LORIENT, France – The Lorient Tennis Club (LTC) is preparing to host a pickleball tournament this weekend, welcoming over 100 players to compete from Saturday, March 28th, through Sunday, March 29th, 2026. The rapidly growing sport, originating in the United States, continues to gain traction across France, blending elements of tennis, badminton and even table tennis.
Pickleball, now officially affiliated with the Fédération Française de Tennis (FFT), is experiencing increased structure and support within the country. The LTC has been at the forefront of this development in the Lorient region, offering annual introductory sessions and weekly classes since 2021. This weekend’s tournament builds on the success of two previous events held last year, and is a K100 level competition, sanctioned by the FFT and contributing to the global pickleball rankings.
Tournament Format and Schedule
“This year, we will welcome more than one hundred players divided into four different brackets,” explained Olivier Vigneau, a pickleball player and the tournament organizer. The competition will unfold over two days, featuring a diverse range of events.
Saturday’s schedule begins with the men’s singles tournament, featuring eight players. The afternoon will then transition to a mixed doubles competition, with 17 pairs vying for the top spot. Sunday will see simultaneous tournaments for men’s doubles (25 pairs) and women’s doubles (12 pairs).
The LTC’s pickleball section has seen significant growth since its inception. “Since I joined the section, the number of members has steadily increased. We are one of the largest sections in Brittany, with nearly 40 licensed players,” Vigneau noted. He attributes this surge in popularity to the accessibility of the sport, describing it as “a fun sport” that’s attracting players from various backgrounds, particularly those with a tennis background.
For those unfamiliar, pickleball is played on a badminton-sized court with a lowered net. Players use solid paddles to hit a perforated plastic ball over the net. The sport combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, and is known for its relatively effortless learning curve and social atmosphere. It’s a sport that’s quickly gaining a dedicated following, and the Lorient tournament is a testament to its growing appeal.
Lorient Tennis Club’s Commitment to Pickleball
The Lorient Tennis Club’s embrace of pickleball reflects a broader trend within French tennis clubs to diversify their offerings and attract new players. The FFT’s official affiliation with the sport has provided a framework for growth and standardization, ensuring that tournaments like the one in Lorient are officially recognized and contribute to the global ranking system.
The club’s commitment extends beyond simply offering court time. The introductory sessions and weekly classes are designed to make the sport accessible to beginners, while the competitive tournaments provide opportunities for more experienced players to test their skills. This holistic approach is fostering a thriving pickleball community in Lorient.
The tournament will be held at the Kerolay sports complex, located at Rue Moïse Le Bihan in Lorient. Admission is free for spectators, and a food and beverage service will be available at the LTC clubhouse. This provides an excellent opportunity for the public to witness the excitement of pickleball firsthand and learn more about this burgeoning sport.
The growing popularity of pickleball in France, and specifically in Lorient, highlights the sport’s appeal to a wide range of athletes and recreational players. Its accessibility, social nature, and unique blend of skills make it a compelling alternative to traditional racquet sports. As the FFT continues to support its development, pickleball is poised to become an even more prominent fixture in the French sporting landscape.
Practical Information: The tournament begins this Saturday at 9:00 AM at the Kerolay sports complex, Rue Moïse Le Bihan, Lorient. Entry is free, and refreshments will be available.
The action in Lorient this weekend promises to be a showcase of skill, sportsmanship, and the growing enthusiasm for pickleball. With over 100 players set to compete, the tournament is a significant event for the local sporting community and a testament to the sport’s rising popularity in France.
Following the tournament, the Lorient Tennis Club will continue to offer regular pickleball sessions and classes. Those interested in learning more about the sport or joining the LTC’s pickleball section can find information on the club’s website or by contacting them directly.
Keep reading
