2028 Olympic debut for pickleball?
Pickleball’s Olympic Moment: Could 2028 Be the Year?
At PDI Capital, we’re always on the lookout for transformative opportunities in emerging markets, and few trends are as exciting as pickleball’s potential inclusion in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. A recent article from Super D24 claims that the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has given the green light for pickleball’s Olympic debut, sparking celebrations within Major League Pickleball (MLP) and the broader pickleball community. While this news is thrilling, let’s dive into what it means, the challenges ahead, and why pickleball’s Olympic aspirations could reshape the sport’s global landscape.
The Buzz Around Pickleball’s Olympic Bid
According to the Super D24 article, published November 20, 2024, IOC President Kirsty Coventry has reportedly approved pickleball for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, marking a historic milestone for a sport that has skyrocketed in popularity. With an estimated 36.5 million players in the U.S. alone in 2023 and a 223.5% growth rate over three years, pickleball’s appeal is undeniable. Its compact courts, simple rules, and accessibility to players of all ages and skill levels have made it a cultural phenomenon, particularly in the U.S., where Los Angeles will host the 2028 Games.
The article suggests that the IOC’s decision reflects pickleball’s alignment with the Olympic mission to embrace innovative, inclusive sports. Host cities can propose new sports, and Los Angeles’ deep connection to pickleball—evidenced by thriving local leagues and professional tournaments—makes it a natural fit. The sport’s fast-paced, spectator-friendly nature, already showcased on networks like ESPN, could captivate Olympic audiences, much like recent additions such as skateboarding and surfing.
Tempering the Excitement: Is the News Confirmed?
While the Super D24 report is exciting, it’s worth noting that no other major sources, including the IOC’s official channels, have confirmed pickleball’s inclusion in 2028 as of May 29, 2025. The IOC’s criteria for new sports are rigorous, requiring global participation (men in 75 countries across four continents, women in 40 countries across three) and a unified international governing body. Pickleball, with players in 60 countries across six continents, is close but may not yet meet these thresholds. Additionally, the sport’s governance is fragmented, with multiple organizations like the International Federation of Pickleball (IFP) and World Pickleball Federation working toward unification.
The 2028 Olympic program is already set, with sports like flag football, cricket, and squash approved, leaving limited room for new additions. The Olympic Charter also mandates that new sports be finalized three years before the Games, meaning time is tight. Without official IOC confirmation, the Super D24 claim should be approached cautiously, as it may reflect optimism rather than a done deal.
A Demonstration Sport or a Full Olympic Debut?
Even if pickleball doesn’t secure full Olympic status for 2028, it could shine as a demonstration sport. Demonstration sports allow emerging games to showcase their appeal during the Olympics without full medal status, as seen with sports like wushu in 2008. Los Angeles’ existing pickleball infrastructure and the sport’s U.S. popularity make it an ideal candidate for this platform. A successful demonstration could pave the way for official inclusion in 2032 (Brisbane) or 2036, giving pickleball time to meet IOC requirements.
The Super D24 article highlights MLP’s jubilant reaction, suggesting that even a partial Olympic presence could boost the sport’s profile. Professional leagues, backed by high-profile investors like LeBron James and Tom Brady, are already elevating pickleball’s visibility. An Olympic stage—whether as a demonstration or medal sport—would amplify this, attracting new players, sponsors, and global media attention.
Why It Matters for PDI Capital
For PDI Capital, pickleball’s Olympic potential is more than just a sporting milestone—it’s an investment opportunity. Olympic inclusion could drive demand for pickleball equipment, facilities, and media rights, creating a robust market for innovation. The sport’s low-cost infrastructure and inclusivity make it scalable, from community courts to professional arenas. Its appeal to diverse demographics, including seniors and youth, aligns with the Olympic spirit and PDI Capital’s focus on sustainable, high-growth sectors.
If the IOC has indeed greenlit pickleball, as Super D24 claims, the next steps will involve formalizing governance and expanding global participation. Even without confirmation, the sport’s trajectory suggests significant upside. A 2024 demonstration or 2028 debut could catalyze investment in training programs, tournaments, and infrastructure, particularly in untapped markets outside the U.S.
The Road Ahead
While the Super D24 article paints an optimistic picture, pickleball’s Olympic journey is likely still unfolding. The sport’s rapid growth, passionate community, and alignment with modern Olympic trends make it a strong contender, but hurdles like global reach and governance remain. At PDI Capital, we’re excited about pickleball’s potential to redefine sports culture and create new economic opportunities. Whether it’s a demonstration in 2028 or a full debut in 2032, pickleball is poised to make waves on the global stage.
For now, we’ll keep a close eye on IOC announcements and continue to explore how pickleball’s rise can drive value for our partners and investors. One thing is clear: this paddle-powered phenomenon is no longer just a backyard game—it’s a global contender with Olympic-sized dreams.