## Pickleball’s Rise in China: A New Court for the Sport
Pickleball, a sport that has exploded in popularity in the U.S., is now making waves in China. Here’s a quick rundown of what’s happening:
- Rapid Growth: Online sales of pickleball equipment in China have surged, with monthly sales averaging $1.2 million as of July, a six-fold increase year-over-year.
- Driving Forces: The sport’s popularity is fueled by a broader interest in active lifestyles, social media influencers, and the resurgence of tennis, especially after China’s first Olympic gold medal in tennis singles.
- Market Dynamics: Unlike the U.S., pickleball courts in China are often built and operated by businesses for profit, leading to a more systemized development of the sport.
- Early Adoption: The sport is gaining traction in local schools, with courts being built in sports clubs and repurposed from other facilities.
- Challenges for Foreign Brands: While the market holds significant potential, foreign businesses face challenges due to language barriers and the unique digital ecosystem in China.
- Consumer Sentiment: The growth in pickleball spending comes as overall retail sales in China have been subdued, 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