Pickleball is a rapidly growing sport that is gaining popularity around the world. While it is still relatively new in many countries, the sport is quickly spreading and gaining recognition as a competitive and exciting game. In this blog post, we will explore the status of pickleball in countries outside the US and the chances of it becoming an Olympic sport.
Pickleball has already gained a foothold in several countries outside the US, including Canada, Australia, Spain, and the UK. In Canada, the sport has seen tremendous growth in recent years, with more than 1,500 pickleball courts now available across the country. In Australia, the sport is gaining popularity among players of all ages, with pickleball clubs and tournaments now available in many cities. In Spain, the sport is becoming more recognized as a competitive game, with a growing number of players and clubs across the country. And in the UK, the sport is gaining popularity among older adults as a low-impact form of exercise.
Despite its growing popularity, pickleball is not currently recognized as an Olympic sport. However, there have been efforts to include pickleball in the Olympics, with some organizations pushing for its inclusion in the 2028 Games in Los Angeles. While it's unclear if and when the sport will become an Olympic event, the growing interest and participation in pickleball worldwide suggest that it has a good chance of gaining recognition as a competitive sport.
There are several factors that could help pickleball become an Olympic sport. First, the sport's growing popularity and global appeal make it an attractive addition to the Olympic lineup. Second, the sport's accessibility and ease of play make it a great fit for the Olympic ethos of promoting inclusivity and diversity. Finally, the sport's competitive nature and strategic gameplay make it an exciting and engaging game for players and spectators alike.
While pickleball is still a relatively new sport in many countries outside the US, its growing popularity and accessibility make it a promising candidate for inclusion in the Olympics. With more players and clubs emerging around the world, it's clear that pickleball is here to stay, and we can expect to see more exciting developments in the sport in the coming years.