Squash Chosen Over Pickleball for 2028 Olympics: In a notable decision, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has selected squash for inclusion in the 2028 Los Angeles Summer Games, leaving pickleball out of the Olympic lineup for now. This development has ignited discussions among sports fans and experts alike.
The IOC’s selection process for Olympic sports is based on strict criteria. To qualify for inclusion, a sport must demonstrate extensive global practice and meet specific standards for geographical and gender representation. Specifically, a sport must be played by men in at least 75 countries across four continents and by women in at least 40 countries across three continents.
Currently, the World Pickleball Federation reports that pickleball is played in 60 countries across all six continents. While this reflects impressive growth, it falls short of the IOC’s requirements. In contrast, squash meets these global participation standards, making it a suitable choice for the Olympics.
Squash has a well-established international presence, with significant participation across numerous countries. Its long history and consistent efforts to achieve Olympic inclusion likely influenced the IOC’s decision. Squash’s global reach aligns with the IOC’s criteria, enhancing its chances of being featured in the 2028 Games.
Pickleball has experienced rapid growth, especially in the United States, where it has become a major cultural phenomenon. Despite its increasing popularity, pickleball remains primarily an American sport with limited global penetration. The sport’s current focus is mainly in North America, and it has yet to achieve the widespread international presence required for Olympic inclusion.
Although pickleball will not debut in the 2028 Olympics, its future remains promising. The sport’s rapid expansion and growing international footprint may position it for future consideration. Additionally, other racquet sports such as padel, which also boasts a strong international following, might be considered before pickleball.
News in Brief: Squash Chosen Over Pickleball for 2028 Olympics
Squash has been chosen for the 2028 Olympics over pickleball due to stringent IOC criteria. For Olympic inclusion, a sport must be played by men in at least 75 countries across four continents and by women in 40 countries across three continents. While pickleball is growing rapidly and is played in 60 countries, it has not yet met these global thresholds. Squash, with its established international presence, fits the IOC’s criteria, ensuring its spot in the Games. Pickleball, though popular, particularly in the U.S., will need more global reach before it can be considered for future Olympics.
