Korea Daily Pickleball Championship Draws Hundreds in Los Angeles
The Korea Daily Pickleball Championship drew hundreds of players and supporters in Los Angeles, marking one of the largest pickleball tournaments ever organized within the Korean American community.
The inaugural tournament, titled the “1st Korea Daily Pickleball Championship,” was held at 8 a.m. on April 18 at Choong Hyun Mission Church in Los Angeles. A total of 24 teams, comprising approximately 320 players, competed in a full day of matches.
Hosted by Korea Daily and jointly organized by Choong Hyun Mission Church and the LA Pickleball Association, the event attracted about 800 people including players, family members and spectators, creating a lively and energetic atmosphere.
Yoon-ho Nam, president of Korea Daily, said during the opening ceremony that the enthusiasm of participants had energized the courts.
“The courts are heating up with the passion of the players,” Nam said. “We hope this tournament becomes a place where people share healthy energy together. We will work even harder next year so it can grow into a signature sports festival for the Korean American community.”
Korea Daily Pickleball Championship Winners
In the Ace Division, the team “OC 002” claimed the championship title and lifted the trophy at the inaugural event.
- 1st Place: OC 002
- 2nd Place: Choong Hyun 1
- 3rd Place (tie): OC520, Team Arendale
In the Beginner Division, Beautiful Pickleball Ministry (BPM) from Beautiful Church secured the championship.
- 1st Place: Beautiful Pickleball Ministry (BPM)
- 2nd Place: Gardena Presbyterian Church
- 3rd Place (tie): GPC (Grace Pickleball Club) 2, Team Sarang Chick
Rev. Kenny Kook, senior pastor of Choong Hyun Mission Church, said the church was honored to host the event.
“It is a privilege to provide a place where so many Korean Americans can gather and enjoy sports together,” he said. “Beyond competition, we hope this tournament becomes a symbol of unity in the community and remains part of its history.”
Fast-Growing Popularity of Pickleball
Pickleball combines elements of tennis, badminton and table tennis, making it accessible to players of all ages.
According to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association, the number of pickleball participants in the United States reached 24.3 million last year, up from 19.8 million the previous year, representing a 22% increase. The sport is now widely considered the fastest-growing recreational activity nationwide.
Reflecting this accessibility, the Korea Daily Pickleball Championship welcomed participants ranging from teenagers to players in their 80s. The event also offered free beginner lessons for newcomers interested in learning the sport.
President of the Korean American Sports Council of Los Angeles, highlighted pickleball’s inclusive nature.
“One of the strengths of pickleball is that people of all ages and genders can play together and communicate through the sport,” Hur said. “We will continue promoting pickleball so Korean Americans can easily enjoy it as part of everyday recreational sports.”
Tournament Format and Community Celebration
The tournament began with preliminary league matches before advancing to a final knockout stage. Referees from the LA Pickleball Association were stationed at each court to ensure fair play.
Matches were divided into multiple categories, including men’s doubles, women’s doubles and mixed doubles, with brackets organized by age group.
Participants also enjoyed a festive community atmosphere. Prize drawings awarded a variety of gifts, including round-trip airline tickets between Los Angeles and Korea, sports equipment and health products.
Organizers said the strong turnout demonstrated the growing popularity of pickleball within the Korean American community and expressed hopes that the Korea Daily Pickleball Championship will become an annual signature sporting event.
