What is Pickleball?
The History of Pickleball
Pickleball was born in 1965 on Bainbridge Island, Washington, when three friends—Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum—were looking for a way to entertain their families during the summer. Using a badminton court, a perforated plastic ball, and wooden paddles, they created what is now one of the fastest-growing sports in the world.
Over time, the sport evolved, official rules were established, and in 1984, the USA Pickleball Association (USAPA) was founded. Since then, its popularity has grown exponentially.
A Sport on the Rise
Pickleball’s growth has been exponential in recent years, becoming the fastest-growing sport in the United States and gaining traction in Europe and Latin America. Its accessibility, simple rules, and low physical impact have made it popular among people of all ages, including elite athletes and celebrities.
Its success comes from how easy it is to learn, its accessibility for all ages and skill levels, and the fast-paced nature of the game, which combines elements of tennis, paddle, ping-pong, and badminton.
Pickleball hasn’t just captivated millions of amateur players worldwide, but has also attracted celebrities and former professional tennis players who have found in this sport a fun and competitive way to stay active.
Major sports brands have started investing in pickleball, and more professional tournaments are offering million-dollar prize pools, with organized leagues like the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) and Major League Pickleball (MLP).
Celebrities Who Play Pickleball
Several celebrities have expressed their love for pickleball, whether for fun or as an investment in the growing sports industry. Some of the most notable names include:
- Leonardo DiCaprio – The actor has been seen enjoying private matches with friends.
- Bill Gates –
- One of the earliest pickleball enthusiasts, he’s been playing since the 1970s.
- Ellen DeGeneres – She has promoted the sport on her show and plays regularly.
- LeBron James – Along with other investors, he purchased a team in Major League Pickleball.
- Tom Brady – The legendary NFL quarterback also invested in a professional pickleball team.
- Jamie Foxx – He launched his own line of pickleball products.
- Emma Watson – The British actress has been seen playing at private events.
Former Tennis Pros Who’ve Embraced Pickleball
Pickleball has caught the attention of former professional tennis players, who have found in it a new form of competition and entertainment. Some of the most notable names include:
- John McEnroe – Has participated in pickleball charity events.
- Andre Agassi – Competes in exhibitions and special pickleball tournaments.
- Andy Roddick – Has shown interest in the sport and played in events with other pros.
- James Blake – Now an investor in the pickleball league and an occasional player.
- Martina Navratilova – Has joined the promotion of pickleball and plays frequently.
Pickleball’s impact on pop culture and the sports world continues to rise, and with such influential figures backing it, its future looks brighter than ever.
Rules:
Learn the basic rules of pickleball and get ready to enjoy the game with full confidence.
1. The Court
The game is played on a court 13.4 m long x 6.1 m wide (similar to a badminton court).
The net is 91 cm high at the ends and 86 cm in the center.
2. Equipment
It’s played with a solid paddle (no strings) and a perforated plastic ball.
3. Game Formats
It can be played in singles (one vs. one) or doubles (two vs. two).
4. The Serve
The serve must be underhand, striking the ball below the waist and sending it diagonally to the opponent’s court.
The serve must land in the opposite service zone and cannot touch the “no-volley zone” (also known as the “kitchen”).
Only the serving team can win points.
5. The No-Volley Zone (“Kitchen”)
It’s a 2.1-meter area from the net on both sides.
Players cannot volley (hit the ball out of the air without a bounce) inside this zone.
6. Double Bounce Rule
After the serve, the ball must bounce once on the receiver’s side and once on the server’s side before volleying is allowed.
7. Scoring System
Games are played to 11 points, with a minimum 2-point lead required to win.
Only the serving team can score points.
8. Faults and Errors
Missing the serve or sending it out of bounds.
Volleying the ball while standing in the no-volley zone.
Hitting the ball before it has bounced on the serve receive or return.
Pickleball is an inclusive, exciting, and easy-to-learn sport, perfect for players of all ages and levels. Give it a try and enjoy its unique energy!