If you’ve followed the headlines, you know that the relationship between pickleball and tennis has been…tense, to say the least.

Despite concerns that pickleball’s explosive growth would hurt tennis, it seems the opposite is true.

New data from the US Tennis Association itself suggests the surge in pickleball has coincided with—and possibly even contributed to—tennis's own growth. More below.

Symbiosis, Baby

The U.S. Tennis Association (USTA) itself says tennis participation grew to 25.7 million in 2024, marking its fifth straight year of growth (& what else has been growing rapidly the last 5 years?).

Young players under 35 are fueling this surge, showing that racquet sports as a whole are thriving.

What’s the connection? There are two main explanations for this:

→ The accessibility of pickleball. The sport’s shorter learning curve & social atmosphere make it an easy entry point for people who may have never considered picking up a racquet.

Once engaged in pickleball, some players develop an interest in other racquet sports, including tennis.

→ Many facilities have adapted by offering both sports, rather than choosing one over the other. This shared space model allows people to experience both games and transition between them as they see fit.

Some pickleball enthusiasts may eventually seek out the faster pace and greater physical demands of tennis, contributing to its player base.

Instead of fighting for space, tennis and pickleball can grow together. The USTA is investing $10 million in court expansion in 2025, a move that benefits both sports.

Correct These Drop Mistakes

BRING THIS TO THE COURT: Because so many pickleballers come from tennis, they may not be used to the touch required to successfully “drop” the ball in the kitchen from anywhere on the court.

We can diagnose the issue. Just pay attention to these key areas and you’ll be dropping consistently in no time:

❌ Too big of a swing – A large swing makes it harder to control speed.
✅ Keep it compact, whether you’re slicing or rolling.

❌ Changing swing speed – Many players slow down or speed up at the last second.
✅ Your swing should stay smooth and gradual.

❌ Too much topspin – A roll drop needs some downward rotation, but don’t overdo it.
✅ Keep it soft and low, prioritizing placement over spin.

❌ Off-balance shots – Both feet should be grounded when hitting a drop.
✅ If you’re off-balance, you’re better off driving the ball.

❌ Forcing down-the-line shots – Crosscourt drops are often the smarter play.
✅ The net is lower in the middle, you have more space to work with.

Above all: don’t overcomplicate the drop. The motion is fluid and simple, so just drill it until you don’t have to think anymore.

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Darius Christian: From SNL50 to the Pickleball Courts

Grammy-winning musician Darius Christian has played (music) with icons like Macklemore and Mumford & Sons and even performed at SNL’s 50th anniversary. But when he’s not on stage, you’ll likely find him on the pickleball court.

When Darius first picked up a paddle, it was love at first swing. Originally a table tennis fan, he quickly became hooked on pickleball during the pandemic. Now, he travels with his paddle, scheduling games wherever he goes, training seriously, and working toward his coaching certification.

For Darius, pickleball is more than a game—it’s a key part of his personal journey.

As a Black musician and athlete, Darius sees both the diversity and the gaps in pickleball.

“At the rec level, it’s wonderfully diverse. But at the pro level, there are only a few Black and Brown players, and that needs to change.”

He also wants to preserve pickleball’s welcoming spirit: “We can’t turn it into some exclusive club.”

Training with top pros, competing, and inspiring more players, Darius is just getting started. His advice for new players? Know your ‘why,’ embrace the learning process, and have fun.

And if you hear someone call “Juice Box Jones” on the court, you’ll know he’s nearby.

You’ve got to read his full story.

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