In recent years, a new star has emerged on the courts across the United States and around the world—pickleball. This fast-growing sport has captured the attention of athletes, retirees, kids, and entire families. But while pickleball is gaining fans at a record pace, many still wonder: What makes it so appealing? And how does it compare to its close relative—tennis?
THE BENEFITS OF PLAYING PICKLEBALL:
It’s Easy to Learn, Hard to Master
One of pickleball’s greatest strengths—it’s easy to start playing for pure beginners. With a smaller court, slower ball, and underhand serve, newcomers can quickly get the hang of the basics. But that doesn’t mean it’s boring—more experienced players engage in fast-paced, strategic rallies that demand agility, coordination, and mental sharpness.
It’s Great for All Ages and Abilities
Pickleball is accessible. The smaller court size, lighter paddles, and wiffle balls make it ideal for people of all fitness levels. Seniors appreciate the reduced physical strain compared to tennis, while younger players enjoy the quick action and competitive nature. It’s a rare sport where a 70- year-old and 16-year-old can be evenly matched.
It’s Joint-Friendly Movement
Unlike high-impact sports like basketball or running, which involve repetitive pounding on hard surfaces, pickleball’s smaller court and lighter movements reduce the strain on your knees, hips, and ankles. The underhand serve and compact strokes are also gentler on the shoulders and elbows compared to sports like tennis, where powerful overhand swings can lead to overuse injuries. This joint-friendly nature makes pickleball especially appealing to older adults, people recovering from injury, or anyone looking for a more sustainable way to stay active.
It’s Social and Community-Oriented
Pickleball isn’t just a game—it’s a social hub. Courts are typically busy with people of all ages chatting between games, offering encouragement, and rotating in for doubles matches. The community atmosphere is one of the most praised aspects of the game, helping players forge new friendships and stay mentally sharp.
It Supports Mental Health
Like all exercise, pickleball releases feel good endorphins, but the social connection and fun factor enhance its mental health benefits. It offers a way to relieve stress, stay engaged, and enjoy competition without the pressure often found in more formal sports settings.
Pickleball and Tennis: Siblings
Pickleball and tennis are often compared, and for good reasons.
• They share DNA—both are racquet sports, played on similar courts, and built on the foundations of hand-eye coordination, footwork, and strategy.
• Both are played on a court with a net, either indoors or outdoors.
• They can be played as singles or doubles.
• The strokes from pickleball can carry over to tennis—and vice versa.
• Both sports reward smart positioning, timing, and tactical decision-making.
• If you find a tennis court, a pickleball court will be nearby.
• The governing body of tennis, United States Tennis Association (USTA) for many decades has offered a teaching certification for tennis pros through its sibling company—United States Professional Tennis Association (USPTA). Around five years ago, USPTA started offering pickleball teaching certifications as well. Within the past year, USPTA has changed its name to Racquet Sports Professional Association (RSPA).
While tennis is often seen as the more traditional and prestigious of the two, pickleball brings a casual, inviting energy—just like a younger sibling who breaks the mold but keeps the family spirit alive.
Pickleball’s popularity isn’t a passing trend—it’s a movement. With its blend of accessibility, fitness, fun and community, it’s no surprise that so many people are picking up paddles. And while pickleball and tennis have their differences, they are not competitors—they are companions. Like siblings, they push each other, borrow from one another, and ultimately share a love for the game.
Whether you grew up playing tennis or are brand new to paddle sports, pickleball offers something for everyone. And with every serve, rally, and laugh on the court, it’s clear this sport is here to stay.
