The Risks of Pickleball: How America’s Fastest Growing Sport is Impacting Operators and Insurance
Pickleball, America’s fastest-growing sport, is driving risks for operators as its popularity continues to soar. The sport, which saw a massive increase in players during the pandemic, has prompted gyms and leisure facilities to invest in new courts and events to cater to the trend.
According to the Sports and Fitness Industry Association, the number of pickleball players more than doubled from 3.5 million in 2019 to nearly nine million in 2022. Analysts from UBS predict that this figure will jump to 22.3 million this year.
However, with the rise in popularity, comes an increase in risks and injuries associated with the sport, especially among adults over 60. Nate Walker, senior vice president of SMIC, an Amwins group company specializing in sports, recreation, and event risks, highlighted the potential risks pickleball poses for sports organizations.
Pickleball-related injuries are on the rise and are expected to cost Americans $377 million in healthcare costs this year. These injuries can range from sprains, strains, and fractures to wrists, knees, ankles, and shoulders, often requiring costly surgical procedures and long recovery times.
To prevent costly claims for sports organizations, Walker emphasized the importance of implementing strong safety protocols and risk mitigation measures. This includes maintaining pickleball courts, inspecting equipment, providing emergency first aid equipment, and ensuring players are properly warmed up and hydrated before playing.
Overall, as pickleball continues to grow in popularity, sports organizations must be vigilant in managing the risks associated with the sport to ensure the safety of players and reduce the likelihood of costly claims.
