## Pickleball’s Rise in China: A New Court for the Sport
Pickleball, the fast-growing sport in the U.S., is experiencing a rapid surge in popularity in China. Here’s a breakdown of what’s happening:
- Booming Sales: Online sales of pickleball equipment in China have skyrocketed, with monthly sales averaging $1.2 million as of July, a six-fold increase from the previous year.
- Driving Factors: The sport’s growth is fueled by a shift towards active lifestyles, social media influencers, and the resurgence of tennis, particularly after China’s first Olympic gold medal in tennis singles.
- Growing Interest: Interest in racquet sports, including pickleball, has been accelerating since 2023 and is expected to continue growing.
- Professional Scene: The first “Hong Kong Open” competition saw a large crowd, with the tournament maxed out and a waitlist. The PPA Tour Asia is expanding with matches in Japan, Malaysia, and Vietnam.
- Business Implications: Unlike the U.S., pickleball courts in China are primarily built and operated by businesses for profit. The sport’s development is also systemized through the Chinese Tennis Association.
- Accessibility: Pickleball’s appeal lies in its ease of learning, making it more accessible than tennis for many. Local schools are also encouraging students to play.
- Market Challenges: Foreign brands face challenges in entering the Chinese market due to language barriers and the unique WeChat ecosystem.
- Economic Outlook: The rise of pickleball coincides with subdued retail sales, but experts are optimistic about a pickup in consumer spending in the coming years.
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Source: https://www.cnbc.com/2025/09/02/pickleball-is-just-getting-started-in-china.html