Archive · 17 Jun 2025
Pickleball's Global Rise: Popularity Surges in Asia and UK
Pickleball, a sport played with paddles and a perforated ball, is becoming very popular worldwide, like in Asia and the UK.
A new study showed many people in Asia know about pickleball, and many play it every month.
People enjoy it because it's fun, easy to learn, and good for your health.
The game is played on a smaller court than tennis, which makes it easier to play.
The game was invented in the 1960s as a family game.
The growing popularity is due to its ease of play and social aspects.
Pickleball's popularity is rapidly increasing, especially in Asia and the UK.
A recent study shows rising awareness and engagement in Asia, with 1.9 billion familiar with the sport.
Approximately 282 million in Asia play monthly, and 812 million have played at least once.
Southeast Asia, led by Vietnam and Malaysia, shows the most significant growth in awareness.
The sport's accessibility, fun, and health benefits contribute to its widespread appeal.
- Who
- Players of all ages and skill levels, including novices and seasoned athletes.
- What
- Pickleball's increasing popularity and growth in awareness and engagement.
- When
- The study was published this week; awareness has increased in the last two years.
- Where
- Asia (China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Chinese Taipei, Hong Kong, Thailand, and Vietnam) and the UK.
- Why
- Accessibility, enjoyment, health benefits, and social aspects contribute to the sport's appeal.
- Court Size
- 44 feet by 20 feet
- Net Height
- 34 inches
- Familiar in Asia
- 1.9 billion individuals
- Monthly Players (Asia)
- Approximately 282 million
- Played at least once (Asia)
- 812 million
- Origin
- 1965 by Joel Pritchard and friends
- UK Membership Increase
- 65% in the last 12 months