Charles Barkley’s Comments on Pickleball: Charles Barkley, the former NBA star and sports commentator, has made it clear why he does not play pickleball. After a late-night Inside the NBA broadcast, Barkley caught an early flight to Birmingham for a Pro-Am golf event. He explained his choice in a way only he could.
Barkley’s Reason for Choosing Golf Over Pickleball
“The problem with pickleball is I don’t like playing with old people. When I go to the gym, I don’t want to play with no 80-year-olds.” – (Barkley)
He joked about not wanting to share the court with players who might remember the Truman administration. Barkley prefers golf because it lets him play with friends and enjoy a beer.
“Golf is interesting. It’s fun. It’s exciting. It’s one of the few sports you can play as you get older. I’m not stupid enough to try and play pickleball. That’s just stupid. But golf is one of the few sports you can play as you get older. It’s something you can do with your kids. It’s something you can do with your grandkids hopefully one day. It’s a very special game.” – (Barkley)
Pickleball’s Growing Popularity
Pickleball is now the fastest-growing sport in America. Many celebrities like LeBron James, Tom Brady, Patrick Mahomes, and Draymond Green have taken up the game. The sport is supported by major pro leagues such as Major League Pickleball (MLP) and the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA).
Despite its roots as a casual game for older adults, pickleball now features young players who earn six-figure prizes. The atmosphere at major events is often lively and exciting, similar to a music festival.
Barkley’s Comments and Their Place in Pickleball Culture
Charles Barkley’s joke about “old people” playing pickleball reflects a mix of truth and humor. While pickleball started as a pastime for older adults, it has rapidly changed into a sport for all ages. His comments highlight the old view of pickleball but do not reflect the sport’s current vibrant and youthful scene.
Future of Pickleball and Celebrity Interest
Pickleball continues to gain fans and investors from the sports world. Players from the NBA and NFL have embraced it, both as athletes and owners. Barkley’s preference for golf shows that not all athletes will switch to pickleball, but the sport’s popularity keeps growing.
News in Brief: Charles Barkley’s Comments on Pickleball
Charles Barkley prefers golf over pickleball because he doesn’t want to play with older people. He praised golf as a sport for all ages. Meanwhile, pickleball is rising in popularity, attracting young players and celebrities like LeBron James and Tom Brady, showing its growing appeal across generations.
ALSO READ: Pickleball Courts are Revolutionizing Community Spaces and Fitness Culture