As warmer weather opens up more outdoor opportunities in the northern hemisphere, a seasoned writer’s thoughts turn to Pickleball, a sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong.
Shameless personal anecdote: I’ve played countless sets of tennis and entered several tournaments in my younger days, even winning one in a fierce three-set final against a good friend, with most games going to several deuces, not to mention a couple of outbursts from both he and I on close line calls. With my overall results and that victory in mind, and playing and practicing every day, I thought I was on my way to a professional career. However, fantasy crashed into reality when we moved to California, and I joined the high school tennis team. I was No. 5, and our No. 1 player was one of the best in Northern California. When I played him in an intrasquad match, I realized I better consider other career options after he wiped the court with me in a 6-1, 6-0 drubbing. That love set was the first time I got skunked 6-0 in either a friendly or a tournament match. I’ve played plenty of ping-pong and the odd badminton match, but Pickleball? Nope, I haven’t played it yet, although I intend to try it at least once. But I digress.
Pickleball has surged in popularity in recent years, with courts popping up everywhere like weeds in a garden. It’s actually been around since the 1960s, and I remember reading about it during my tennis life and seeing pictures in tennis magazines (There was no Internet back then). Like the tennis boom in the 1970s, Pickleball is enjoying its own boom, with millions across the globe taking up the game. As of 2025, there are an estimated 20 million pickleball players in the U.S. alone.
Pickleball’s popularity is attributed to its accessibility and social nature. The game is a quick learn, making it appealing to newcomers, while its fast pace of play keeps experienced players coming back for more. The smaller court size compared to tennis leads to quick rallies without players wearing themselves out. And, like any sport, it also creates a sense of community and friendships among participants.
The sport has seen significant growth across various age groups, with the 25-34 age bracket reportedly boasting the largest number of players. Additionally, Pickleball’s low-impact nature has made it particularly appealing to older adults, who appreciate its health benefits without the high strain of more intense sports, including tennis, where your opponent can have you running from one end of the baseline to the other and then forcing you to the net when he hits a drop shot and then back you go when he hits an offensive lob.
So, whether you are young or old, in phenomenal shape or not so phenomenal shape, or if you find age and mobility challenges leave you somewhat limited, Pickleball offers something for everyone, making it an integral part of the sporting landscape for years to come.
John Berkovich Talks 