Copyright timesnownews
The Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) has unveiled a new tournament for 2026, announcing the Greater Zion Cup at Black Desert Resort in Southern Utah, USA. To execute the tournament, the PPA has partnered with Greater Zion. The tournament will be one of only five Cup events on the Carvana PPA Tour, making it a key stop for top professional pickleball players and fans from across the globe. The tournament will offer 1,500 ranking points, higher than the 1,000 typically awarded at Open events, making it a high-stakes competition for professionals aiming to rise in global rankings. The event will coincide with the debut of 21 state-of-the-art pickleball courts at Black Desert Resort, scheduled to open in Spring 2026. The courts, designed by Swabeck Architecture, will be nestled among Southern Utah’s striking red rocks and lava fields, offering an immersive playing experience. The expansion includes a Championship Court with 1,000 spectator seats, with future phases set to add eight additional courts. Equipped with advanced technology for ball tracking, swing analysis, and movement assessment, the courts will also feature VIP seating. “Southern Utah is a very special place for the Carvana PPA Tour, and we are thrilled to bring our signature area tournament to Black Desert Resort for the Greater Zion Cup,” said Connor Pardoe, Founder and CEO of the Carvana PPA Tour. Calling the event a milestone moment for the region, Brittany McMichael, Director of Greater Zion, added, “The new facility will be a world-class venue in one of the most breathtaking settings, making it the ideal home for this event.” The partnership will further strengthen Black Desert Resort’s growing reputation as a premier destination for luxury hospitality, golf, and now, world-class pickleball.
