Major League Pickleball Introduces Unique Super Sunday Belt for 2026 Season

Major League Pickleball is introducing the Super Sunday Belt for its 2026 season, a unique championship prize that will be passed from winner to winner throughout the season. This innovative tradition aims to create an ongoing narrative, reminiscent of championship belts in combat sports. The LA Mad Drops and New Jersey 5s are the first teams to hold this vibrant belt, which symbolizes excellence and excitement in professional pickleball. As the league continues to grow, the Super Sunday Belt may become a significant part of its identity, offering players a fresh way to celebrate their achievements.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 5, 2026, 13:40 IST

A New Era in Major League Pickleball

Major League Pickleball (MLP) is set to enhance its 2026 season with an exciting new tradition—the Super Sunday Belt. This innovative championship prize will be passed from one event winner to the next throughout the season. The belt made its first appearance at the opening event in Dallas, where the LA Mad Drops proudly became the inaugural holders. Following their victory, the New Jersey 5s claimed the belt at MLP Columbus, continuing the legacy of this unique accolade.

Unlike traditional trophies that often remain on display, the Super Sunday Belt is intended to be carried by champions, creating a continuous narrative throughout the season. This concept draws inspiration from combat sports, where championship belts are symbols of prestige and recognition.

For the LA Mad Drops, being the first team to receive this belt is a memorable achievement. Chris Cantino, the general manager, expressed, “Being the first team to lift the Super Sunday Belt is something we’ll always remember. Dallas was the first big test for our team, and to come out as champions makes it even more meaningful. We know one event doesn’t define a season, but it’s a satisfying reward for the work our players and staff have put in and a special moment for our fans. It’s an honor for the LA Mad Drops to be the first team to be awarded with this new tradition.”

What Makes the Super Sunday Belt Special?

The championship belt is hard to overlook, featuring a vibrant orange design with gold plates embossed with the MLP logo and silver snaps for easy wear during celebrations. Ryan Harwood, owner and general manager of the New Jersey 5s, was among the first to showcase the belt after his team's victory.

This belt is more than just a trophy; it signifies MLP's commitment to establishing a strong identity as professional pickleball gains popularity. The league is known for its lively atmosphere, enthusiastic fan engagement, and intense team rivalries, making the Super Sunday Belt a fitting addition to its character.

The symbolism of the belt is significant, as championship belts are traditionally linked to sports that thrive on emotion, rivalry, and entertainment, such as boxing and mixed martial arts. By adopting this symbol, MLP not only rewards excellence but also embraces the excitement and drama that are central to its appeal.

Additionally, the belt offers a fresh alternative for athletes who are used to receiving medals and trophies. For top players like Anna Leigh Waters and Ben Johns, who have numerous titles to their names, this wearable championship prize serves as a new visual representation of their achievements. As professional pickleball seeks to establish traditions that resonate with both players and fans, the Super Sunday Belt could become more than just a novelty. With each event champion taking possession before passing it on, the belt fosters a season-long narrative, ensuring that every title celebration is distinct and filled with added excitement.