The APP Sacramento Open has been nominated for Best Pickleball Tournament for Fans in the 2026 USA TODAY Sports Readers’ Choice Awards.
Hosted annually at Johnson Ranch Sports Club in Roseville, Calif. since 2022, the APP Sacramento Open has grown into Northern California’s premier pickleball community event and a hallmark stop on the Association of Pickleball Players’ (APP) pro circuit.
Fans can cast their votes once per day at TheAPP.global/Vote until Monday, June 1 at 11:59 am ET. USA TODAY will announce the winners on Wednesday, June 10.
This year’s APP Sacramento Open Benefiting Shriners Children’s (Apr. 30–May 3) showcased the world’s best pickleball pros to a nationally televised audience while welcoming hundreds of amateur players of all ages and skill levels. Spectators joined in at the APP Pickleball Playground, featuring beginner and intermediate drills, Beat the Pro challenges, and Champ of the Court. With sponsor activations, giveaways, VIP lounges, food and drink, live music, and more, the event offered something for everyone—cementing its reputation as the place to be for pickleball fans.
“We are honored to be nominated for this award and gratified to see the APP Sacramento Open get the recognition it deserves,” said APP Founder Ken Herrmann. “We take great pride in making APP events the absolute best for all our fans, players, and sponsors, but this nomination is truly a testament to the Sacramento community and their unwavering support of the APP and our friends at Johnson Ranch.”
“As a premier pickleball destination, Johnson Ranch is proud to serve as the annual host venue for the APP Sacramento Region,” added Rich Wells, General Manager of Johnson Ranch Sports Club. “It was a great opportunity to welcome athletes and fans from around the world, and show how the fastest growing sport is gaining attention and support in Sacramento.”
The USA TODAY Sports Readers’ Choice Awards spotlight can’t‑miss experiences, events, and destinations, along with top products and recommendations. Nominees are selected by a panel of journalists and editors across the USA TODAY Network, bringing expertise and sports‑savvy insight to each category—from football and baseball to hockey and beyond.
