International Pickleball Events Seniors Should Know About

As pickleball spreads across the globe, so do the events — and not just in the U.S. anymore. From casual round robins in coastal towns to international championships in Europe and Asia, there are more opportunities than ever for senior players to participate, spectate, or simply soak up the community atmosphere.

Whether you want to play competitively, meet players from other countries, or plan a travel adventure around the sport you love, this post will guide you through the top international pickleball events seniors should have on their radar.

Why Attend an International Pickleball Event?

You don’t have to be a tournament player to enjoy these gatherings. Many events include:

• Social divisions or 50+ and 60+ brackets and sometimes even more
• Skills clinics, beginner sessions, and open play areas
• Pickleball ‘festivals’ (especially in the UK) where you can come and play for up to 10 hours and have the option of come competitive play if you want.
• Vendor expos and demo courts for trying new paddles
• Cultural events, meals, and tours tied into the host location
• Opportunities to meet new people, share stories, and build international friendships

For seniors, these events offer the best of both worlds: meaningful play and enriching travel.

1. Spanish Open – Madrid, Spain

Held annually in Madrid, the Spanish Open has become one of Europe’s premier pickleball events, welcoming players from across the continent — and plenty from North America. The tournament includes age-based brackets, with strong representation in the 50+ and 60+ divisions.

What makes it special for seniors is the social atmosphere and cultural immersion. Many players combine the event with sightseeing in Spain or nearby Portugal.

Bonus: Clinics are often offered in English and Spanish, making it accessible to international visitors.

2. Asia Pickleball Open – Phuket, Thailand

This event has quickly gained a reputation as one of the most well-run and welcoming pickleball tournaments in Southeast Asia. While it draws competitive players, the vibe remains relaxed and supportive — a perfect environment for seniors.

You’ll find divisions for 50+, 60+, and even 65+ in singles and doubles, as well as opportunities to attend skills clinics, socialize at resort-based gatherings, and enjoy the stunning island setting.

Insider tip: Many players from Singapore, Malaysia, and India attend — great for networking if you’re interested in that part of the world.

3. English Open – Telford, United Kingdom

One of the UK’s largest pickleball events, the English Open features both skill-based and age-group brackets, including strong participation from senior players.

The tournament runs alongside seminars and beginner sessions, making it friendly to players of all levels. If you’re traveling from North America or Australia, this is a great opportunity to see how pickleball is growing in the UK — and meet others helping build it from the ground up.

Added bonus: The event often coincides with cultural tours or trips to historic sites organized by local players or sponsors.

4. South African Pickleball Meetup – Cape Town

While not a large-scale tournament (yet), this growing annual meetup draws senior players from around Africa — and a few adventurous expats and international visitors. Set against the backdrop of Cape Town’s beautiful coast, it combines friendly games with local wine tastings, coastal walks, and informal community building.

Seniors are at the heart of the South African pickleball movement, and attending this event is as much about connection as competition.

5. International Friendship Series – Rotating Host Cities

This unique, lightly competitive event series rotates between cities in Europe, North America, and Latin America — and is focused on building cross-border friendships through pickleball.

The format includes round robins, mixed-country pairings, and relaxed matchups that prioritize fun over fierce competition. Many participants are 55+, and the vibe is more “tennis camp for grownups” than “high-stakes bracket play.”

Locations have included the Canary Islands, Mexico, and even parts of Brazil. If you’re looking for an excuse to travel and play — without tournament pressure — this is one to watch.

6. Pop-Up Play Events and Cruises

Not all international play happens in stadiums or big venues. Increasingly, pop-up pickleball events are being organized on cruise ships, at resorts, and even in remote research stations (hello, Antarctica!).

Many travel companies now offer pickleball cruises, where a portion of the ship is converted to courts and daily games are included in the itinerary. These trips often attract active seniors and include 50+ tournaments, lessons, and plenty of social fun.

Yes, seriously: One Senior Pickleball Tips member even helped organize indoor matches at a U.S. research station in Antarctica — proof that you don’t need a traditional “event” to be part of the global game.

How to Stay in the Loop

To find out about upcoming international events and opportunities:

• Follow global pickleball organizations like the International Federation of Pickleball (IFP), Asia Pickleball Association, or European Pickleball Federation.
• Join Facebook groups and expat forums related to pickleball travel.
• Ask around in the Senior Pickleball Tips community — chances are, someone’s already played or attended one of these events and can give firsthand insight.

Final Thoughts: The World Is Your Court

International pickleball events offer more than just games. They’re a way to meet like-minded players, explore new places, and be part of something bigger than your local court. For seniors, they bring together community, travel, purpose, and play — all wrapped up in a 7-ounce paddle and a perforated ball.

So, if you’re curious, don’t wait. Look up an event. Book the trip. Say yes to that invitation. The global pickleball scene is warm, welcoming, and waiting — and there’s always room for one more.