Pickleball: The Fastest Growing Sport in the US

Eric & Debra Ross
Published on June 1, 2023

Pickleball: The Fastest Growing Sport in the US

Pickleball is the latest sensation in the world of sports in the United States. It is a game that combines tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, and it has become the fastest-growing sport in the country. In fact, with over 4.8 million people playing it, pickleball is now ready for the big leagues. Its strongest growth is among players under 55, and it is getting younger every day. With celebrity backers like Tom Brady and increased media attention, the number of places to play pickleball has increased significantly. At the end of 2022, there were already 11,000 locations in the country where you can play this game. If you’re looking for a new sport to try, look no further than pickleball. This fast-paced game is suitable for players of all ages and skill levels. USA Pickleball is even courting corporate sponsors as it seeks inclusion in the Olympics, and there are now two national professional tournaments with hundreds of thousands of dollars in prize payouts. Here’s everything you need to know about the game, including how to play, the right equipment, and the best places to play.

Rules and gameplay

Pickleball is played with a paddle and a plastic ball with holes. The game can be played with two or four players, and the objective is to hit the ball over the net and into the opponent’s court without them being able to return it. The serving team must serve diagonally, and the ball must land in the opposite service court. The receiving team must let the ball bounce before returning it and then play continues until one team fails to return the ball or hits it out of bounds. Points are scored only by the serving team, and the first to reach 11 points with at least a 2-point lead wins the game.

Here’s a brief video on the rules and gameplay of pickleball:

Equipment and Gear

To play pickleball, you’ll need a paddle, balls, shoes, and a bag to carry your gear. Paddles come in a variety of materials and sizes, and the type of ball used can affect the game’s speed and bounce. Shoes with good traction are essential for quick movements on the court, and a bag can help you keep your gear organized. Here are the 10 Best Pickleball Paddles For Beginners. If you are looking for a starter kit for pickleball, check these out! Still not sure which paddle to get? Take a look at this article on How to Choose Your Next Pickleball Paddle.

Best Places to Play

Are you looking for the best places to play pickleball? Look no further than the USA Pickleball Places 2 Play website and app, which provide a comprehensive list of courts throughout the US that players can search by location. With over 15,000 indoor and outdoor courts across the country, there’s no shortage of places to play pickleball. Arizona has the highest number of courts per capita, but you can find courts in community centers, parks, and even at some schools and universities. Many cities have pickleball clubs or leagues, and some even host annual tournaments. For a fun family adventure, consider taking a road trip to visit some of the best pickleball courts in the country. The Green Valley Recreation Pickleball Club in Arizona is particularly impressive, boasting 36 courts for members and guests. Other notable locations include Dreamland in Texas, Bobby Riggs Racket & Paddle Club in California, and Pickleball Kingdom in Arizona. For those looking for a unique experience, there are even eatertainment and casual pickleball facilities, such as Chicken N Pickle, which combine pickleball with food, drinks, and other entertainment options… think TopGolf for pickleball!

Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just looking for a fun new hobby, pickleball is a great choice. With its fast-paced gameplay, social aspects, and accessibility, it’s easy to see why it’s become the fastest growing sport in the US. All in all, pickleball’s rise to fame is undeniable, and it looks like it’s here to stay… So grab a paddle and some friends, and head out to the court today!