SWFL.io - Local NewsEAST NAPLES, Fla. (WINK)—The Franklin U.S. Open Pickleball Championships is marking its 10th anniversary, bringing together thousands of athletes and fans from around the globe.
The energy at the National Pickleball Center is electric as the biggest pickleball party in the world celebrates a major milestone. From the pop of paddles to the roar of the crowd, this is much more than just a tournament.
For some, like Fort Myers' own Ronan Camron, this moment has been years in the making. The natural athlete has a background in baseball, soccer, and triathlons.
"My grandparents got me into it right around COVID," Camron said. "I started to practice around late 2018, early 2019, and one thing led to another.”
That one thing turned into a world tour. Camron said the sport has taken him far beyond what he ever expected.
"I've been able to go to India, Malaysia, England, just a bunch of awesome places to play some pickleball," Camron said. "And it's awesome to see where it's taken me."
Now he's back home, competing on center court during the 10th anniversary of the sport's premier event. Camron said he's excited to get back out there with a big match coming up.
"I actually didn't see myself playing pickleball at the highest level," Camron said.
But it's not just the players feeling the excitement. Fans from across the country are discovering the magic of this event, some for the very first time.
Susan and Russ Hilden, snowbirds visiting Florida, said they always wanted to watch professional pickleball players compete. They said the facility is gorgeous and they're glad they could finally attend.
The U.S. Open Pickleball Championships continues to bring people together, uniting communities one match at a time.