Pickleball’s increasing popularity has led to more reported injuries, particularly among older players. The most common injuries include wrist and lower leg fractures due to falls, as well as repetitive strain injuries similar to tennis elbow. While the sport offers great health benefits, it’s important for players—especially those over 50—to take precautions to prevent injuries.

Pickleball’s rise as the fastest-growing sport in the U.S. isn’t just about its accessibility, but also the physics that make it unique. From ball speeds that can reach 65 mph with topspin to the loud “pop” sound produced by a paddle, the sport’s dynamics are driven by aerodynamics and acoustics. Engineer Phil Hipol, aka “Professor Pickleball,” breaks down these mechanics, explaining how ball trajectory, player reactions, and even the sound generated during a match are influenced by scientific principles.

Anna Leigh Waters is quickly becoming the highest-paid pickleball player in the world, with her agent projecting over $3 million in earnings for 2024. The 17-year-old phenom, who started pickleball after Hurricane Irma displaced her family in 2017, has dominated the sport, holding the No. 1 spot in singles, doubles, and mixed doubles. She has signed endorsement deals with major brands like Fila and Carvana. As pickleball’s popularity grows, Waters is leading the charge, showing that both male and female players can find lucrative opportunities in the sport.

Pickleball is evolving from its traditionally slow-paced and left-side dominant nature into a fast, aggressive, two-sided sport. Historically, the player on the left side controlled the game while the right-side player mainly dinked and countered. But today’s pickleball features aggressive and dominant players on both sides of the court, signaling a new era in the sport where right-side players are stepping up and showing they can be just as impactful.

Pickleball Slam 2025 is bringing tennis legends Andre Agassi and Steffi Graf back to defend their title, this time against Andy Roddick and Eugenie Bouchard. With a $1 million prize on the line, the event will take place at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas on Feb. 16, airing on ESPN. After two successful events in Florida, this will be the Slam’s first Vegas edition, expecting over 6,750 attendees. Agassi, returning to his hometown, looks to continue his undefeated streak in the Pickleball Slam series.

Former tennis champion Andy Roddick is making a surprising pivot to acting by joining Ben Stiller in a new pickleball comedy called The Dink. The film will follow Jake Johnson as a washed-up tennis pro who reluctantly plays pickleball to win back his father’s respect. The cast also features Hollywood heavyweights Mary Steenburgen and Ed Harris. Stiller and Roddick are expected to play significant supporting roles, marking a big moment for the tennis star’s acting career. Production begins in November, and the film will be available on Hulu.

The upscale retirement community of Rossmoor has become a microcosm of growing political tensions nationwide, escalating after a heated pickleball brawl over Donald Trump. A physical altercation between two women ignited deeper issues around free speech, leading to the imposition of restrictions on political commentary and public demonstrations. Critics argue these policies infantilize seniors, likening them to being in a high school cafeteria. The dispute reveals broader concerns about curbing dissent in a community historically active in civil rights movements.

Pickleball is more than just a fun pastime—it offers numerous health benefits for players of all ages. The game helps boost cardiovascular fitness by keeping your heart pumping and muscles engaged, improving overall strength and endurance. Additionally, the social aspect of pickleball enhances mental well-being, making it an excellent activity for both body and mind. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced player, it’s a low-impact sport that can be enjoyed by everyone while promoting physical fitness and social connections.

If you’re looking to master the lob shot in pickleball, there are two simple strategies that can drastically improve your game. First, aim your lobs to your opponent’s backhand, making it harder for them to smash the ball. Many players struggle with power on their non-dominant side, giving you an advantage. Second, consider when to hit the lob. Disguising it during a dink rally, especially when your opponent expects a speed-up shot, is key to catching them off-guard and scoring easy points.

Pickleball is taking over the National Mall once again, with the highly anticipated return of the National Mall of Pickleball from September 27-29. Hosted by The Trust for the National Mall and Humana, this event will feature tournaments, clinics, and open play at the JFK Hockey Fields. With additional courts added this year, spots are expected to fill up fast. Players can now register for a free hour of doubles play, with paddles and balls available at no cost. Special events include a DMV invitational, university matches, and media competitions.

I had great expectations when it came to our years as empty nesters. I had heard it was the best time in a marriage, a period to travel the world, reconnect as a couple, sleep late on weekends unapologetically. But last year, my husband discovered pickleball.

Private pickleball courts may be the next target in the ongoing noise war, and Ross, CA, could be leading the charge. The affluent Marin County town is mulling a ban on private courts due to the sport’s incessant noise, which reaches twice the volume of tennis. With public complaints already stacking up across the country, this may signal a broader trend. As pickleball’s popularity grows, so do the conflicts with non-players, potentially setting the stage for stricter court regulations nationwide.

Pickleball may seem straightforward, but some rules trip up even seasoned players. From calling the ball out to navigating the kitchen line, these common mistakes lead to frustration on the court. One major confusion revolves around calling a ball “out”—players must see a clear space between the ball and the line. Serving rules also baffle players, especially regarding height and the kitchen line. Understanding these rules not only keeps games fair but also helps build confidence when dealing with disputes.

If you want to take your pickleball game to the next level, drilling at home or against a wall can be an excellent way to practice and refine your skills. While nothing beats time on the court, at-home drills can significantly improve touch, reflexes, and Top Spin, all while offering the flexibility of solo practice. With a focus on technique, consistency, and precision, these drills allow you to maintain and elevate your pickleball skills, preparing you for intense rallies and strategic points when you hit the court. Let’s explore the best drills to enhance your game.

Pickleball requires a mix of agility, timing, and strategic decision-making. To dominate the court, you must master key movements and responses for different game situations. Below are some essential strategies every advanced player should know, including shot choices, positioning, and how to handle different opponent tactics.

The 2025 professional pickleball calendar is shaping up to be a monumental year for fans of the sport. The Association of Pickleball Players (APP) has announced an impressive lineup of 14 main tour stops, along with 20 new events and 8 NextGen competitions. Meanwhile, the Pro Pickleball Association (PPA) is planning an equally full slate, including a new “Challenger” tour. On top of that, the Major League Pickleball (MLP) is expected to host 12-14 events, while the newly introduced Pickleball World Ranking (PWR) promises major prize pools.

Quick hands are essential for mastering volleys in pickleball, and it all starts with your paddle position. The optimal stance involves holding the paddle at the 11 o’clock position, favoring your backhand. This stance allows players to react quickly to body shots and switch to forehands efficiently. Whether the ball is coming fast or slow, maintaining a stable ready position reduces unnecessary movement and helps you stay in control.

Driving versus dropping the ball in pickleball can significantly impact the outcome of a rally. Driving is ideal when the ball is short and high, allowing you to apply pressure on your opponents. However, if the ball is short and low, it’s better to drop it, keeping the pace slow. If your opponent is late getting to the kitchen line, a drive can capitalize on their vulnerability, while topspin or backspin from your opponent may also influence whether you opt for a drive or a drop.

Jack Sock’s transition from tennis to pickleball is highlighted by his forehand technique, blending power, precision, and deception. His forehand is built on five key elements: footwork, grip, unit load, swing motion, and follow-through. Sock uses his legs to generate power, often adopting an open or semi-closed stance. By stepping into the ball with his dominant leg and maintaining a continental grip, Sock can disguise his shots, making it difficult for opponents to predict whether he’ll hit down-the-line or cross-court. His forehand’s explosive motion comes from a compact swing, where he rotates through his hips and keeps his paddle face slightly downward during the swing.

More and more homeowners with private pickleball courts are discovering a way to turn their passion for the game into a lucrative side business. By listing their courts on apps like Swimply, they’re able to share their amenities with others and earn extra income in the process. Take Michael Thompson, for instance, a retired teacher in San Diego, who built a vibrant backyard pickleball court. What started as a personal retirement project quickly turned into a profitable venture, bringing in $1,600 in the first year alone through rentals.