Naples, FL, April 26th, 2024 — Naples, Florida, is widely recognized as the "Pickleball Capital of the World," a title further solidified after hosting yet another U.S. Open Pickleball Championships in East Naples. While many may consider pickleball a contemporary craze, the sport has roots stretching back to the 1960s and has steadily built a dedicated following.

Archival photos from the first U.S. Open Pickleball Championships, held on April 28, 2016, at East Naples Community Park, highlight the sport's burgeoning popularity. The event, created by Terri Graham and Chris Evon through their company, Spirit Promotions, initially attracted 800 participants and 2,000 spectators, marking a significant milestone in Naples' sporting history.

Reflecting on the sport's local impact, former Collier County commissioner Donna Fiala remarked, "Although it’s a very old sport, not many people had heard of it back then. It just hit the area, and there was an almost immediate response. People wanted to get on board.” This enthusiasm has helped Naples secure a spot on the sports map as the definitive home of pickleball.

The transformation at East Naples Community Park also speaks volumes about the community's commitment to the sport. What was once a rundown skate park has been converted into top-notch pickleball courts, catering to the demand from the area's significant senior and retired population. Jim Ludwig, a USA Pickleball ambassador who spearheaded the project, emphasized, “They love the facility we built."

Today, Naples is not just a venue for major pickleball events but also a thriving community hub for players of all ages, demonstrating the sport’s ability to connect and energize locals and visitors alike.