Lithuanian Open 2026 Targets 300 Players in Baltic Pickleball Push

What's the Score?

The Lithuanian Pickleball Federation has officially opened registration for the Lithuanian Open 2026, setting ambitious growth targets that reflect the sport's rapid expansion in the Baltic region. Following a successful 2025 event, organisers are aiming to break the 300-player barrier, positioning the tournament as a premier stop on the Northern European circuit.

Hit it deeper!

The 2025 edition of the tournament drew 193 participants and over 260 distinct entries, a strong showing for the region. For 2026, the Federation has secured the SEB Arena, a high-quality facility capable of hosting over 20 courts simultaneously. This infrastructure upgrade is key to their goal of hosting 300 athletes.

The Federation is marketing the event aggressively to players "from the Baltics and all around Europe," promising "flawless tournament organisation" and categories to suit all skill levels. This move indicates that Lithuania is attempting to become a regional hub for the sport, leveraging its indoor facilities to attract international travel during the competitive season.

The World Pickleball Verdict

While major markets like the US and UK dominate the headlines, the growth in nations like Lithuania is critical for the sport's Olympic aspirations. Moving from 200 to 300 players may seem small in isolation, but it represents a 50% year-over-year growth.

If smaller European federations can consistently deliver high-quality, large-scale international tournaments like this, it builds the necessary continental density to support a true European Tour.