The Rise of Pickleball: Why America’s Fastest-Growing Sport Is Taking Over in 2025

Pickleball has taken the United States by storm, evolving from a quirky backyard pastime into a mainstream phenomenon. In 2025, it’s not just America’s fastest-growing sport—it’s a cultural movement reshaping communities, recreation, and even the business of sports. Here’s why pickleball is everywhere, and why its momentum shows no signs of slowing down.

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Pickleball’s Explosive Growth: The Latest Numbers

Pickleball’s surge is nothing short of staggering. In 2025, nearly 50 million Americans have played the sport at least once, according to the latest estimates1. That’s a 311% increase in active players over the last three years, with 19.8 million Americans now playing regularly2. The sport’s popularity has led to the construction of over 68,000 courts nationwide, with more than 18,000 added just in 2024 alone2.

The economic impact is equally impressive. The U.S. pickleball market is projected to reach $1.1 billion in 2025, while the global market is expected to hit $2.6 billion this year and soar to $9.6 billion by 203434. The market for pickleball paddles alone is set to be worth $184.4 million in 2025, doubling by 20345.

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Why Is Pickleball So Popular?

Accessibility and Simplicity

Pickleball’s rules are easy to learn, and the smaller court size makes it less intimidating than tennis or squash—perfect for beginners and seasoned athletes alike6. Players of all ages can quickly pick up a paddle and join a game, making it a truly intergenerational sport