Sun, Sweat & Smashes: The 2025 Minto US Open Pickleball Championships Deliver High Drama in Naples

The 2025 Minto US Open Pickleball Championships transformed East Naples Community Park into the epicenter of America’s fastest-growing sport once again. With thousands of enthusiastic fans flooding the bleachers and walkways, this electrifying event brought together seasoned legends, rising stars, and unforgettable matchups under the sweltering Florida sun. Championship Saturday, the crescendo of a weeklong celebration of grit and community, proved once again why Naples has rightfully earned its title as the Pickleball Capital of the World.

AGASSI MAKES HIS PRO DEBUT WITH ANNA LEIGH WATERS

In a highly anticipated debut, tennis legend Andre Agassi teamed up with 18-year-old phenom Anna Leigh Waters at the 2025 Minto U.S. Open Pickleball Championships. Their mixed pro division match against the youthful duo of 13-year-old Stevie Petropouleas and 16-year-old Tristan Dussault was a thrilling contest that had spectators on the edge of their seats.

Agassi and Waters secured a hard-fought victory with scores of 11-8, 9-11, 11-7. The match was a testament to the intergenerational appeal of pickleball, with Agassi’s seasoned expertise complementing Waters’ youthful energy and skill. Despite their initial triumph, Agassi and Waters’ journey in the tournament concluded in the subsequent round. They faced the formidable pair of Trang Huynh-McClain and Len Yang, where their run came to an end.

Nonetheless, Agassi’s foray into professional pickleball was met with tremendous enthusiasm, both from fans and the broader pickleball community. His participation not only underscored the sport’s growing appeal but also bridged the gap between tennis and pickleball enthusiasts. Many spectators were thrilled to see a tennis icon embracing pickleball, further legitimizing the sport’s status in the world of racquet sports.

For those unfamiliar with pickleball, Agassi’s participation offers an interesting perspective. Pickleball, often described as a mix of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, has been gaining popularity rapidly across all age groups. The fact that a tennis legend like Agassi has taken up the sport professionally speaks volumes about its accessibility and appeal to athletes from various backgrounds.

Meanwhile, Anna Leigh Waters continued to demonstrate her dominance in the sport, further solidifying her status as a leading figure in the pickleball world. At just 18 years old, Waters has already become a household name in pickleball circles, known for her exceptional skill, strategic gameplay, and ability to compete at the highest level across multiple categories.

YOUNG GUNS TAKE THE SPOTLIGHT IN MEN’S DOUBLES

When Jack Munro and Len Yang stepped onto the court for the Men’s Pro Doubles final, it was clear that the next generation of pickleball had arrived. Both just 21 years old, Munro and Yang took on the seasoned pairing of Ryler DeHeart and Richard Livornese in a matchup that felt more like a heavyweight bout than a weekend tournament.

The first game had fans gasping with every point. DeHeart and Livornese mounted a furious rally after falling behind 9-3, eventually forcing the game to a nerve-wracking 14-12 finish that Munro and Yang narrowly claimed. The second game showcased why Munro is so highly regarded in the pickleball community, with his exceptional shot placement and strategic play helping the young duo secure their victory.

“I have to thank Jack a lot,” said a visibly emotional Yang, who credited Munro not just for the win, but for giving him his start in pro pickleball. “He took a chance on me.” This moment of vulnerability and gratitude highlighted the strong bonds formed within the pickleball community, even among competitors.

For DeHeart and Livornese, the loss was bittersweet, but their rally from behind gave the crowd every ounce of drama it could ask for. “It always helps when your partner’s eyes are unreal,” Livornese said of DeHeart, showcasing the respect and camaraderie between players. “I really enjoyed being here.”

This match exemplified the changing landscape of professional pickleball, with young players like Munro and Yang challenging and often surpassing more experienced competitors. Their victory signaled a potential changing of the guard in men’s doubles, promising exciting developments for the future of the sport.

WATERS RISE AGAIN IN WOMEN’S DOUBLES

There’s a unique magic to watching Anna Leigh Waters and her mother, Leigh, take the court together—an energy that’s both familial and ferocious. The dynamic duo defended their title in commanding fashion, breezing past Megan Fudge and Jillian Braverman in straight games: 11-0, 11-4.

At just 18, Anna Leigh already carries herself like a seasoned champion. Her poise, paired with Leigh’s strategic shot placement, created a wave that Braverman and Fudge simply couldn’t withstand. The mother-daughter team’s chemistry was palpable, their movements on the court almost telepathic as they anticipated each other’s plays and covered the court with remarkable efficiency.

This win was also a bit of redemption for Anna Leigh, who fell short earlier in the tournament while playing mixed doubles alongside tennis icon Andre Agassi. But Saturday was a reminder: when she’s with Mom, the Waters can’t be stopped. Their dominant performance showcased not just their individual talents, but the strength of their partnership both on and off the court.

For newcomers to pickleball, the Waters’ success story is particularly inspiring. It demonstrates how the sport can bring families together, allowing different generations to compete side by side at the highest level. Their victory also highlights the unique aspect of pickleball that allows for such intergenerational play, a feature that sets it apart from many other competitive sports.

MUNRO AND FUDGE GO FOR DOUBLE GOLD

In a tournament brimming with standout performances, few shone brighter than Jack Munro and Megan Fudge. Hours after their respective wins in other divisions, the duo came together to capture Mixed Pro Doubles gold with a steady, composed victory over Riley Bohnert and Richard Livornese.

“I’m just here for the ride,” Munro joked afterward, displaying the humility that has made him a fan favorite. “I’m just serving and returning, and she’s doing everything else.” This self-deprecating humor belied the crucial role Munro played in their victory, with his powerful serves and strategic returns setting up many of their winning points.

Fudge was indeed sensational all day, and this win cemented her as one of the weekend’s biggest stars. The chemistry between her and Munro was palpable—not just in their play, but in their easy smiles and appreciation for the crowd, who roared with approval throughout the match. Their victory showcased the importance of partnership and complementary skills in mixed doubles, with each player’s strengths compensating for the other’s weaknesses.

For those new to pickleball, mixed doubles offers a unique dynamic where male and female players compete together, requiring a balance of power, finesse, and strategy. Munro and Fudge’s performance exemplified how effective communication and teamwork can lead to success in this format.

QUEEN FUDGE RULES SINGLES COURT

The day’s most complete performance may have belonged to Megan Fudge, who dismantled Bobbi Oshiro in the Women’s Pro Singles final with surgical precision. Winning 11-4, 11-7, Fudge stayed calm, composed, and utterly focused, navigating the court like a grandmaster on a chessboard.

“I just feel like I’m playing chess out there,” Fudge said, praising her coach for morning game plans that helped her adapt to each opponent. This strategic approach to the game highlighted the mental aspect of pickleball, often overlooked by casual observers but crucial at the professional level.

The match’s rally sequences showed Fudge’s dominance not just in skill but in stamina—her relentless pace and ability to wear down Oshiro in the Naples heat gave her an edge that was impossible to overcome. Fudge’s performance was a masterclass in singles play, demonstrating the importance of physical conditioning, mental toughness, and tactical awareness in pickleball.

For those unfamiliar with pickleball singles, it’s a grueling test of individual skill and endurance. Unlike doubles, where players can rely on a partner to cover part of the court, singles requires constant movement and quick decision-making. Fudge’s victory showcased the highest level of individual play in the sport.

HAWORTH’S REDEMPTION IN MEN’S SINGLES

For Chris Haworth, the Men’s Pro Singles final wasn’t just another match—it was personal. After losing in last year’s title match, Haworth returned with purpose and poise, defeating Grayson Goldin 11-3, 11-6 to secure his first US Open gold.

“This time, I wasn’t going to leave it to chance,” Haworth said. “I wanted to put on a show for you guys.” And he did. Using aggressive court positioning and exploiting Goldin’s occasional net play errors, Haworth turned their deep familiarity—having played each other six times this year—into a tactical advantage.

The two, who also play as doubles partners, shared a warm moment post-match. “We warmed up together this morning,” Haworth noted. “We know each other’s games inside and out. It can always go either way.” This sportmanship and mutual respect, even in the face of fierce competition, is a hallmark of the pickleball community.

Haworth’s victory story is one of perseverance and growth, demonstrating how players can learn from past defeats to come back stronger. For newcomers to the sport, it’s a reminder that pickleball, like any competitive endeavor, requires dedication, continuous improvement, and the ability to bounce back from setbacks.

PICKLEBALL’S WOODSTOCK? MAYBE BETTER

Beyond the medals and milestones, what makes the US Open in Naples so special is the vibe. East Naples Community Park transforms into a vibrant festival—families grilling burgers in the parking lot, kids getting autographs from pros, live music echoing through palm-lined walkways, and thousands of spectators who are just as passionate about the sport as the players themselves.

Vendors lined the park, offering everything from the newest paddle tech to local eats and ice-cold refreshments—a necessity in the relentless Florida sun. The Pickleball Fan Village was buzzing all week, as visitors from across the U.S. and beyond soaked in the sport’s infectious energy.

It’s more than just a tournament. It’s a celebration of community, athleticism, and the joyful chaos that is pickleball. If there was any lingering doubt about the sport’s staying power, this weekend in Naples squashed it with every volley.

For those new to pickleball, events like the US Open offer a perfect introduction to the sport’s culture. The accessibility of the players, the friendly atmosphere, and the mix of competitive spirit and community feel make it an inviting environment for newcomers and seasoned players alike.

FINAL THOUGHTS

From rising stars like Len Yang to established queens like Anna Leigh Waters and Megan Fudge, the 2025 Minto US Open Pickleball Championships offered something for everyone—a dazzling blend of competition, camaraderie, and culture.

Pickleball may still be young compared to other sports, but in Naples this week, it felt every bit like a grand slam. The tournament showcased the sport’s rapid evolution, from the increasing skill level of top players to the growing sophistication of strategies and equipment.

For those who have yet to experience pickleball, the US Open serves as a compelling invitation. It demonstrates that pickleball is not just a casual pastime, but a serious sport capable of producing world-class athletes and thrilling competitions. At the same time, it retains an accessibility and community spirit that sets it apart from many other professional sports.

As pickleball continues to grow in popularity, events like the US Open will likely play an increasingly important role in shaping the sport’s future. They serve as a platform for top talent, a meeting ground for the pickleball community, and a showcase for the sport’s unique blend of athleticism, strategy, and fun.

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a curious newcomer, the message from Naples is clear: pickleball is here to stay, and its future looks brighter than ever. The 2025 Minto US Open Pickleball Championships have set a new standard for the sport, leaving fans eagerly anticipating what next year’s tournament might bring.