Pickleball's Biggest Party: Inside the US Open Pickleball Championships

 

Chris Evon and Terri Graham, Racquetball Legends, Bring Their Passion for Sport to the Fastest Growing Game in America Naples, Florida is the epicenter of the pickleball world this week, as the sport's brightest stars and most passionate fans converge for the annual US Open Pickleball Championships. At the heart of this spectacle are two racquetball legends, Chris Evon and Terri Graham, who have poured their hearts and souls into building this event into the premier destination for pickleball enthusiasts. With over 3,200 players competing and 45,000 spectators expected to pass through the gates, the US Open Pickleball Championships has grown into a behemoth, showcasing the meteoric rise of a sport that has captivated players of all ages and skill levels. And at the center of it all are Evon and Graham, two pioneers who have seamlessly transitioned from the world of racquetball to the booming world of pickleball. In a wide-ranging interview, the duo opens up about their journey from racquetball royalty to the architects of pickleball's biggest party, sharing their insights, their passion, and their plans for the future of this ever-evolving sport. Chris Evon and Terri Graham are no strangers to the spotlight. As legendary figures in the world of racquetball, they have spent decades honing their skills, earning accolades, and leaving an indelible mark on their sport. But when the duo set their sights on the rapidly growing game of pickleball, they knew they had a new challenge to conquer. "When we first tried pickleball, we were looking at each other like, 'Oh boy, this is slow,'" Graham recalls with a chuckle. "Compared to racquetball, it was a bit of an adjustment. But once we started playing more and really understanding the strategy, it just became addicting." That addiction has led Evon and Graham to the pinnacle of the pickleball world, as the co-founders of the US Open Pickleball Championships, a nine-year-old event that has become the sport's premier showcase. With over 3,200 players competing this year and an estimated 45,000 spectators expected to pass through the gates, the US Open has evolved into a full-fledged celebration of all things pickleball. "We didn't just want to run a tournament," Evon explains. "We wanted to create an event, a true championship experience. That's what Doug Ganam did with the racquetball US Open, and we really took a lot of inspiration from that." And they've certainly delivered on that vision. The US Open boasts a championship court with VIP suites and a party-like atmosphere, complete with food trucks, bars, and a live DJ. But the true heart of the event lies in the player village, where competitors from around the world set up tents and create a vibrant, communal atmosphere. "It's the people that we're going to miss the most," Graham says wistfully. "We've developed these incredible relationships with our volunteers, our staff, and the players themselves. It's like a big family reunion every year." Indeed, the US Open has become a must-attend event for pickleball's biggest stars, with the likes of Jessie Irvine, Callie Smith, and Zane Navratil making regular appearances. But it's the camaraderie and community spirit that sets this event apart, as players of all skill levels come together to celebrate their shared passion for the sport. "It's amazing to see the racquetball guys coming out and supporting this event," Evon muses. "Guys like Jimmy Layfield, John Kleinman, they've been here since the beginning, and it's just so cool to see them embracing pickleball and bringing their energy and enthusiasm." And that cross-pollination between the two sports is exactly what Evon and Graham hope to foster, as they believe the future of both racquetball and pickleball lies in a collaborative approach. "We need to get the industry together, whether it's racquetball or pickleball," Graham says emphatically. "The growth has been so fast that there have been some hiccups, and we've seen some of the same divisions that plagued racquetball starting to creep into pickleball. That's something we really want to caution against." Evon echoes that sentiment, arguing that the key to the longevity of both sports lies in finding common ground and building a unified front. "Racquetball players are a unique breed – they're always willing to try new things," he says. "And I think that's something pickleball can really benefit from. We need to find ways to bring those two communities together, to celebrate the passion and the shared love of sport that unites us all." As the US Open Pickleball Championships enters its final year under the leadership of Evon and Graham, the duo is focused on ensuring that their legacy lives on. They're exploring opportunities in the charitable and community-building realms, eager to leave a lasting imprint on the sport they love. "This event has been our life for the past nine years," Graham admits. "But we're ready to pass the torch and see what the next chapter holds. We're excited to see where pickleball goes from here, and we'll always be here to support it in any way we can." Summary: In this article, we delve into the captivating story of Chris Evon and Terri Graham, two legendary racquetball players who have transitioned into the world of pickleball and become the driving force behind the US Open Pickleball Championships. The event, which has grown exponentially over the past nine years, has become the premier destination for pickleball enthusiasts, boasting over 3,200 players and an estimated 45,000 spectators. Evon and Graham share their journey, from the initial adjustment to the slower pace of pickleball to their unwavering commitment to creating a truly exceptional event. They reveal their vision for the US Open, which goes beyond just a tournament and instead aims to capture the spirit and community of the sport. The article explores the vibrant player village, the party-like atmosphere, and the camaraderie that has become the hallmark of the US Open. As the duo prepares to step away from the event, they reflect on the relationships they've built and the impact they've had on the sport. They emphasize the importance of unity between the racquetball and pickleball communities, recognizing the shared passion and energy that can drive the growth and longevity of both sports. The article paints a vivid picture of the US Open Pickleball Championships, a testament to the dedication and vision of Evon and Graham. It showcases their desire to leave a lasting legacy, not just through the event itself, but also through their continued involvement in the sport's development and their commitment to fostering a collaborative, inclusive, and celebratory atmosphere for all pickleball enthusiasts.