In a landmark move, the inaugural Skechers First Philippine Pickleball Amateur Nationals has been designated as an official Golden Ticket Qualifier for the EPIC World Championship, set to take place in Singapore from April 30 to May 3, 2026.
The tournament, currently underway at Tela Park Pickleball Center in Las Pinas City, began on March 28 and is set to conclude on March 30, bringing together amateur players from across the Philippines to compete for national honors and a chance to qualify for one of the biggest international amateur pickleball events.
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Organized by the Philippine Pickleball Federation (PPF), the event marks the first-ever Amateur Nationals in the country and reflects the federation’s push to establish a more structured and competitive pathway for players across the categories.
Division winners at the tournament will earn direct qualification for the EPIC World Championship, which features a $50,000 guaranteed prize pool for amateur players and is expected to attract top amateur players from around the world.
For players, the Golden Ticket opportunity represents more than just qualification. It offers a clear progression route from domestic competition to the global stage, providing valuable exposure and the chance to compete against higher-level international talent. The pathway is expected to boost motivation among amateur players while raising the overall competitive standard within the country.
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The initiative also signals growing integration between Asian pickleball circuits and global events, with cross-border opportunities becoming increasingly common.
With participation rising rapidly across Asia, the region continues to play a central role in the sport’s expansion. The Philippines, in particular, has emerged as a key growth market, with the PPF driving development through structured tournaments and international collaborations such as the EPIC qualification pathway.
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(Written by Evince Das)
