Massive Growth Expected at the Upcoming Pickleball English OPEN in 2026
Exciting Developments for the Pickleball English OPEN
The Pickleball English OPEN is gearing up for its largest edition yet, with over 3,000 participants anticipated to compete at Birmingham's NEC Campus in August 2026. This marks the first time the tournament will be held at the NEC, where organizers plan to transform several interconnected halls into a massive indoor venue featuring 60 courts.
Scheduled for August 11-16, this six-day event is poised to become the largest indoor pickleball tournament ever held, further solidifying the English OPEN's status as the premier pickleball competition outside the United States. This decision follows a period of significant growth for both the tournament and the sport itself. The previous edition in 2025 at Telford International Centre saw participation from over 2,300 players across more than 40 countries, and registrations for 2026 have already exceeded 3,000.
Competitors from the UK and abroad will participate in various divisions, ranging from 3.0 skill levels to Open (Pro) categories, with events designed for multiple age groups. Karen Mitchell, Chair and Co-Founder of Pickleball England, emphasized that relocating to the NEC is a pivotal advancement for the sport. She stated, "Bringing the English OPEN to the NEC Campus in Birmingham is a landmark moment for pickleball in England. The venue's scale and flexibility will allow us to provide an unparalleled experience for players, spectators, and partners. With demand at unprecedented levels, this move ensures we can continue to expand the event and showcase our sport on a world-class platform."
Mitchell also noted that the increase in registrations highlights the rising popularity of pickleball both in the UK and globally. "The English OPEN has seen consistent growth, and the response from players worldwide has been remarkable. Moving to the NEC provides us with the necessary space and infrastructure to elevate the event and accommodate even more competitors and fans," she added.
Sarah Harvey, Deputy CEO and Managing Director of Exhibitions for the NEC Campus, expressed enthusiasm for hosting the tournament. "We’re thrilled to welcome the Pickleball English Open to the NEC Campus this summer. As we continue to enhance our offerings, particularly during the summer months, this event is a fantastic addition to our program," Harvey remarked. She further highlighted that the event showcases the increasing appeal of emerging sports and their capacity to draw international audiences. "The scale of this event and the variety of participants coming to Birmingham underscore why pickleball has become one of the most discussed participation sports globally today," she concluded.