Punta Cana and Juan Dolio host international pickleball events in Dominican Republic

The Rafa Nadal Tennis Center in Punta Cana hosted the inaugural Punta Cana International Pickleball Open from June 19‑21, 2026. The three‑day tournament attracted 292 players from 18 countries and was presented as a showcase for the Caribbean’s emerging sports‑tourism market. Meliá Hotels International’s ZEL Punta Cana was the official sponsor, and organisers highlighted the venue’s capacity to become a permanent hub for international competitions.

A month later, Arianna Pickleball Arena and Villa in Juan Dolio will hold the Copa Confraternidad 2026 on July 19. The event targets players in the 3.0 and 3.5 categories, offering doubles competition for mixed, male, and female pairs. Organisers stress the tournament’s role in fostering community, inclusion and the growth of pickleball across the Dominican Republic. Registration costs RD$1,000 per player with a separate RD$500 fee for accompanying guests.