Star-Studded Lineup Set for Celebrity Showdown
The promotional buzz around the World Championships continues to build ahead of Thursday's MUNICIPAL Celebrity Pickleball Showdown. Mark Wahlberg will headline the exhibition alongside stars including Sean "Suga" O'Malley, John Isner, Jeremy Piven, and top tour pros.
The Night Worlds Gets Loud
Every year, the World Championships clears one evening for pickleball's most relaxed, most photographed session: celebrities and pros on the same court, in front of a packed house. This year's edition lands Thursday, Nov 5, at Brookhaven Country Club in Farmers Branch, Texas.
MUNICIPAL, Wahlberg's apparel brand, is title sponsor. In the announcement, Wahlberg tied the sport to the brand's founding creed of "dream, plan, hustle, repeat." The showdown is billed as a one-night exhibition pairing celebrities, professional athletes and top PPA Tour names.
The Lineup
Mark Wahlberg
Actor and entrepreneur, founder of MUNICIPAL, the title sponsor. He has been spotted at pro pickleball events this season.
Sean "Suga" O'Malley
The UFC star, known for his neon-colored hair and full-sleeve tattoos, has made celebrity pickleball appearances this fall.
John Isner
The former ATP standout is a veteran of celebrity pickleball showdowns, including the 2023 edition in Farmers Branch.
Jeremy Piven
The actor rounds out the celebrity side of the promo lineup.
Ben Johns
Listed as PPA #1 in the event graphic.
Anna Leigh Waters
Listed as PPA #1 in the event graphic.
Specific pairings and match format had not been published at the time of writing. Past editions have used short, exhibition-style games that finish in tight scores, so expect the same spirit.
How to Watch
The Celebrity Pro-Am is scheduled for 7–9 PM CT on Thursday, Nov 5, on Tennis Channel and PickleballTV. It follows the Round of 16 session, which runs 11 AM–7 PM CT on PickleballTV. The Worlds celebration runs Oct 30–Nov 8, with the PPA World Championships Nov 2–8.
FAQ
When is the MUNICIPAL Celebrity Pickleball Showdown?
Thursday, Nov 5, 2026, 7–9 PM CT at Brookhaven Country Club in Farmers Branch, Texas.
How can I watch it?
On Tennis Channel and PickleballTV.
Who is playing?
Mark Wahlberg headlines. The promotional lineup also lists Sean O'Malley, John Isner, Jeremy Piven, Ben Johns and Anna Leigh Waters.
Who sponsors the event?
MUNICIPAL, Wahlberg's apparel brand.
Sources
- Pickleball.com: Mark Wahlberg to headline MUNICIPAL Celebrity Pickleball Showdown
- Pickleball.com: Complete Guide to the 2026 Opendoor Pickleball World Championships
- CBS News Texas: Celebrity Pickleball Showdown (2023)
Related: Mark Wahlberg Attends Major League Pickleball Playoffs