Pickleball Boom in Canada: Pickleball, once known as a backyard game played with a plastic ball and simple rules, is now growing fast around the world. With more than 50 million players globally and over 1.5 million in Canada, the sport is becoming more serious and competitive every year.
A Rapid Rise in Popularity
The Association of Pickleball Professionals says that pickleball has grown by over 300 percent in the last three years. It is now the fastest-growing sport in the world. In Canada alone, over 1.5 million people now play. What started as a fun and easy game is now played seriously in clubs and tournaments.
A Game That Was Meant to Be Fun
Pickleball began 60 years ago. It was invented in just a few minutes during a barbecue and was first played using leftover equipment. Its fun nature attracted many players. “A plastic whiffle ball, a forgiving set of rules, a nonsensical name—it should be obvious that nothing that happens on a pickleball court was ever intended to be taken too seriously,” said one observer.
Many people enjoyed that playful side. It allowed teenagers, parents, and even retirees to play together. “Indeed, for many players, that sense of goofy fun has been a big part of the appeal: a sport that doesn’t demand supernatural agility to play; one that teenagers, moms, dads, and retirees can enjoy together; one in which no one has to worry all that much about hits—whether to the back, to the wallet, or to the ego. Where do we sign up?” the same observer added.
New Tech, More Money, and Major Tournaments
Now, pickleball games have become more structured and competitive. There are rating systems to check skills, and players aim for a 5.0 level. Paddle makers are also improving their products with new shapes and special surfaces to help different playing styles.
Professional players can earn over $100,000 (U.S.) a year. Matches are broadcast on TV and streamed online. Some tournaments even offer big prize money and fame. There’s now a dedicated streaming channel for pickleball fans.
Canada’s Role in the Growth
In Canada, the sport is growing quickly. The Picklr, a U.S. company, is opening indoor pickleball franchises in 65 locations across Canada over the next five years.
Canadian companies are also investing. Aniviia Pickleball, Manta World Sport, and Combat Paddles are working on new paddle materials and are partnering with pro players. The Vancouver-based brand Hello Beautiful has created a line of clothing and gear made just for pickleball.
Bigger Stakes, Changing Game
Pickleball may have started as a fun and easy activity, but it’s changing. As more money and companies get involved, the game is becoming more serious. “For a sport that seemingly revelled in its whimsical gameplay and anticorporate vibe, it’s all a bit ironic. But such is the nature of growing up, isn’t it: in both life and sport, the stakes get higher, the competition heats up, and the players become more determined. And as big money takes over, even the most beloved of games turn out to be not all fun and games,” said a source.
Even as it enters the big leagues, many still hope that pickleball keeps the spirit that made it so popular in the first place.
News in Brief: Pickleball Boom in Canada
Pickleball is now the world’s fastest-growing sport, with over 50 million players globally. In Canada, the sport is expanding fast, with new companies, equipment, and pro leagues taking it to the next level. Though it started as a lighthearted game, it’s quickly becoming big business.
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