Is Pickleball a Fad? (8 Reasons the Answer Is Overwhelmingly ‘No’)

Pickleball is a relatively new sport that’s been gaining popularity in recent years. But with its sudden rise in popularity, many people are wondering: is pickleball just a passing fad, or is it here to stay?

With its unique elements of tennis, badminton, and ping pong, it’s no wonder why people are becoming increasingly interested in this fun and engaging game. 

Let’s take a closer look at the sport and find out if pickleball is worth your time and investment.

8 Reasons Pickleball Isn’t Just a Fad

Pickleball Courts Are Popping Up Everywhere

One of the biggest indicators that pickleball is here to stay is the number of dedicated pickleball courts being built. While pickleball can be played on existing tennis courts, many places are now building dedicated pickleball courts to accommodate the growing demand. 

These courts are popping up in parks, community centers, and even retirement communities.

The trend isn’t limited to the United States, either. Pickleball has gained popularity in Canada, the United Kingdom, and many other countries. In fact, there are now international pickleball tournaments held all around the world, attracting players from all different countries.

Tennis Courts Are Being Converted to Pickleball Courts

Another sign that pickleball is not just a fad is the fact that many tennis courts are being converted to pickleball courts. This is because pickleball requires a smaller court than tennis and can be played on existing tennis courts with some modifications. 

However, with the growing popularity of pickleball, many places are finding it more cost-effective to convert an existing tennis court to dedicated pickleball courts rather than try to accommodate both sports on the same court.

Pickleball Players Are Passionate and Loyal

If you’ve ever met pickleball players, you know that they’re passionate about the sport. Many players describe it as addictive and find themselves playing multiple times per week (myself included!). The community of pickleball players is also incredibly supportive, with many players forming friendships and socializing off the court as well.

This passion and loyalty to the sport are strong indicators that pickleball isn’t just a passing fad. Players who are dedicated to the sport and are passionate about its benefits continue to play and promote the sport, ensuring its longevity.

USA Pickleball Is Growing Rapidly

The growth of USA Pickleball, the national governing body for the sport in the United States, is another sign that pickleball isn’t just a fad. The organization has seen rapid growth in recent years, with membership increasing from just over 4,000 in 2013 to over 40,000 in 2021.

USA Pickleball also hosts national and regional tournaments, including the US Open Pickleball Championships, attracting thousands of players and spectators every year. 

The organization has also been working to get pickleball recognized as an Olympic sport, further cementing its place in the world of sports.

Increasing Pickleball Participation

According to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association, pickleball participation grew by 85.7% year-over-year, making it one of the fastest-growing sports in the United States. This growth isn’t limited to the United States, either. In Canada, the number of people playing pickleball has more than doubled in the past five years.

As the popularity of pickleball continues to grow, celebrities are even getting a piece of Major League Pickleball teams. While this may seem like a far-fetched idea, it’s worth noting that other niche sports like cornhole and axe throwing have already made their way into the mainstream, with professional leagues and tournaments. 

In fact, there are already professional pickleball players who make a living playing the sport. These players compete in tournaments around the country, earning money from prize winnings and sponsorships. 

The rise of professional pickleball players is another strong indicator that the sport is here to stay. 

Pickleball Has a Professional Association

The Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) was founded in 2018 and has quickly become the premier organization for professional pickleball players. The PPA hosts tournaments throughout the year, giving players the chance to compete for prize money and ranking points. The organization also provides a platform for players to showcase their skills and gain exposure, which has increased the visibility and popularity of the sport.

In addition to the PPA, there are other organizations that host pickleball tournaments and events. 

The USA Pickleball Association (USAPA), for example, is the governing body for the sport in the United States and hosts the US Open Pickleball Championships, one of the largest and most prestigious pickleball tournaments in the world.

The emergence of these professional organizations and tournaments has attracted top athletes from other sports to pickleball. Some former professional tennis players, for example, have made the switch to pickleball and have found success on the court (Sam Querrey, for example). 

The popularity of the sport has also led to increased sponsorship opportunities, with companies like Wilson, Selkirk, and Head producing pickleball paddles and equipment.

Pickleball Offers a Unique Experience

Pickleball offers a unique and engaging experience for players. Firstly, it is a sport that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels. Unlike some sports that may require a certain level of athleticism or experience, pickleball is accessible to everyone, making it a great way to get active and have fun for all skill levels. 

It can be played in singles or doubles, allowing players to tailor their experience to their personal preferences.

Furthermore, pickleball is accessible to people of all ages and fitness levels. It’s a low-impact sport that is easy on the joints, making it an excellent option for those who may have physical limitations that prevent them from playing more high-impact sports like tennis. 

People Love the Social Aspect of Pickleball

In addition to the factors above, there are several other reasons pickleball is more than just a fad. 

Many people enjoy the social aspect of pickleball. Because the game is often played in doubles, it provides players an opportunity to meet and interact with other people. This social aspect makes pickleball a great way to make new friends and build a sense of community.

Also, many people find pickleball to be great exercise. The fast-paced nature of the game provides a cardiovascular workout, while the quick movements and precise shots improve agility and coordination. 

Lastly, because the game is low-impact, it’s a great option for those who may have physical limitations that prevent them from playing other sports.

Conclusion

As you can see, pickleball is definitely not just a passing fad – it’s here to stay!

Its accessibility, unique experience, growing professional leagues, and expanding community ensures that it will continue to grow in popularity in the coming years. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a beginner, pickleball offers a fun and engaging experience accessible to all. 

So grab a paddle and join in on the fun – you might just find your new favorite sport!