Pickleballs Growth Is Rapid | This Study Shows
This article summarizes what published research reported about the growth of pickleball, mainly the 2023 APP Pickleball Participation Report, which was conducted by YouGov for the Association of Pickleball Professionals (APP). We have not run our own survey; the figures below come from the cited reports and press coverage, and different studies measure participation differently.
The Meteoric Rise of Pickleball
The 2023 APP Pickleball Participation Report (released in January 2023) estimated that about 14% of Americans aged 18 or older, roughly 36.5 million people, played pickleball at least once between August 2021 and August 2022.
That figure is far higher than other widely cited estimates, such as those from the Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA), which estimated about 4.8 million U.S. players in 2021 and about 8.9 million in 2022. The gap is largely due to different methods and definitions of a 'player'.
The APP report's survey was conducted by YouGov, which surveyed roughly 2,500 U.S. adults aged 18 or older, selected to represent the national population.
As expected, there are discrepancies between the SFIA and APP studies. Both show strong growth, but they should not be mixed together.
The headline finding is the estimate of 36.5 million U.S. adults who played at least once between August 2021 and August 2022. This estimate includes anyone who played at all, from occasional beginners to regulars.
The report also estimated that about 8.5 million people played eight or more times in that period.
In other words, a smaller group of the total are regular players, which is a more useful indicator of the committed player base.
Pickleball Players in 2023: Who They Are and Where They Play
The dynamic sport of pickleball has continued to evolve and expand in 2023, attracting a diverse range of players from various age groups, ethnicities, genders, and socio-economic backgrounds. Research such as the APP's reported that the average age of avid players is much younger than many people assume (about 35 in its March 2023 release), although older adults remain a large part of the sport.
As for the venues of pickleball play, while indoor facilities are becoming more common in colder climates or densely populated areas, outdoor courts remain the most popular venue, with many communities and parks installing new courts or converting underutilized spaces into pickleball courts. Regional breakdowns differ between studies, so we have not repeated a specific claim here; the sport is played across the whole United States.
The Equipment and Gear of Pickleball: What Players Use and Why
Pickleball equipment has also undergone significant advancements in recent years, with new materials, designs, and features aimed at enhancing performance and comfort. The most commonly used paddles are made of graphite or composite materials, with a range of shapes, sizes, and weights available to suit different playing styles and preferences. Pickleball balls are typically made of durable plastic, with specific ball models approved for use in tournaments. Players also use various accessories and apparel, such as shoes, hats, sunglasses, and bags, and invest in training aids, such as ball machines or instructional videos, to enhance their skills and knowledge of the game.
The Competitive Landscape of Pickleball: Tournaments and Rankings
Pickleball tournaments continue to be a critical aspect of the sport, with an increase in the number and variety of tournaments available to players of different levels and ages. Some of the most prominent tournaments include the US Open Pickleball Championships, the Tournament of Champions, and the Nationals. Several ranking systems have also emerged, using different criteria and algorithms to assign points and determine rankings, with DUPR increasingly used as a ratings system
The Future of Pickleball: Opportunities and Challenges
As pickleball continues to grow and expand, new opportunities and challenges are emerging. One of the long-term goals mentioned by some in the sport is the possible inclusion of pickleball in the Olympic Games, although it has not been added to the Olympic program. However, there are also challenges, such as the need for consistent rules across tours and organizations, court availability, noise complaints, and the cost and maintenance of facilities.
Despite these challenges, we firmly believe that pickleball will continue to thrive and grow in the coming years, thanks to its unique blend of social, competitive, and health benefits. As more people discover the joys and benefits of playing pickleball, we expect to see new innovations, collaborations, and communities emerge, enriching the sport and its culture.
Conclusion: The Value and Impact of Pickleball in 2023
In conclusion, the research suggests that pickleball participation grew very rapidly in 2021 and 2022, though estimates vary widely depending on the study. Figures here are from 2022-2023 and are likely to have changed since.
