Pickleball’s Economic Impact: Pickleball remains the fastest-growing sport in America, with an estimated 19.8 million players in 2024. This represents a 45.8% increase from 2023 and a staggering 311% jump over the past three years, according to the latest Sports and Fitness Industry Association (SFIA) report.
Participation Breakdown
The SFIA report divides participants into two categories: casual players and core players. Casual players, those who play 1-7 times a year, now total 13.6 million, showing a 56% increase from the previous year. Core players, who play 8 or more times a year, account for 6.2 million, a 28% increase.
Age Group Representation
Pickleball’s growth spans all age groups, with players aged 25-34 making up the largest segment at 16.7% of total participants. Players aged 65 and older represent 15.4%, while those between 18-24 account for 13.3%. Additionally, around 1 million players are under the age of 18.
Infrastructure Growth
The number of pickleball courts in the U.S. has also seen significant growth. According to USA Pickleball, there was a 55% increase in places to play compared to 2023, bringing the total to nearly 70,000 courts. This includes dedicated pickleball courts and tennis courts with temporary lines.
Despite this growth, there is still a considerable need for more infrastructure. The November report estimated that an $855 million investment in court construction is needed over the next 5-7 years to meet demand.
Economic Impact of Pickleball
As participation increases, the economic impact of pickleball is substantial. A recent report predicts the sport’s value will grow from $1.9 billion in 2023 to $7.9 billion by 2033, representing a 15.3% compound annual growth rate.
Equipment sales, including paddles, balls, and apparel, make up 41.5% of total revenue in 2023. The growth also extends to other areas:
Court Construction: New facilities are emerging, from dedicated clubs to repurposed tennis courts.
Tournament Growth: Prize money and sponsorships are increasing, drawing larger crowds to events.
Training Programs: The rise in players has led to more coaching and instructional opportunities.
Digital Sales: In 2023, 55.8% of pickleball purchases occurred online.
The ongoing growth of pickleball highlights its appeal and accessibility, making it a significant player in the sports industry. As more people join the pickleball community, the sport is likely to continue thriving, attracting new players and investments.
News in Brief: Pickleball’s Economic Impact
Pickleball is the fastest-growing sport in the U.S., with 19.8 million pickleball players in 2024, a 45.8% increase from last year. Significant growth in infrastructure is also noted, with nearly 70,000 courts nationwide. The sport’s value is projected to rise to $7.9 billion by 2033.
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