Sarnia’s Joe DiBatista wins triple gold at US Open Pickleball Championships

A Sarnia pickleball player brought home three gold medals from the world’s largest pickleball tournament in Naples, Florida, inspiring the city’s rapidly growing pickleball community.

Joe DiBatista doesn't just play pickleball – he wins. The Sarnia resident took home three gold medals at the Franklin US Open Pickleball Championships in Naples, Florida, held April 11 to 18, 2026.

The tournament is the largest of its kind in the world, drawing more than 3,750 amateur athletes from 53 countries and over 55,000 spectators across its amateur and professional divisions.

DiBatista swept his age category, winning gold in 4.0 Singles (65-69), 4.5 Men's Doubles (65-69), and 4.5 Mixed Doubles (65-69). His Men's Doubles partner was Chi Fai Cho of New Jersey – a player he had just met at the event for the first time.

His Mixed Doubles partner has deep Sarnia roots. Angela Marczak, known locally as Angela Walker, grew up here and now lives in Pittsburgh. Her mother, Clare, still lives in Bright's Grove and returns to Sarnia regularly. Marczak also captured gold in the 4.5 Mixed Doubles 65-69 division.

Local pickleball enthusiast Nic Gogas said DiBatista has been a mentor to many players in the area, including himself.

"He resides in Sarnia and has helped many players with skill development," Gogas wrote. "He is a great friend."

Sarnia's pickleball community has been growing steadily, and those close to the sport say DiBatista's achievement is exactly the kind of inspiration the local scene needed.