一年300场赛事、花落鹤壁，匹克球有了“新身份”

Core Insights - Pickleball is rapidly gaining popularity globally, characterized as the "fastest-growing emerging racquet sport" due to its low entry barriers and strong social aspects [1][4] - The city of Hebi, Henan, has been designated as "China's Pickleball City," marking a strategic initiative to develop the sport and transform the local economy [2][4] Event and Market Growth - The China Tennis Association announced the 2025 National Pickleball Championship, set to take place in Hebi, with nearly 400 athletes from 25 provinces and regions participating [1][2] - Hebi has constructed over 800 pickleball courts and trained over 260 professional coaches and referees within two years, significantly increasing local participation [2][4] - The number of pickleball events in China is projected to exceed 300 by the end of the year, showcasing exponential growth in market activity and community engagement [6][10] Brand and Sponsorship Involvement - Major brands like Li Ning and Red Double Happiness are actively sponsoring pickleball events, indicating a growing commercial interest in the sport [6][8] - The involvement of brands extends beyond equipment to include event broadcasting and cultural products, creating a comprehensive industry ecosystem [8][9] Industry Structure and Standardization - The establishment of national standards for pickleball equipment and competition rules in 2024 has laid a foundation for organized play and professional development [10][12] - The China Pickleball Tour (CPC) has diversified into various event formats, enhancing the competitive landscape and attracting more participants [10][12] Youth Engagement and Future Prospects - Initiatives to introduce pickleball into schools aim to cultivate a new generation of players, ensuring long-term sustainability for the sport [12] - Government policies are increasingly supportive of emerging sports, further solidifying the growth trajectory of pickleball in China [12][13]