MLP Draws Massive Crowds: Major League Pickleball made a impressive debut in the nation’s capital, attracting thousands of sport loving fans and players to the Washington Tennis and Educational Foundation. The event, part of the league’s 2024 regular season, marked a historic moment as the first professional pickleball showcase in D.C.
A Growing Spectacle
MLP turnout exceeded expectations, with league officials estimating between 10,000 to 12,000 attendees over the four-day tournament. Adam Behnke, COO of the D.C. Pickleball Team, expressed his gratitude for the overwhelming support: “The fans showed up in such a cool way. This, to me, is the culmination of all the work we’ve done since we launched the club in December 2021, I’m just so humbled and impressed“.
This sport is an inspiration,” Beatrice Wycoff, who plays recreational pickleball in northern Virginia, said. It’s the best thing that could ever happen to anyone, I don’t care what age you are … It balances us all out. “We love pickleball. And to root for the D.C. team, come on. It’s local, it’s our home,” Wycoff said. The atmosphere has been amazing since we got here. What surprised me was just how comfortable it was. I didn’t know what to expect. Everyone is friendly and the music is bumping. What’s not to love?”-(Beatrice)
| Event | Major League Pickleball Showcase |
| Location |
Washington Tennis and Educational Foundation, Washington, D.C.
|
| Days | Thursday to Sunday |
| Season | 2024 Regular Season |
| Attendance | Between 10,000 to 12,000 |
From Niche to Mainstream
Once considered a pastime for retirees and former tennis players, pickleball has surged in popularity in recent years. Combining elements of ping pong and tennis, the sport attracted over 48 million players in 2023, according to the Association of Pickleball Professionals.
The Fastest-Growing Sport in America
Played on a modified tennis court with paddles and a plastic ball, pickleball has maintained its status as the fastest-growing sport in the U.S. for three consecutive years. Its accessibility and dynamic gameplay continue to captivate a diverse audience of all ages and backgrounds.
Looking Ahead
As Major League Pickleball gains traction across the country, events like the one in D.C. underscore its growing influence and appeal. With no signs of slowing down, pickleball is set to remain a fixture in the sports landscape, attracting new enthusiasts as sense of fellowship among players of all skill levels.
News In Brief: MLP Draws Massive Crowds in D.C.
Major League Pickleball debut in Washington, D.C., drawing thousands to the Washington Tennis and Educational Foundation for its inaugural professional showcase. The event, part of the 2024 season, surpassed expectations with an estimated 10,000 to 12,000 attendees. Adam Behnke, COO of the D.C. Pickleball Team, expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support, citing it as a culmination of efforts since the club’s inception. Pickleball, once niche, has exploded in popularity, attracting over 48 million players in 2023.
Also Read: Pickleball Growth in Recent Years: Stats and more
