Opelika to Welcome Prestigious Pickleball Event

Opelika is set to welcome one of the most prestigious amateur pickleball tournaments in the country as the USA Pickleball Golden Ticket series comes to the Opelika Pickleball Facility March 11-15, 2026. This national-level tournament offers amateur players a direct pathway to the sport's premier event, the USA Pickleball National Championships. 
 

Hosting a Golden Ticket event places Opelika among an elite group of destinations across the country, such as Las Vegas, San Diego and Colorado Springs. Each destination is recognized for its first-class pickleball facilities and ability to host large-scale, high-level competitions. The Opelika Pickleball Facility, located at the Opelika Sportsplex, is one of the premier pickleball complexes in the region, making it the perfect backdrop for this high-profile event. 
 

"This tournament continues to put Opelika on the national stage in sports tourism," said Anthony Terling, sports development director for Auburn-Opelika Tourism. "It achieves a longstanding goal for Auburn-Opelika Tourism and the City of Opelika, bringing the national governing body of the sport to our destination." 
 

This major tournament is expected to draw amateur players, families and fans from across the nation, generating a significant amount of net new dollars in the local economy and further establishing Opelika as a premier pickleball destination. Local businesses and community partners will also have the opportunity to support the event and showcase Opelika to visiting athletes and spectators. 
 

“Hosting a USA Pickleball Golden Ticket tournament in Opelika confirms something people here have known for a long time: Opelika is among the elite pickleball destinations in our nation,” said Opelika Mayor Eddie Smith.“This tournament is not only an opportunity to bring visitors to our city and impact our local economy but also allows our locals to compete at a national level.”
 

For more information about the USA Pickleball Golden Ticket series, visit usapickleball.org.
 

For more information about Auburn-Opelika Tourism, contact Travis Harrison at 334-644-6711 or travis@aotourism.com.