The global COVID-19 pandemic has led to the cancellation or indefinite postponement of virtually all pickleball tournaments and organized events worldwide. The most recent of which was the beloved international competition, the Bainbridge Cup and English Open (which was to be held in Nottingham, England in July 2020), that puts on a display of talent in a match up between Team North America and Team Europe. USA Pickleball also recently suspended the sanctioning of all pickleball tournaments through April 15, 2020, and is expected to announce next week (the week of March 30, 2020) whether the suspension on sanctioning will continue beyond April 15, 2020.
With decisions being made on all organized competitive pickleball events, and with over half of the United States on stay-at-home mandates, pickleball players have had to grapple with the decision of whether to cease all recreational pickleball activities (maybe with the exception of pickleball in the house, or only with others that he or she is quarantined in the house with). In other words, is it safe to play recreational pickleball?
On March 27, 2020, USA Pickleball released a press release “implor[ing] all members, ambassadors, players and the pickleball community at-large to follow the recommendations and mandates of local health and government officials.” USA Pickleball further “encourage[d] everyone to do their part to slow the spread of the coronavirus, follow the directions of your state and local authorities, avoid social gatherings, and if possible, stay home and away from people.”
USA Pickleball even made a tough decision to cancel one of the favorite initiatives every year during the month of April – National Pickleball Month. Although April 2020 may not be National Pickleball Month, we can all continue to share our love for the sport of pickleball online and in spirit, and be ready for a worldwide pickleball celebration when the quarantine lifts.
Read the full USA Pickleball press release to learn more and to find answers on how the cancellations, suspensions, and postponements affect your tournament plans. To note, USA Pickleball and Indian Wells Tennis Garden are currently proceeding as planned for the 2020 Margaritaville USA Pickleball National Championships to be held October 31, 2020 through November 8, 2020.
