Bill Gates on Pickleball: Microsoft co-founder and philanthropist Bill Gates is among the high-profile figures who have openly embraced pickleball as a favorite pastime. While many have recently discovered the sport, Gates has been playing for decades, calling himself a “pickler” for 50 years.
Pickleball’s Rise as America’s Fastest-Growing Sport
Pickleball, a mix of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, has rapidly become a global phenomenon. It has been the fastest-growing sport in the U.S. and worldwide for two consecutive years.
Known for its accessibility, simple rules, and appeal across all age groups, the sport continues to attract millions of new players. Gates, 69, highlighted his love for the game in a recent interview with Times Now when asked how he unwinds despite his busy schedule.
“Well, in my 20s, I worked all the time – you know, no vacations, no weekends. And as I have gotten older, you know, had a family, I still work long hours but not nearly like those early days. I get to play a lot of tennis, a funny American game called pickleball, and a card game not many people play called bridge – I am big on that.” – (gates)
“I read a lot, I watch a lot of movies – you know, so I’m very lucky. Even when I travel, sometimes I get to take time off – not on this trip, but on some of them.” – (gates)
A Lifelong Connection to Pickleball
Gates’ love for pickleball is deeply rooted in his past. The sport, invented in 1965 on Bainbridge Island, Washington, holds special significance for him since his father, Bill Gates Sr., was a close friend of its three inventors: Bill Bell, Barney McCallum, and Joel Pritchard. In 2022, Gates revealed his decades-long association with the game in a Gates Notes YouTube video titled “I’m a Pickler.”
“It is kind of stunning that 50 years after it was invented, it started to take off and now has incredible momentum.” – (gates)
Encouraging others to try the sport, he added, “And if you and your family are bored and looking for something to do this summer, I encourage you to become one too.” – (gates)
Pickleball’s Growing Popularity Shows No Signs of Slowing
As pickleball continues to dominate the sports world, influential figures like Gates help bring even more attention to the game. With its strong community appeal and rapid expansion, pickleball is set to remain a key part of America’s sports culture for years to come.
News in Brief: Bill Gates on Pickleball
Bill Gates, a lifelong fan of pickleball, calls it a “funny American game” but has been playing it for 50 years. The sport, invented in 1965, has skyrocketed in popularity, becoming the fastest-growing in the U.S. Gates, whose father knew the game’s inventors, encourages others to pick up a paddle.
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