Why 50 Million Americans Are Obsessed With Pickleball—And What You’Re Missing Out on

Pickleball has transformed from a quirky retirement community pastime into America’s fastest-growing sports obsession. The numbers are staggering: 48.3 million Americans hitting the courts, with players spanning from millennials to boomers. It’s a perfect storm of accessible fun – part tennis, part ping-pong, all social butterfly. The low-impact nature keeps joints happy while delivering a serious workout. Even urban hotspots like NYC and LA can’t get enough of this caffeinated squirrel of a sport movement.

Three little letters have taken over America’s recreational landscape: P-B-O – Pickleball Obsession. It’s not just another passing fad. A staggering 48.3 million Americans have picked up a paddle in the past year, and that number keeps climbing like a caffeinated squirrel up a tree. The sport has exploded from a mere 3.1 million players in 2017 to over 13.6 million in 2023. That’s what you call momentum.

Forget what you think you know about pickleball being a retiree’s game. The average player is 34.8 years of existence, and more than 70% of die-hard enthusiasts are between 18 and 44. Those Instagram-loving twenty-somethings? They’re all over it. The 25-34 age range dominates with 40% of regular players. The 35-44 age group has seen an incredible 86% growth since August 2022.

Pickleball isn’t just for grandparents anymore. Young players are flooding the courts, with millennials leading the paddle-wielding revolution.

And while guys currently rule the courts at 62% of avid players, women are quickly closing the gender gap. Players experience a full-body workout that enhances strength, balance, and cardiovascular health while having fun. The low-impact nature of the sport makes it particularly appealing for those seeking gentle exercise options.

The geographic spread reads like a Who’s Who of urban hotspots. New York City and Los Angeles are leading the charge, accounting for over 21% of all players. Meanwhile, California and Florida are duking it out for court supremacy, each boasting over 1,000 locations to play.

With 44,094 courts nationwide, finding a game is easier than finding a parking spot at Whole Foods.

What’s the big deal? It’s simple really. Pickleball hits the sweet spot between physical activity and social connection. It’s easier on the joints than tennis, requires minimal equipment, and creates instant communities.

Players get hooked on the perfect trinity: competition, skill mastery, and social interaction. It’s like CrossFit met your local coffee shop and had a baby.

The obsession shows no signs of slowing down. Courts are popping up faster than food delivery apps, and participation jumped 35% in just the past year.

From casual players to hardcore enthusiasts, Americans can’t get enough of this paddle-wielding phenomenon. Miss out now, and you’re basically skipping the next social revolution. No pressure.