Japan Cup - Tokyo Dec 2024

In December 2024 we ventured on our first International Pickleball Tour to Japan with 11 extremely excited Australians from Victoria, South Australia and Queensland who embarked on the inaugural Japan Cup held at Ariake Tennis Centre Tokyo Japan.

Leading up to the tournament we toured around the main cities of Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima and had a relaxing couple of days at Hakone (Mt Fuji) to recharge in readiness for what lie ahead competing at our first international tournament.

We managed to play with and against the locals in Tokyo & Osaka before the tournament which gave us a great insight to how the Japanese play and were fortunate enough to make some lovely friendships along the way. They came and volunteered at their first tournament in Japan and cheered us on when not on duty.

With over 500 participants from all corners of Asia, USA & Australia we battled in our divisions from gender & mixed doubles in age and skills divisions competing with either our own playing group or matched up with some local Japanese participants.

A successful haul of 13 medals from Gold, Silver & Bronze and coming third on the medal tally board for countries participating was a proud achievement by the group. For a small contingent we scooped the podium and did Australia proud!

It was such a well organised, super fun tournament experience all round with a fantastic outdoor venue, coaching from the USA Pro’s – James Ignatowich and his team and a fabulous location for both quality accommodation and food/wonderful international dining options. We loved this tournament so much we aim to offer the tour again and support the Japanese Pickleball scene as it grows.