The pro category offers a total prize pool of 5 million yen—approximately $36,000!
In addition, luxurious prizes including round-trip airfare to Hawaii will be provided by our sponsors.
SPONSORS
Title Sponsor
Platinum Sponsors
Gold Sponsors
Silver Sponsors
Supported by
Tournament Vision
This tournament was created to share the joy of pickleball, foster inclusivity and cross-cultural connections, and bring a world-class competitive environment to Japan.
Following its success in 2024, PJF proudly presents the second edition!
Session for RPO
A practical examination will be conducted for those seeking to obtain the internationally recognized RPO certification.
Volunteer
Let’s make this tournament a success together!
We are currently seeking tournament volunteers, sponsors, and vendors to support the operation of this event.
As with last year, we will need the generous support of many volunteers. Players participating in the tournament are also more than welcome!
Special Events
A world top ranking pro players are coming to Japan!
Tournament Outline
Tournament Details
Schedule:
December 10 (Wed) – 13 (Sat), 2025
An event featuring top U.S. pro players will be held in the afternoon on December 9 (Tue).
Tournament Hours:
9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Emergency Contact (During Tournament Period Only):
090-6533-6557
Venue:
Ariake, Koto-ku, Tokyo
Ariake Tennis Park – 40 Outdoor Courts (see map below)
Eligibility and Match Format:
SKILL / SENIOR Divisions:
Brackets are organized by skill level and age group.
-
Format: Round-robin (each team plays all others in their bracket)
-
Minimum Matches: Each pair is guaranteed at least 3 matches
-
Match Rules: Games are played to 15 points. If tied at 14-14, a 2-point win is required.
-
Playoffs:
For brackets with 8 or more teams, the top 2 teams from each group will advance to a single-elimination playoff.
Matches will be best 2 out of 3 games to 11 points, with a 2-point win required.
※Note: Match format may be adjusted due to weather or number of participants.
Divisions:
Categories:
-
Men's Doubles
-
Women's Doubles
-
Mixed Doubles
※Skill Rating: 3.0 and above
SKILL Division (Ages: 5+"Junior", 19+, 35+)
-
Men's Doubles
-
Women's Doubles
-
Mixed Doubles
SENIOR Division (Ages: 50+, 60+, 70+)
-
Men's Doubles
-
Women's Doubles
-
Mixed Doubles
OPEN Division
-
Men's Doubles
-
Women's Doubles
-
Mixed Doubles
Double Elimination
※Skill rating 4.0 and above (3.5 and above for women's doubles only)
Brackets:
Age Groups:
5+"Junior", 19+, 35+, 50+, 60+, 70+
Skill Ratings:
3.0, 3.5, 4.0, 4.5, 5.0+
*Skill ratings are based on DUPR.
(Self-reported ratings are no longer accepted.)
Tournament Schedule:
Note: Senior matches are now divided by level and scheduled on separate days, allowing players to register for both the Senior SKILL and the OPEN (=PRO) categories.
Referees:
-
Exhibition Matches: Official referees
-
Medal Matches: Official or volunteer referees
-
Other Matches: Volunteer referees or self-officiated
In self-officiated matches, a court keeper will be present.
Official Ball:
DIADEM Official Outdoor Pickleball
Selection Method:
First-come, first-served basis
Awards:
Gold, Silver, and Bronze medals will be awarded in each bracket.
Registration Fee:
$75
Includes:
-
Tournament registration fee
-
Official tournament T-shirt
-
Yakult Quick Charge
-
Yakult 1000
-
Software usage fee (https://pickleballtournaments.com)
-
Consumption tax, credit card fees, etc.
Bracket Fee:
-
PROS: $50 per event
-
Others: $20 per event
Registration Period:
July 25 (Fri) 8 P.M. – September 27 (Sat) 5 P.M.
Cancellation Policy:
* After September 25: 25% of the fee will be refunded
* After October 25: 50% refunded
* After November 25: no refunds (100% non-refundable)
* In addition, credit card processing fees, currency exchange differences, and Pickleball Brackets platform service fees will be deducted separately.
Weather:
In Ariake, Tokyo, the average temperature in December ranges from a low of 5°C to a high of 13°C.
Precipitation is among the lowest of the year, typically under 1.5 mm.
On sunny days, the weather is dry and comfortable.
Warm clothing such as heavy down jackets or fleece is recommended during matches or while waiting.
The venue includes indoor waiting areas, locker rooms, and restrooms with showers.
In case of bad weather, match schedules may be adjusted as needed.
Night matches or indoor courts (with the same surface as outdoor courts) may be used depending on availability.
※No refunds will be issued due to weather or schedule changes.
Important Notes:
-
This tournament is subject to change depending on participant numbers, social conditions, or other unavoidable circumstances.
-
First aid will be provided in case of injury or accidents during play, but the organizers and venue will not be held responsible for any further issues.
-
The organizers and venue are not liable for any injuries, accidents, or theft that may occur.
-
Participants are fully responsible for any damage caused to the venue, other players, or third parties due to their own negligence.
-
The rights to publish images, videos, articles, and records of the tournament on websites or other media belong to the organizer.
-
This tournament is covered by recreational insurance.
-
Medical staff and trainers will be on-site at all times, thanks to the special sponsorship of Hōyūkai Medical Corporation.
-
All players will be treated fairly and equally.
※Please note: The above information is subject to change.
Dedicated inquiries about this tournament: ariake@pickleball-japan.org
Organizer & Operator:
Pickleball Japan Federation (PJF)
Chairperson: Yuko Hayashi
Tournament Director: Rika Riordan
Tournament Operations Director: Mike Hoxie
Head Referee: Howard Hepworth
Executive Secretary: Yuki Tanaka
Tournament Operations Support: Koki Sugimoto
Volunteer Coordinators: Aiko Sakuma (Japan), Naoko Mahotsuki (International)
Media Coordinator: Chiharu Hachiya Lorenzoni
Sponsored by:
Title Sponsor:
ZIPAIR
Daiwa Securities Group
Platinum Sponsors:
JOOLA
Burger King
Gold Sponsors:
DIADEM
Yakult
Relive
Silver Sponsors:
Le Coq Sportif
Aflac
Tournament Supporters：
Yobi Paddle
Special Offer
How to Apply
Application Process
Video tutorial
This video manual is spoken in Japanese, but you can set the subtitles to show English.
Step1
Step3
If this is your first time registering for a tournament through the PJF, please start by completing “New Member Registration” and paying the annual membership fee from the link below.
Step2
Step3
For existing PJF members
If you are already a member and have paid the annual membership fee but have not yet registered on the PJF Member Site, please complete your member registration using the steps below.
How to Complete Free Registration
If you meet any of the conditions below, you should have received an email from the PJF Office containing a coupon code for free registration:
-
You participated in any tournament between the December 2024 Ariake Tournament and the July 2025 Burger King Tournament
-
You have taken any course such as Ambassador, RPO Coach, or Academy from 2024 onward
① Please register on the PJF Member Site
Even if you have already paid the annual membership fee, if you haven’t registered on the PJF Member Site, you will need to set a password.
Please click “Login” at the top right of the screen to begin registration.
※Please note that payment alone does not complete the member site registration. Make sure to log in and finish the registration process.
② Set your password and log in
On the registration page, set your password using the email address you registered with PJF.
After setting your password, please log in.
③ Enter the coupon code and complete the free registration
Please enter the coupon code you received by email and complete the free payment process. This will complete your free registration.
Step3
After completing your PJF membership registration and annual fee payment, please apply for the tournament via Pickleball Brackets using the button below.
Please log in to pickleballbrackets.com to check the courts and results, as the PJF website and Pickelballbrackets.com are separate systems, If you do not have a Pickelballbrackets account yet, please “Sign Up” and register for the tournament.
Tournament Schedule
Schedule
Please check in at least 30 minutes before your scheduled match!
Check-in Time:
-
Players in the first match of the day must check in at 8:30 AM at Guest Services.
-
All other players should check in at the main tournament desk.
Check-in must be done in person by the player themselves.
Day 0: Tuesday, December 9
① Pro Clinic Scheduled
Train with world top 5 ranked pros!
A perfect opportunity to fine-tune your skills before the tournament!
② Practical Session for RPO International Certification Scheduled
Day 1: Wednesday, December 10
8:30 – Check-in opens for players with a 9:00 match @ Guest Check-in9:00–13:30 – General player check-in @ Main Tournament Desk
9:00– Matches begin
Day 2: Thursday, December 11
8:30 – Check-in opens for players with a 9:00 match @ Guest Check-in9:00–13:30 – General player check-in @ Main Tournament Desk
9:00– Matches begin
Day 3: Friday, December 12
8:30 – Check-in opens for players with a 9:00 match @ Guest Check-in9:00–13:30 – General player check-in @ Main Tournament Desk
9:00– Matches begin
Day 4: Saturday, December 13
8:30 – Check-in opens for players with a 9:00 match @ Guest Check-in9:00–13:30 – General player check-in @ Main Tournament Desk
9:00– Matches begin
AFTER: Sunday, December 14
APG Pickleball Games 2025 (Asia Nations Team Competition)
Note: Schedule is subject to change due to weather or other conditions.
Please make sure to log in to Pickleball Brackets and check your own match schedule and times.
The above information is subject to change.
Special Event
PPA Top Pros Special Event
Top PPA professionals James Ignatowich, Ryan Fu, Parris Todd and Vivian Glosman are coming to Ariake this year!
To celebrate their visit, we’ve organized the following clinics and exchange events.
1. Clinics
Each 2-hour session features 4 top pros on 4 courts, offering level-based instruction.
Every participant will have guaranteed rally time directly with the pros.
Fee: $150 per person
Register here;
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1AP5dKPR4PVSZh2cT17uJEhV1N9OXBH4mEgyr8kIcTvk/edit
Pay here;
https://buy.stripe.com/7sY3cv3Z88aKfLE3rt53O0t
Schedule:
-
Dec 9 (Tue) 10:30–12:30 — Clinic 9A
-
Dec 9 (Tue) 13:00–15:00 — Clinic 9B
-
Dec 9 (Tue) 15:30–17:30 — Clinic 9C
-
Dec 10 (Wed) 10:00–12:00 — Clinic 10D
2. Challenge the Pros
A fun event with the pros!
Two courts will feature two pros each. Challengers will play doubles-style points against them.
Each match is a race to 4 points — challengers can register as a pair or individually (4 points total per pair rally points).
Those who score the most points will win amazing prizes!
Ticket: $20 (each player 4points)
Register here;
Pay here;
https://buy.stripe.com/3cIbJ12V4bmWeHAe6753O0v
Prizes:
🏆 1st Place: One-night stay for 2 at Ohana (Yanagawa Han-shu Tachibana Residence)
Experience “living history” in Japan’s only nationally designated scenic site where you can stay overnight.
👉 https://ohana.co.jp/en/
🥈 2nd Place: One-night stay for 2 at Rusutsu Resort (Hokkaido)
Famous luxury ski resort now featuring pickleball courts during the non-ski season.
👉 https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/ctswi-the-westin-rusutsu-resort/overview/
🥉 3rd Place: 10 RPM paddles by James Ignatowich (PPA Top Pro) — signed
👉 https://rpmpb.com/
🎖 4th Place: 10 Joola paddles signed by Vivian Glosman (Team Joola, PPA Top Pro)
👉 https://joola.com/
🎁 5th Place: Airways sunglasses and more!
Ticket: $20 per entry (4 rally points per doubles team)
You can purchase multiple tickets.
Schedule:
-
Dec 10 (Wed): A 14:00–15:00 / B 15:30–16:30
-
Dec 11 (Thu): C 9:30–10:30 / D 11:00–12:00 / E 13:00–14:00 / F 14:30–15:30
3. Exhibition Match by PPA Top Pros
Match combinations will be announced later.
Dec 11 (Thu) 16:00–17:00
4. Reception
Following the Exhibition Match — starting at 17:00 on Dec 11, held around the cafeteria, courtside, and lawn area.
Further details to be announced soon.
Rules and Format
Tournament Rules
a. Unless otherwise specified, all matches will follow the rules outlined in the USA Pickleball (USAP) 2024 Official Rulebook.
b. Players may only use paddles that are approved by UPA and USAP.
c. Referees will randomly check paddles at the start of a match and whenever a player switches paddles.
d. The official tournament ball is the Diadem Premier Power Pickleball (Neon Yellow), approved by USAP.
Please avoid wearing clothing of the same color.
e. All matches will follow USAP scoring rules, where points may only be won by the serving team.
Tournament Format
-
Skill and Senior Divisions:
Round-robin format
(One game to 11 points) -
Pro Division:
Double-elimination format
(Best of 3 games)
Please note that match formats may change depending on final bracket sizes, weather conditions, or other factors.
Medals & Prizes
-
Gold, Silver, and Bronze medals will be awarded in all divisions.
Medals will be presented at the podium next to the main tournament desk. -
In the Pro Division (Men’s Doubles, Women’s Doubles, and Mixed Doubles), cash prizes will be awarded.
Important Notes
1) Announcements Regarding Cancellations or Schedule Changes Due to Rain Updates will be posted on the official website by 5:00 AM on the day of the event (only if there are cancellations or changes). 2) Late Arrival to the Court If a team has not gathered at the court by the scheduled match start time: An announcement will be made after 2 minutes. If the team is still not present after 5 minutes, the court keeper will declare a forfeit. 3) Match Format Round Robin: (Group round-robin format) One set to 11 or 15 points. If the score reaches 10–10 (or 14–14), play continues until a 2-point margin is achieved. Each team may take two 1-minute timeouts per match. Open Category Only: Double Elimination (with consolation bracket) Best of 3 sets, each to 11 points. If tied 10–10, a 2-point lead is required to win the set. Each team may take one 1-minute timeout per set. 4) Self-Officiated Matches Matches are self-officiated by default. If any issues arise, the court keeper will call a referee to resolve the situation. Chief Referee: Mr. Howard Hepworth (A Level 3 professional referee who has officiated PPA finals) 5) Medical Timeout If a player is injured, the court keeper will call medical staff, who will determine whether a timeout is warranted. If approved, only one medical timeout of up to 15 minutes is permitted. 6) Post-Match Procedure After the match, a representative from each team must sign the score sheet, and the winning team is responsible for bringing the basket to the main tournament desk to report the result. 7) Support for Players with Hearing Impairments 7-1. Scorecards will be provided on the court. 7-2. Before each match, the court keeper will remind opponents to use hand signals for all "in" or "out" calls and for indicating the score. 7-3. A volunteer with a whiteboard will be on standby to assist if written communication is needed during the match.
Key Information
a. The tournament organizers reserve the right to amend rules, regulations, and match schedules as necessary. All decisions made in this regard shall be final. b. All players must check in at the tournament desk at least 30 minutes prior to their scheduled matches. c. If a player fails to arrive at the assigned court within 5 minutes of the announced match start time, the match will be considered a forfeit. d. In matches without a referee, the server (or their partner) must call out the score, and the opposing team must repeat the score. Use of hand signals is permitted. e. The duration of a medical timeout is limited to 15 minutes. f. Injury or Withdrawal: In the case of an injury, a player may choose to forfeit the match. The score at the time of withdrawal will remain, and the opponent will be awarded the maximum possible points. If the player's condition improves, they may be allowed to participate in the remaining scheduled matches. g. Protests: All protests must be submitted in writing to the Tournament Committee on the same day, along with a protest fee of USD $100.00. Protests submitted after the day of the match will not be accepted. h. Media Rights: PJF and its official representatives reserve the right to photograph and video record all activities during the tournament. These materials may be used for promotional and educational purposes to support the growth of pickleball. i. Photography Rules: General and personal photo/video recording is prohibited during the tournament. However, personal, non-commercial photography is permitted. The organizer does not guarantee the protection of individual privacy. If you photograph others, you do so at your own risk. All personal media (photos/videos) that include other individuals are the sole responsibility of the person taking them. The organizer accepts no responsibility for individual behavior or actions. j. Disclaimer of Liability – Safety and Damages: PJF members, captains, organizers, and their representatives are not responsible for any safety incidents, injuries, or damages occurring during the tournament or on the premises. This includes but is not limited to accidents, injuries, losses, or damages resulting from unforeseeable circumstances, actions by others, or other conditions. We strongly recommend that participants obtain adequate insurance for emergencies. This disclaimer is intended to clarify responsibilities and does not limit the organizer’s efforts to maintain a safe and comfortable environment.
Venue
Describe your image
Describe your image
Describe your image
Describe your image
World-Class Venue
A premier facility in Japan that hosted the Tokyo Olympics and international tennis tournaments
Venue:
Ariake Tennis Forest Park
Address: 2-2-22 Ariake, Koto-ku, Tokyo
Access:
-
8-minute walk from Kokusai-Tenjijo Station (Rinkai Line)
-
8-minute walk from Ariake Station and Ariake Tennis-no-Mori Station (Yurikamome Line)
Skill Rating
USAPA Rating Guidelines
3.0
Forehand:
Able to hit medium-paced shots but lacks direction and consistency.
Backhand:
Tends to avoid backhand shots. Lacks direction and consistency.
Serve/Return:
Able to hit medium-paced shots but lacks depth, direction, and consistency.
Dink:
Unable to sustain dink rallies consistently. Control over this shot is still developing.
Third Shot:
Generally hits medium-paced balls with little direction.
Volley:
Able to hit medium-paced shots but lacks direction and consistency.
Strategy:
Understands the basics and is learning proper court positioning. Knows fundamental rules, can keep score, and is currently playing in tournaments.
3.5
Forehand:
Stroke development has improved, and shot control is moderately consistent.
Backhand:
Learning proper stroke form and beginning to develop consistency, but still avoids it when possible.
Serve / Return:
Consistently incorporates serve and return into play, but has limited ability to control depth.
Dink:
Consistency has improved, with limited ability to control height and depth. Can sustain medium-length rallies and is beginning to understand changes in speed.
Third Shot:
Developing drop shots to approach the net.
Volley:
Able to volley medium-paced shots, improving control.
Strategy:
Quickly moves into the Non-Volley Zone (NVZ) when the opportunity arises. Recognizes the difference between hard and soft games and begins to vary play during recreational and tournament matches. Can maintain short rallies.
Learning proper court positioning. Has basic knowledge of stacking and understands when it is effective.
4.0
Forehand:
Consistently hits with depth and control. Still working on perfecting shot selection and timing.
Backhand:
Improved stroke mechanics and achieving moderate success by consistently using the backhand.
Serve / Return:
Accurately executes most serves and returns with varying depths and speeds.
Dink:
Improved consistency with moderate ability to control height and depth. Occasionally ends dink rallies prematurely due to lack of patience. Beginning to recognize the difference between attackable and non-attackable balls.
Third Shot:
Selectively mixes soft and power shots to create advantageous situations, but results are inconsistent.
Volley:
Able to volley shots at various speeds. Developing consistency and control. Beginning to understand block and reset volleys.
Faq
FAQ
Registration – Categories
Q:
Can I enter both Mixed Open and Mixed Skill categories?
A:
You may not enter two events on the same day, but you can register for events on different days.
Registration – Cancellations
Q:
Will there be a cancellation fee if it rains?
A:
In principle, the tournament may be extended until Monday in case of rain.
Refunds will not be issued unless the entire event is canceled.
We recommend booking your return flight with flexibility in schedule.
Registration – Divisions
Q:
I don’t really understand the difference between Senior and Skill divisions. Could you explain?
A:
In pickleball tournaments, divisions are generally categorized by age or skill level.
-
Senior Division: Based on age (e.g., 55+, 65+).
Designed so players can compete with others in a similar age group. -
Skill Division: Based on skill level regardless of age, typically between 5–54 years old.
Skill levels are determined by self-assessment, past results, or official rating systems.
Matches are more balanced and competitive within the same skill level.
Registration – Partners
Q:
When registering, can one player register both themselves and their partner?
A:
No. As this system is based in the U.S., each player must create their own account using their own email address.
Payments must be made separately.
When the second player registers, they can select their partner’s name from the system.
Registration – Partner Search
Q:
How can I contact someone who is listed as “Needs Partner”?
A:
On the U.S. tournament system, click the “Find a Partner” button on the event page.
You’ll see a list of players, and under the desired player’s name, there will be a [Send Partner Request] button.
Click it to send a direct message.
Registration – No Partner at Time of Entry
Q:
If I register without a partner, can I still join and find someone later?
A:
Yes. On the bracket registration screen, select the appropriate bracket and on the next page, check “I NEED” under the “Partner?” section.
This will display your name in the “Find a Partner” list, allowing others to contact you — and you can search and contact others yourself through the system.
Registration – Age
Q:
If I want to play Mixed Doubles with my 8-year-old son, which division should I enter as a 40-year-old?
A:
The age division is based on the younger partner’s age, and the skill division is based on the higher-rated player.
In this case, you would register in the 5+ age group, matching your son’s age, and under the higher skill rating between the two.
Registration – Senior Eligibility
Q:
One partner is 49 and the other is 54. Can we still enter the 50+ division?
A:
Yes, if either player turns 50 at any time during 2025, the team is eligible to compete in the 50+ division, even if one partner is 49 at the time of registration.
Registration – Fees
Q:
If we're entering as a doubles team, do we each have to pay a registration fee?
A:
Yes. Each player must register and pay separately.
Payment – Methods
Q:
Can I pay by bank transfer?
A:
Unfortunately, only credit card payments are accepted, as the system is U.S.-based. We apologize for the inconvenience and appreciate your understanding.