On July 16, 2018, a significant event took place in the world of pickleball. It was the day when the first-ever US Open Pickleball Championships concluded at the Indian Wells Tennis Garden in California. The tournament, which began on July 9, attracted over 1,300 players from across the United States and several other countries, making it one of the largest pickleball tournaments to date.

The event featured a range of skill levels, from amateur to professional, and included singles, doubles, and mixed doubles competitions across various age divisions. The tournament gained substantial attention from both pickleball enthusiasts and media outlets, helping to raise the profile of the sport.

In the highly anticipated men's pro singles final, Tyson McGuffin, a 28-year-old from Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, emerged victorious against Wes Gabrielsen of Oregon. McGuffin's powerful serves and aggressive play style earned him the title and a cash prize of $4,500. In the women's pro singles final, Catherine Parenteau of Michigan defeated Simone Jardim of Florida to claim the championship title.

The success of the 2018 US Open Pickleball Championships showcased the rapid growth and increasing popularity of pickleball in the United States and beyond. The event also highlighted the high level of competition and athleticism in the sport, with many thrilling matches throughout the tournament.

This landmark event helped establish pickleball as a serious and competitive sport, paving the way for future growth and increased recognition. Since then, the US Open Pickleball Championships have become an annual event, attracting top players and thousands of spectators each year, and cementing its place as one of the most prestigious tournaments in the pickleball calendar.