LI NING(HK:02331) 3 6 Ke·2025-08-14 07:49Core Viewpoint - Pickleball is gaining popularity among young people in China, blending elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, and is seen as a potential next national sport [1][4][14] Group 1: Market Growth and Popularity - PadelOne is one of the first professional pickleball clubs in Beijing, offering various services including court rentals, member activities, and training sessions [4][6] - The club has seen a significant increase in participation, with membership groups nearing 1,000 and growing [6][9] - Data from Meituan indicates a surge in interest, with comments about pickleball increasing by over 147% and related orders rising by 836% in July [7][9] Group 2: Demographics and Accessibility - Initially popular among retirees due to its low physical demands, pickleball is now attracting a younger demographic, particularly those in their twenties and thirties [2][4] - The sport is characterized by its ease of entry, lower costs compared to badminton and tennis, and reduced risk of injury [5][6] Group 3: Industry Involvement and Product Offerings - Major sports brands like Adidas, Li Ning, and Skechers are entering the pickleball market, launching related products [8][9] - The global pickleball equipment market is projected to grow from $1.61 billion in 2024 to $3.1 billion by 2032, with a CAGR of 10.3% [9] Group 4: Infrastructure and Events - Cities are beginning to convert existing sports facilities into pickleball courts, with plans for significant expansions in places like Shanghai and Guangxi [12][14] - The sport will be featured in the 2024 Paris Olympics as a demonstration event, and a national pickleball tour is being established in China [12][14] Group 5: Future Potential - Experts suggest that while pickleball has the potential to become a national sport, it requires a comprehensive development system, including a competitive framework and youth training [14]