Pickleball is just getting started in China

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

The pickleball craze isn’t just a U.S. phenomenon anymore! China is experiencing a rapid surge in the sport’s popularity, presenting exciting opportunities and challenges. Here’s a breakdown:

• Explosive Growth: Online sales of pickleball equipment in China have seen a six-fold increase, reaching an average of $1.2 million monthly.
• Driving Factors: The rise is fueled by a growing interest in active lifestyles, recreational sports, social media influencers, and the resurgence of tennis (thanks to a recent Olympic gold medal).
• Professional Interest: The first “Hong Kong Open” tournament drew large crowds, and the PPA Tour Asia is expanding to include matches in Japan, Malaysia, and Vietnam.
• Business Implications: Unlike the U.S., pickleball courts in China are often built and operated by businesses for profit, creating a competitive market. The sport’s development is also systemized by the Chinese Tennis Association.
• Accessibility & Appeal: Pickleball’s ease of learning is a key factor in its popularity, with local schools also encouraging participation.
• Market Challenges: Foreign brands face hurdles like language barriers and the unique WeChat ecosystem.
• Consumer Spending: The growth in pickleball aligns with a broader shift in consumer spending, as people move on from post-pandemic economic concerns.

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