FLORIDA OPEN MAKES BLOCKBUSTER RETURN TO ORLANDO 4–9 AUGUST – TICKETS ON SALE 18 MARCH
The Florida Open Pool Championship will return to the Caribe Royale Resort, Orlando, Florida from 4–9 August 2026, as the World Nineball Tour heads back to the Sunshine State for the second edition of the rapidly growing American showpiece.
Fans are encouraged to sign up for ticket alerts now ahead of tickets going on sale on 18 March, with demand expected to be high following last year’s incredible turnout.
DON’T MISS OUT – GET YOUR WNT TV PASS NOW WITH 20% EARLY BIRD DISCOUNT!
SIGN UP FOR FLORIDA OPEN TICKET ALERTS HERE
After a spectacular inaugural event in 2025, which saw a sold out venue for the finals, the Florida Open will once again feature a 256-player field, including 128 World Nineball Tour professionals, competing across six days in one of the sport’s most exciting destinations.
Reigning champion Aloysius Yapp returns to defend his title after producing a statement performance in last year, defeating five-time US Open champion Shane Van Boening to lift the inaugural Florida Open crown. The three-time Major Champion star is set to headline a star-studded international field as the world’s elite battle it out in Orlando once again.
Yapp said: “Winning the inaugural Florida Open was a special moment in my career, especially against a champion of Shane’s calibre in the final. To come through a field that strong and lift the first title meant a great deal to me. The atmosphere all week was incredible, and the energy in the arena for the final is something I’ll never forget. I’m excited to return to Orlando to defend the title and test myself again against the best players in the world once again.”
Amaury Piedra, Vice President of Operations & Managing Director at Caribe Royale Resort, said: “We’re proud to partner with Matchroom to bring the 2026 Florida Open back to Orlando and to Caribe Royale Orlando resort. Hosting this premier event as part of the World Nineball Tour reflects our continued commitment to delivering world-class sports and entertainment experiences in Central Florida. Matchroom is the global leader in professional billiards, and we’re thrilled to welcome the competitors and fans they attract to our city. Our entire resort team looks forward to delivering an exceptional experience for everyone participating in this exciting event.”
Emily Frazer, CEO of Matchroom Multi Sport, said: “The Florida Open made an immediate impact in its first year. The crowd support across the week was outstanding and showed just how strong the appetite for world-class pool is, not just in Orlando but across America. Caribe Royale Resort proved to be a fantastic partner and host venue, helping us deliver an event experience that players and fans won’t forget. We’re delighted to be returning for 2026, and with tickets expected to move quickly, we strongly encourage fans to be ready when they go on sale next month.”
With tickets set to go on sale from 18 March, fans are urged to register their interest early to secure the best seats as the Florida Open returns for another landmark edition this summer.
For fans unable to attend in person, the Florida Open will be broadcast live on WNT TV, with further international broadcasters to be announced in the coming weeks.
For all the latest updates, follow Matchroom Pool on Facebook, Instagram, X, TikTok, and YouTube
