If you’ve heard of “pickleball,” chances are that you connect the sport with seniors. That’s not surprising, as it was the 55-plus set that began growing the sport at the end of last century. But today, pickleball is attracting players of every age as it becomes more and more popular across the U.S. and around the globe. 26
Pickleball is a combination of badminton, ping-pong and tennis. It’s played on a badminton-sized court with a low net like that used in tennis. Players use a bat that’s smaller than a tennis racquet (球拍), but larger than a ping-pong bat. 27 Most games are played to 11 points, with a two-point spread needed to win, and each game typically lasts just 15 to 20 minutes.
In 2021, more than 4.8 million people in the U.S. were playing pickleball. That’s about four times as many people as were playing in 2010, and makes pickleball one of the fastest-growing sports in the U.S. and North America. So, what’s the appeal?
28 Also, it doesn’t take a lot of time to play and is accessible, as players just need a racquet and ball. It provides a great exercise, too. And for experienced players, pickleball can become a fast-paced, strategic game. It’s also just plain fun.
In North America, indoor and outdoor pickleball courts can be seen everywhere. About 66 new locations open every month. In addition, the game is being introduced to kids in middle school and high school PE classes. 29 Many professional players are appearing.
Pickleball may even become an Olympic sport one day, especially if the International Federation of Pickleball (IFP) gets its way. Created in 2010, the IFP’s goal is to make pickleball universally present around the world. 30 IFP membership has spread fast to over 60 countries, including the U.S., Australia, Canada, China, India, Italy, Pakistan, the Philippines and Spain.
A.It’s well along the way. |
B.But what, exactly, is it? |
C.Then what is the reason behind this? |
D.It’s also a sport on many college campuses. |
E.Games may be played as singles or doubles. |
F.It has long been a favorite in places like community centers. |
G.That pickleball is easy to learn is perhaps the basis of its popularity. |