Ultimate Pool USA – National Open 2026

Location

Harrah's Cherokee Casino Resort
777 Casino Drive
Cherokee, NC 28719

Dates

November 5–8, 2026

The Ultimate Pool USA National Open returns as part of Grand Finals week at Harrah's Cherokee Casino Resort. With a 512-player field, a $20,000 first prize, and four days of world-class competition, this is one of the biggest open 8-ball events in North America.

Whether you're chasing the title, testing yourself against the best, or simply looking to be part of one of the sport's premier events, this is your chance to compete on one of the biggest stages in Ultimate Pool USA.

Entry Details

Entry Fee: $200 ($180 entry + $20 equipment/registration fee)

Player Cap: 512 Players Maximum

Format: Round robin group stage followed by either the Main Event or Second Chance single-elimination brackets.

• Guaranteed 4 matches based on a full field
• UPL 8-Ball Rules
• 7-foot tables
• No jump shots or jump cues permitted
• Scheduled match times throughout the event
• Prize money paid via bank transfer within 14 business days of the event finishing

Main Event Prize Breakdown (Top 128 Paid)

Second Chance Event Prize Breakdown (Top 32 Paid)

Accommodation

Book your stay at discounted rates through our official accommodation partner.

Book offsite hotel

Book onsite hotel

We recommend booking early, as hotel rooms during Grand Finals week are expected to sell quickly.

Tournament Format

Preliminary Stage

• 128 Groups of 4 Players
• Race to 6

The top two players from each group progress to the Main Event, while the bottom two players enter the Second Chance Event.

Main Event

• Final 256
• Single Elimination
• Race to 7
• Final: Race to 8

Second Chance Event

• Final 256
• Single Elimination
• Race to 5

Shot Clock & Match Timing

• All matches operate with an unofficial 30-second shot clock.
• TV Table matches use an official 30-second shot clock, controlled by the referee.
• During the final 10 minutes of TV Table matches, the shot clock is reduced to 15 seconds.
• TV Table matches also have a 40-minute match clock.

If a match is tied when time expires, the winner will be determined by a 6-Ball Shootout.

Dress Code

To help maintain a professional playing environment, all players are required to follow the dress code below.

Permitted Attire

• Playing jersey, collared shirt, or polo shirt
• Dress slacks or trousers in any color
• Women may wear neat, full-length leggings
• Smart predominantly black sneakers or dress shoes
• Smart hoodies or jackets may be worn during play

Not Permitted

• Hats
• Headphones or earbuds during play

Any clothing outside of these guidelines must be approved in advance by the Tournament Directors.

TV Table Logo Policy

Sponsor logos may not exceed 6 × 3 inches and must be positioned on the front/chest area or sleeves. Ultimate Pool USA reserves the right to request that any logo be covered or removed.

Additional Information

• Valid photo ID is required for participation.
• Players will receive additional event information via email closer to the event. Please check your inbox and junk folder after entering.
• Follow Ultimate Pool USA on social media for official event updates, schedules, and live coverage.

Refund Policy

• One entry per person.
• If a player withdraws and an alternate is available to take the spot, a refund may be issued.
• Ultimate Pool USA retains 25% of any refunded entry fee to cover administration and processing costs.
• Ultimate Pool USA reserves the right to refuse any entry.

Media Release

By entering the National Open, players grant Ultimate Pool USA permission to use photographs and video footage captured during the tournament for live broadcasts, social media, promotional material, advertising, and future marketing purposes.