“老头乐”匹克球，对年轻人来说刚刚好

Core Viewpoint - Pickleball is gaining popularity but faces challenges in becoming a mainstream sport, particularly in China, where it is still considered a niche activity [6][30]. Group 1: Popularity and Perception - Pickleball was designed to lower the intensity of play, making it more accessible, but this has led to a perception of it being less prestigious compared to tennis and badminton [9][10]. - Despite its growing presence on social media, pickleball lacks the viral potential seen in other sports, with limited engagement from celebrities and influencers [11][13]. - In the U.S., pickleball has seen a dramatic increase in players, growing from under 5 million in 2021 to over 50 million in just two years, indicating a significant trend [14][19]. Group 2: Market Dynamics - The global pickleball equipment market is projected to grow from $1.61 billion in 2024 to $3.1 billion by 2032, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.3% [19]. - The establishment of professional leagues like the UPA in the U.S. has contributed to the sport's commercialization and increased visibility [21][22]. - In China, the first pickleball court was built in 2010, but the sport is still in its early stages of development, primarily driven by returning expatriates [15][20]. Group 3: Challenges in China - The current infrastructure for pickleball in China is limited, with fewer than 100 dedicated courts in Beijing, many of which are repurposed from other sports [27]. - The perception of pickleball as a "low-end" sport may hinder its growth among younger demographics, who may prefer more intense or competitive sports [30][36]. - While there is potential for growth, the transition from casual play to regular participation remains a challenge, with many players uncertain about committing long-term [37].