Predictions for the 2026 PPA Masters Tournament

The 2026 PPA Tour season kicks off with the thrilling Masters Tournament, a Slam-class event with 2,000 points at stake for the winners. Known for its prestige and tradition, the Masters is held at the iconic Mission Hills Country Club in Rancho Mirage, California, offering a spectacle for both fans and players.

With its unique atmosphere, marked by the players wearing white, the Masters has established itself as one of the most anticipated and respected events on the tour. In this article, we'll explore the magic of the tournament, how to follow every moment, and the stories that can define this competition.

The Charm and Tradition of Masters

Mission Hills Country Club is a perfect setting for the Masters Tournament, combining natural beauty and sporting tradition. Players wearing white not only respect tradition but also elevate the event's status, making it one of the most renowned on the circuit.

With the start of the PPA Tour 2026, the Masters offers players the chance to earn valuable points right at the beginning of the season. This tournament is not just a competition; it's a celebration of the sport, attracting both veterans and new talents.

For the competitors, what's at stake goes beyond the points: it's an opportunity to leave a lasting mark on one of pickleball's most iconic stages.

How to Watch the Tournament

For fans eager to watch the PPA Masters 2026 , there are several streaming options available. Matches will be broadcast daily at the following times and on the following channels:

• Tuesday, January 13th - Rounds 128 and 64, from 1 PM to 9 PM ET, on pickleballtv .
• Wednesday, January 14th - Round of 32, from 1 PM to 9 PM ET, on pickleballtv .
• Thursday, January 15th - Round of 16, from 1 PM to 9 PM ET on pickleballtv and from 7 PM to 9 PM ET on FS2.
  

Main Stories and Dramas of the Tournament

One of the tournament's biggest focuses is the dominance of Anna Leigh Waters, who seeks to continue her impressive winning streak in 2026. Her journey on the PPA Tour has been marked by remarkable achievements, and expectations are high for this event.

Furthermore, changes in sponsors and equipment between players add an element of drama. Anna Leigh, for example, switched from Paddletek to Franklin, while other players also made significant transitions.

Another point of interest is the return of Will Howells to the tour, now as an exclusively signed player. His new partnerships promise to bring a new dynamism to the competition.

Predictions and Expectations in Competitions

In terms of competition, the singles and doubles categories promise fierce contests. In the women's category, Anna Leigh Waters is the favorite, while in the men's, Chris Haworth is one of the top contenders to surprise.

The new doubles partnerships, such as the switch between Alshon and Staksrud, could change the dynamics of the matches and bring surprises throughout the tournament.

Expectations are high for the semifinals and finals, with many believing we will see intense clashes and memorable matches.

Weather and Playing Conditions

The weather in Rancho Mirage during the tournament is ideal for pickleball, with temperatures ranging from 50°F to 80°F. These conditions are perfect, contributing to the popularity of the Masters at this time of year.

Compared to previous editions, the stable weather tends to favor players who perform consistently in similar conditions, enhancing the spectacle.

Players will have to adapt quickly, but many are already accustomed to the location's peculiar climate, which promises high-level gameplay.