Pickleball is just getting started in China

## Pickleball’s Rise in China: A New Court for the Sport

Pickleball, the sport that has taken the US by storm, is now making waves in China. Here’s a breakdown of the trend:

• Explosive Growth: Online sales of pickleball equipment in China have seen a massive surge, with monthly sales averaging $1.2 million as of July, a sixfold increase year-over-year.
• Driving Factors: The sport’s popularity is fueled by a growing interest in active lifestyles, social media influencers, and the resurgence of tennis, particularly after China’s first Olympic gold medal in tennis singles.
• Professional Interest: The inaugural PPA Tour Asia, including the Hong Kong Open, saw a large crowd and a waitlist, indicating strong interest in professional pickleball.
• Business Opportunities: Unlike the US, pickleball courts in China are primarily built and operated by businesses for profit, creating a competitive market. The Chinese Tennis Association is also involved in organizing tournaments.
• Accessibility: Pickleball’s appeal lies in its ease of learning, making it attractive to those who find tennis too challenging.
• Market Challenges: Foreign brands face hurdles in China, including language barriers and the unique WeChat ecosystem.
• Broader Economic Context: The rise of pickleball coincides with a shift in consumer spending, with expectations for a pickup in consumption as people move on from pandemic-related uncertainties.

For more details, you can read the original article on CNBC: [https://www.cnbc.com/2024/05/29/pickleball-is-booming-in-china-heres-why.html](https://www.cnbc.com/2024/05/29/pickleball-is-booming-in-china-heres-why.html)