Professional Divisions
Pro, Champion Pro & Masters Pro Nationals Information
Welcome to the official information hub for Pro, Champion Pro, and Masters Pro competition at the 2026 Oceanview USA Pickleball National Championships. This page serves as the central source for division-specific information, competition formats, registration details, prize money information, athlete policies, and important event updates. As additional information becomes available, it will be added here.
Tournament Details
- Tournament Dates: October 31 - November 8, 2026
- Location: Barnes Tennis Center | San Diego, California
- Competition Courts: 60
- Tournament Ball: Franklin X-40
- Paddle Testing: Required for all players
Open Registration
Professional athletes do not qualify through Golden Ticket Tournaments or Tournament Player Score (TPS) points.
Registration window: September 2 - 25, 2026
Acceptance into Pro events is based on APP points and/or other professional results in accordance with the USA Pickleball Pro Acceptance Criteria.
Before You Register
All Pro athletes must complete the following steps before registering:
- Have a USA Pickleball Challenger or Champion Membership valid through November 8, 2026.
- Have a DUPR account.
- Create a Pickleball Den profile.
- Link your USA Pickleball Membership and DUPR account to your Pickleball Den profile.
- Make sure your Pickleball Den profile matches your USA Pickleball Membership exactly. Here is a guide on how to link them to your profile.
Player Gift
Every registered player will receive an exclusive 2026 Oceanview USA Pickleball National Championships Player Gift at check-in, including:
- $30 value from the 2026 Nationals Merchandise Shop (commemorative item or gift card)
- Official 2026 Nationals commemorative pin
- Exclusive Nationals sticker
- Event program
- Partner gifts and sponsor giveaways
- 2026 Nationals clear tote bag
Guest Tickets
Each Pro athlete is allowed one (1) guest credential. This credential provides their guest with access to the same designated venue areas as the pro athlete, including the Pro Player Lounge. Guests should reserve their complimentary General Admission ticket online in advance or obtain one at the on-site box office. Guests credentials are redeemed at the on-site box office. Because General Admission is free, reserving in advance is recommended for the quickest and easiest entry experience.
Registration Fees
Pro Entry Fee
$250
Registration & Weather Protection
$65
optional
Pro Event Fee
$130
per event
Champion Pro Event Fee
$125
per event
Masters Pro Event Fee
$120
per event
Competition Format
Competition formats vary by division. Please review the format information below for your specific event.
Professional Division Format
Professional events will feature a 32-team single-elimination draw.
Bracket Structure
- Events will be played as single-elimination brackets.
- The top 32 teams who register will be accepted into each event.
- There are no qualifying rounds.
- Seeding will be determined using APP points.
Match Format
- Best 2-of-3 games to 11
- Win by 2 points
- Side-out scoring
Medal Matches
- Gold Medal Match: Best 2-of-3 games to 11
- Bronze Medal Match: Best 2-of-3 games to 11
- Win by 2 points
- Side-out scoring
The losing teams from the semifinal matches will compete in a Bronze Medal Match.
Progressive Draw Schedule
Professional events are expected to follow a progressive draw schedule:
- Day 1: Round of 32
- Day 2: Round of 16
- Day 3: Quarterfinals
- Day 4: Semifinals
- Day 5: Bronze and Gold Medal Matches
Events with fewer than 32 teams may operate on a modified schedule.
Champion Pro & Masters Pro Format
Champion Pro and Masters Pro events are generally scheduled to be completed within a single day.
Double-Elimination Format
Events will utilize a double-elimination format with a consolation bracket.
- Teams remain in the Winners Bracket until their first loss.
- Following a first loss, teams move to the Consolation Bracket.
- Teams are eliminated after their second loss.
- Winners Bracket finalists compete for Gold and Silver medals.
- Consolation Bracket finalists compete for the Bronze medal.
Match Scoring
Winners Bracket Matches
- Best 2-of-3 games to 11
- Win by 2 points
- Side-out scoring
Consolation Bracket Matches
- One game to 15
- Win by 2 points
- Side-out scoring
Medal Matches
- Best 2-of-3 games to 11
- Win by 2 points
- Side-out scoring
Bracket Formation
Divisions are ideally formed with eight or more teams. Divisions with fewer than eight teams may be conducted in a round robin format at the discretion of the Tournament Director.
Round Robin Play
Round robin standings will be determined by:
- Match wins
- Head-to-head results
- Point differential
- Head-to-head point differential
Tournament Operations
The Tournament Director reserves the right to modify event formats, schedules, or match structures due to weather, facility conditions, participation levels, or other unforeseen circumstances.
Prize Money
$225,000+
TOTAL PRIZE PURSE
Professional divisions will compete for prize money at the 2026 Oceanview USA Pickleball National Championships.
Important Information
- Prize money is available only in designated Professional divisions.
- Athletes are responsible for providing all required tax documentation.
- Prize money payments may be subject to applicable federal, state, and local tax requirements.
- Additional payout details will be provided prior to competition.
Paddle Testing
To support fair play and uphold equipment standards, USA Pickleball will conduct paddle testing at the 2026 Oceanview USA Pickleball National Championships. Players selected for testing must use a paddle that has passed inspection and received an official USA Pickleball approval sticker before competing.
Player Policies
To help ensure a safe, fair, and enjoyable experience for all participants, USA Pickleball has established event policies covering player conduct, competition procedures, weather-related delays, refunds, partner replacements, insurance information, and more.
Book Your Hotel
USA Pickleball has partnered with EventConnect to provide athletes, spectators, and guests with a simple way to book discounted hotel accommodations for the 2026 Oceanview USA Pickleball National Championships.
Explore a variety of hotel options, compare rates, and receive real-time support throughout the booking process. Simply create a free EventConnect account to view available hotels and make your reservation.
We recommend exploring the hotels closest to Barnes Tennis Center for the most convenient stay.
Professional Division FAQ
Need Assistance?
If you have questions regarding registration, accessibility accommodations, parking, or competition, please contact NationalsReg@usapickleball.org. Our team is committed to providing an exceptional championship experience for all athletes.