Pickleball Growth and Tennis Impact: More people in the U.S. are playing tennis than ever before, and some believe pickleball might be part of the reason. While most players are still moving from tennis to pickleball, a few are now picking up tennis again, thanks to the confidence and enjoyment they’ve found in pickleball.
Most Pickleball Players Come from Tennis
Staff from 8 racquet clubs in California, Texas, Florida, and Arizona said most players go from tennis to pickleball, not the other way. At The Tennis & Pickleball Club of Newport Beach, a staff member reported they have “never seen pickleball to tennis.”
Adam from Fort Myers Racquet Club added, “About 80% of our players are tennis to pickleball,” mostly seniors who “have moved away from tennis because of the larger size of the court.”
In Texas, Samuel Grand Tennis and Pickleball in Dallas noted that pickleball is “more social and less competitive,” and popular with younger players who “want to play with their friends.”
Pickleball Seen as More Social and Easy
Many enjoy pickleball for its fun and social feel. Though some see it as less competitive, others believe the sport has a serious side too. Some younger players, not used to sports, are drawn to it for the community feel.
Some clubs even include extras like dining, drinks, or yoga. But tennis still takes more time, effort, and gear, making it less appealing to casual players. Pickleball is easier to start and often less intense.
Tennis Numbers Still Climbing
Even as pickleball grows, tennis isn’t shrinking. According to the USTA, 25.7 million Americans played tennis in 2024. One in 12 Americans picked up a racket last year. Most of this growth came from people under 35.
This shows that tennis is doing well even as pickleball gets more popular.
Some Players Return to Tennis After Pickleball
Although rare, some players are returning to tennis because of pickleball. One woman, who hadn’t played tennis in years, said her success in pickleball made her want to pick up tennis again.
A staff member at DC Ranch Village Tennis Center in Scottsdale said that while there aren’t many pickleball-to-tennis players, those who do switch back are usually past tennis players.
Tennis and Pickleball Can Grow Together
Pickleball might not send many players to tennis for now. But for some, it inspires confidence and a return to the sport they once loved. As both games gain players, there’s room for both to grow without hurting each other.
Whether it’s the social side or the serious side, both sports are thriving—and that’s good news for everyone.
News in Brief: Pickleball Growth and Tennis Impact
Though most people still switch from tennis to pickleball, some players are now picking up tennis again. Club staff say this trend is small but real. With 25.7 million Americans playing tennis in 2024, both sports appear to be growing side by side, offering fun for all skill levels.
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