Pickleball Joins the Top 10 Fastest Growing Sports: The global sports landscape is continually evolving, with new disciplines capturing audience attention and participation. In an age where fan engagement and media coverage are at an all-time high, various sports are assured for exponential growth in 2024. Let’s look into some of the fastest-growing sports around the world that enthusiasts should keep an eye on.
Pickleball: The Rising Star
- Most Popular Country: USA
- Year Invented: 1965
- Equipment: Court, net, paddle, and pickleball
- Prominent Players: Megan Fudge, Anna Leigh Waters, Ben Johns
Among the roster of emerging sports, pickleball has emerged as a true phenomenon. In the United States, it stands out as the fastest-growing sport, fueled by its accessibility and appeal across age groups.
The participation rate has skyrocketed by an astonishing 171.1% between 2018 and 2022. A report by the Association of Pickleball Professionals, highlighted by CNBC, indicates that over 36.5 million people engaged in the sport from August 2021 to August 2022.
The charm of pickleball lies in its unique blend of tennis, badminton, and ping pong, making it an engaging sport that is easy to learn. With local clubs, community centers, and schools increasingly investing in pickleball facilities, the sport’s grassroots appeal is evident.
Prominent players such as Megan Fudge, Anna Leigh Waters, and Ben Johns have contributed to its popularity, inspiring new players to take up paddles and join the fun.
| Sport | Global Fan Appeal (Millions) |
| Mixed Martial Arts | 451 |
| Drone Racing | 320 |
| Table Tennis | 300 |
| Esports | 285.7 |
| Climbing | 44.5 |
| Pickleball | 36.5 |
| Padel | 30 |
| Women’s Football | 29 |
| Rugby Sevens | 8.46 |
| Formula One | 5.7 |
Looking Ahead
With its grassroots appeal and the increasing availability of pickleball facilities, the sport’s growth seems sustainable for the foreseeable future. Community initiatives and youth programs are fostering a new generation of players, ensuring that pickleball remains a staple in recreational sports.
Meanwhile, other sports are similarly tapping into new audiences, reflecting broader trends in sports engagement across diverse demographics and cultures.
As 2024 approaches, the spotlight will likely shine even brighter on these emerging sports, showing the dynamic nature of global athletics.
With increased investment, promotion, and participation, the sports world is ready for an exciting transformation that could redefine how fans engage with their favorite activities.
News in Brief: Pickleball Joins the Top 10 Fastest Growing Sports
The global sports landscape is evolving, with several sports set to experience significant growth in 2024. Pickleball, the fastest-growing sport in the U.S., saw a 171.1% increase in participation from 2018 to 2022, with over 36.5 million players noted between August 2021 and August 2022.
Prominent players like Megan Fudge, Anna Leigh Waters, and Ben Johns are fueling this growth. Other rapidly growing sports include mixed martial arts, drone racing, table tennis, esports, and climbing, each attracting millions of fans worldwide. This trend highlights the diverse interests of modern sports audiences and signals an exciting future for emerging sports on the global stage.
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