The Fort, the Fort Lauderdale destination widely regarded as America’s top pickleball venue, and the Association of Pickleball Players (APP), owner operators of the APP Tour, the official tour of pickleball, today announced a strategic partnership with Hard Rock Bet, the only place to legally bet on sports in Florida.

The partnership puts Hard Rock Bet at the center of daily life at The Fort, which serves as the official headquarters of the APP. The marquee grandstand court, where the biggest matches take place, is now the Hard Rock Bet Violet Court. As the Official Watch Party Partner, Hard Rock Bet is woven right into the everyday scene at The Fort Bar — where expanded screens mean fans can catch their game and place their bets, hang with friends, and soak up the atmosphere long after the last point.

Hard Rock Bet also serves as presenter of The Fort's headline social events and The Fort's biggest tournament of the year – the 2026 APP Tour Championships (December 3-6) – serving as both presenter and Official Sports Betting Partner of the APP Tour. The tournament marks the APP Tour's season finale, a four-day showcase of the world's best pickleball pros battling for gold alongside hundreds of amateur players of all ages and skill levels. Hard Rock Bet will be courtside on the Championship Court, reaching a national livestream audience, host guests in a premium VIP suite with concierge service and elevated hospitality, provide 'money can't buy experiences' with exclusive clinics and pro-player appearances, and bring a fan-zone activation into the heart of the action.

“Hard Rock Bet is elevating what live entertainment looks like for our players, and our partnership with The Fort and the APP Tour brings that to life with packed courts, buzzing watch parties, and a true community built around America’s fastest-growing sport,” said Lauren Varnas, Vice President of Brand Marketing at Digital. “The Fort and the APP are the perfect extension of the Hard Rock Bet Party and we’re excited to engage their passionate members and host our players at this world-class venue and tournament.”

“The Fort was built to be more than pickleball — it’s a community, a social hub, and a destination for locals and travelers alike,” said Brad Tuckman, Managing Partner of The Fort. “Hard Rock is one of the most iconic brands in the world, and having Hard Rock Bet plant its flag here as our Official Partner is a defining moment for us and for the sport.”

“The APP is proud to join forces with our friends at The Fort and welcome Hard Rock Bet as our newest partner,” said Ryan McSpadden, Chief Revenue Officer of the APP. “Our season finale is primed to be an epic experience, hosted at the pinnacle of pickleball facilities, and filled with nonstop excitement. All eyes will be on Hard Rock Bet at The Fort this December.”

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