BY CHRIS BEAUMONT, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
While Italy reshapes its competitive landscape this year, Central Europe is making its own powerful statement. The WPC Prague Czech Open 2026 has firmly established the Czech Republic as a premier destination on the continental circuit. Held from January 23–25 at the renowned TK Sparta Praha, the second edition of this tournament proved that the sport’s European surge is gaining serious momentum.
A Global Gathering in the Heart of Europe
Organised by the Czech Pickleball Association and the Prague Pickleball Club, the event transcended local boundaries. The tournament drew 192 players from 18 different countries, creating a truly international atmosphere. Competitors arrived not only from European neighbours like Austria, Germany, Poland, Hungary, and the UK but also from as far afield as the USA, Malaysia, and Vietnam.
The event garnered significant mainstream attention, underscored by the patronage of Patrik Nacher, the 1st Vice-Chairman of the Chamber of Deputies. Nacher did not just officiate the opening; he stepped onto the court for an exhibition match, drawing media coverage that highlighted both the athletic and social significance of the sport.
Elevating Standards: Referees and Rankings
A defining feature of the 2026 Open was the push for professionalisation. For the first time, many Czech players experienced matches officiated by official referees from the European Pickleball Federation (EPF). This addition ensured a unified interpretation of the rules and brought a “major tournament” feel to the courts of Prague.
The competition was structured meticulously over three days:
- Friday: Mixed Doubles
- Saturday: Singles
- Sunday: Women’s and Men’s Doubles.
To ensure competitive balance, brackets were divided by DUPR ratings (3.5, 4.5, and Elite) and age groups (19+, 35+, 50+). Notably, the event also featured a U14 Junior category, investing in the next generation of talent.
High Stakes and Future Dates
The intensity on the court was fueled by a prize purse of €2,300 for the elite categories, a draw that successfully attracted top-tier European talent.
Following the success of the winter edition, the Czech Pickleball Association is already looking toward the summer. The next major stop on the calendar is the JOOLA CUP (International Pickleball Czech Open), scheduled for June 12–14, 2026.
This third annual event will take place at the Areál u Medvěd on six outdoor courts, promising to keep the Czech Republic at the forefront of the 2026 European tour.
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