Pickleball Worldwide: Internationally and in the United States, pickleball is proliferating. Pickleball is played by millions of people worldwide, and its popularity does not seem to be waning. In this article, we’ll look at how many people play pickleball worldwide and explore some of the reasons behind its growing popularity.
How many People Play Pickleball Worldwide?
In 2020, approximately 4.2 million Americans played pickleball, according to the Sports and Fitness Industry Association (SFIA). This number represents a 21% increase from the previous year, highlighting the sport’s continued growth and popularity. The SFIA also found that 67% of all pickleball players are over 55, making it a popular choice among seniors looking for a low-impact, social activity.
While data on pickleball players is provided exclusively for the United States by the SFIA, estimates suggest that millions of players participate in the sport worldwide. The International Federation of Pickleball (IFP) currently has 38 member countries, with more countries joining each year. These countries include Canada, Australia, Japan, and several countries in Europe, South America, and Asia.
Reasons behind Pickleball’s growing popularity
So, what’s driving the growth of pickleball worldwide? One reason is its accessibility. Players can engage in pickleball on any flat surface, facilitating easy setup and play in almost any location. Additionally, enthusiasts can play pickleball indoors or outdoors, turning it into a year-round sport in many parts of the world.
Another reason for pickleball’s popularity is its low-impact gameplay. Unlike other popular racket sports like tennis, pickleball is much easier on the joints and muscles, making it a great option for seniors and anyone looking to reduce their risk of injury. The smaller court size and slower game pace make it a more approachable sport for beginners.
Finally, pickleball’s social nature is another reason behind its growing popularity. Many players cite the game’s social aspect as one of their favorite parts, with the sport often played in groups and tournaments featuring a range of skill levels. This makes it a great way to meet new people and stay active at the same time.
The Future of Pickleball
As pickleball continues gaining popularity worldwide, many wonder what the sport’s future holds. Some predict it will eventually become an Olympic sport, with the IFP working hard to promote its inclusion in the games. Others predict it will continue to be a popular social and recreational activity, with new players discovering the game daily.
Regardless of its future, one thing is clear: pickleball is here to stay. With its easy-to-learn rules, low-impact gameplay, and social nature, it’s no wonder that millions of people worldwide have fallen in love with this fun and exciting sport.
FAQs: Pickleball Worldwide
Pickleball is a rapidly growing sport that has recently gained popularity worldwide. While it is difficult to know the exact number of people who play the sport, it is estimated that there are millions of players worldwide.
Pickleball is particularly popular in the United States, where it was invented. According to a report by the Sports & Fitness Industry Association, over 4.2 million people in the United States played Pickleball in 2020, which represents a 21% increase from the previous year.
Pickleball is a relatively new sport in Europe but is gaining popularity quickly. The European Pickleball Federation was established in 2015 with over 20 member countries. The sport is also played in many European countries, including the United Kingdom, Germany, and Spain.
Pickleball is also popular in Canada, where it has been growing in popularity in recent years. According to Pickleball Canada, there are currently over 200,000 active players in the country, and the sport is played in all 10 provinces and 3 territories.
Conclusion: Pickleball Worldwide
In conclusion of Pickleball Worldwide, while exact data on the number of pickleball players worldwide is hard to come by, it’s clear that the sport is growing in popularity both in the United States and worldwide. Its accessibility, low-impact gameplay, and social nature make it an attractive option for players of all ages and skill levels. Its future looks bright as more people discover the joys of playing pickleball. There’s never been a better time to get involved in this exciting sport, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting.
