International Pickleball Championships 2025 Set to Take Over Tokyo

Tokyo Welcomes the World: PJF Pickleball Championships 2025

The Japan Pickleball Federation (PJF), led by Chairperson Hiroko Hayashi, is gearing up to host its largest international event yet – the ZIPAIR & Daiwa Securities Group present PJF Pickleball Championships 2025. Scheduled for December 10 to 13 at the Ariake Tennis Forest Park, this prestigious competition expects to attract 1,300 athletes from 18 different countries. Participants will include top professionals, amateur players, and juniors, promising an exciting atmosphere over four exhilarating days.

A Bigger and Bolder Competition

The 2025 edition marks an unprecedented scale in the history of pickleball competitions in Japan. With a diverse roster of athletes spanning various age groups, the tournament aims to showcase the growing popularity of the sport domestically and abroad. The excitement will peak on December 11, when four of the top PPA stars (James Ignatowich, Ryan Fu, Parris Todd, and Vivian Glosman) will grace the event, featuring exhibitions, clinics, and a special reception, all while the iconic Godzilla makes a guest appearance.

Special Features and Events

1. Diverse Competition: Participate in various categories, including the first-ever junior division for ages 5 to 18, to foster new talent and inspire the next generation of pickleball stars.
2. Challenge the Pro: This interactive event invites amateurs to test their skills against the PPA professionals, with luxurious prizes including hotel vouchers and quality equipment.
3. Coaching and Referee Workshops: Attendees can gain invaluable insights into international standards of coaching and refereeing, helping to support the sport's development in Japan.
4. Culinary Experiences: From December 11 to 13, the venue will feature two food trucks, one sponsored by Burger King, serving a special menu, and another offering authentic Italian dishes made with Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese.
5. Special Collaborative Events: On December 11, a special collaboration featuring SHIHO and Reiko Shiota will take place, complete with a cheese introduction talk show and pickleball challenges.

Additionally, the 2025 Championships will culminate in a grand finale on December 13, with a total prize pool of 5 million yen, drawing fierce competition between the best athletes, both international and local.

Schedule of Events

Day 1: Opening Day - December 10

- Mixed Doubles Skill Events (includes junior participation)
- Professional clinics
- Challenge the Pro

Day 2: Special Events - December 11

- Senior Men's and Women's Doubles Skill events
- Mixed Doubles OPEN
- Exclusive collaborations (SHIHO's talk and pickleball experience)
- Exhibition and reception with PPA pros and Godzilla

Day 3: Doubles Competition - December 12

- Men's and Women's Doubles Skill events
- Professional clinics

Day 4: Final Prize Competition - December 13

- Men's and Women's OPEN and Senior Mixed OPEN/Skill events

December 14 marks the Asia Pickleball Games 2025, where Japan will host a national competition featuring representatives from 11 countries.

Local Athletes to Watch

Japanese athletes such as Kei Sawaki, Nasa Hatakeyama, and Yuta Yoshida are ready to shine on this international stage, facing some of the world's best.

- Kei Sawaki: A world junior champion with multiple victories in international competitions.
- Nasa Hatakeyama: A strategic player known for his undefeated record in national competitions.
- Yuta Yoshida: The reigning prize king of the BK Cup and a formidable captain with exceptional mental strength.

Whether you're a participant or a spectator, the PJF Pickleball Championships 2025 promises to be a landmark event that blends competitive spirit with cultural experiences, creating lasting memories in the heart of Tokyo. Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity; apply for press coverage through this form and join us at the Ariake Tennis Forest Park, located just an 8-minute walk from the Kokusai-Tenjijo Station on the Rinkai Line.