may be directed to our remote parking across the street. Please plan ahead. There is a great and convenient shuttle service to get you to the park. There is a $5 parking fee or you can get a weekly pass for $30. All proceeds are donated to the Kiwanis Club.
Yes, the tournament organizers recognize the importance of player comfort and hydration, especially in the Florida heat. For the 2025 US Open Pickleball Championships, there will be water misters strategically placed throughout the grounds to help players and spectators stay cool. In addition to the misters, there will also be:
✅ Hydration stations offering water and electrolyte drinks
✅ Shaded seating areas near the courts
✅ A first aid station for any heat-related concerns
What food options are available at the venue?
Food trucks and concessions will offer a variety of cuisines, including vegetarian and gluten-free options.
Can I bring a cooler?
Yes. However as per County regulations, outside alcohol may not be brought on site.
Can I bring my own chair and shade?
Yes, so long as your shade doesn't obstruct viewing
Can I park my RV on site?
No. There are RV parking opportunities at the East Naples Community Park where the US Open is held.
Can I bring a dog?
Yes. Dogs are welcome to join the fun, but we ask that they:
✅ Are well-behaved
✅ Stay on a leash at all times
✅ Respect others and the event space
You must also clean after them. Dogs will not be allowed on the Zing Zang Championship Court.
How many restrooms on site?
There are many restrooms throughout the park
Are there showers?
Yes, showers are available at the US Open Pavillion.
Can I park on site?
Parking on site is limited. You may be directed to our remote parking across the street. Please plan ahead. There is a great and convenient shuttle service to get you to the park. There is a $5 parking fee or you can get a weekly pass for $30. All proceeds are donated to the Kiwanis Club.
