Olympic Ambitions: Could Pickleball Make It to Paris 2028?

Pickleball has exploded into a global phenomenon—captivating players of all ages and skyrocketing in popularity. With its athleticism, spectator appeal, and adaptability, one question has surged to the forefront: Could pickleball earn a place in the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles? Here's a comprehensive exploration of the current landscape and the steps needed for Olympic inclusion.

The IOC Criteria: What It Takes to Join the Games

To be included in the Olympics, a sport must:

• Demonstrate widespread global participation—played in at least 75 countries for men and 40 for women.
• Be governed by a single, unified international federation recognized by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
• Align with Olympic values—fair play, inclusivity, and global reach.

These benchmarks ensure that a sport represents diversity, organization, and integrity—areas where pickleball is making rapid progress.

Governance: Moving Toward Unity

Pickleball’s fragmented leadership—with bodies like the International Pickleball Federation (IPF), World Pickleball Federation (WPF), Global Pickleball Federation (GPF), and Pickleball International Committee (PIC)—has hindered unified representation. However, recent consolidation marks critical progress: the IPF and WPF merged in June 2025, forming a single entity in Lausanne, Switzerland—the heart of Olympic governance. This unification brings pickleball one step closer to IOC recognition.

Momentum Through Demonstration Events

Exhibition and demonstration events serve as vital stepping stones. Just as sports like climbing and skateboarding debuted before going official, pickleball could follow suit. Demonstration matches at Paris 2024 and Los Angeles 2028 would provide valuable exposure and demonstrate the sport’s excitement and global appeal.

International Reach: Expanding Court by Court

Pickleball’s international expansion is undeniable:

• Over 19 million U.S. players, with the sport growing 223% over three years.
• National governing bodies established in over 75 nations.

Grassroots clubs and national leagues across Asia, Europe, Africa, and the Americas are propelling the sport toward IOC standards of global representation.

Aiming Beyond 2028

Although pickleball did not meet the late adoption requirements for Paris 2024 or LA 2028. insiders remain optimistic. An IOC member remarked, “If we want you in, you’re in,” emphasizing that future entry is very much attainable.

Experts suggest that with unified governance and continued growth, official inclusion by 2032 in Brisbane is the more realistic—but achievable—target.

Challenges on the Path

Several hurdles remain:

• Governance consolidation: A singular, transparent federation must be fully operational.
• IOC recognition: The newly unified body must align with Olympic norms and global governance standards.
• Global penetration: Continued expansion into underrepresented regions remains crucial.

Ongoing coordination among continental federations (EPF, AFP, CAP, OPF, PFA) shows promise in establishing cohesive grassroots and national representation.

Why 2028 Still Matters

Los Angeles 2028 marks a critical milestone. Hosting a demonstration sport during the Games could catapult pickleball’s visibility, attract sponsors, and ignite youth interest. Though not officially part of the program, a high-profile exhibition could cement pickleball's case for future inclusion.

Looking Ahead

In summary:

• Governance: Unified global federation now based in Lausanne.
• Global Reach: Strong growth, but ongoing development needed.
• Olympic Strategy: Demonstration at LA 2028 could set the stage for full inclusion.
• Timeline: Early entry more likely in 2032 Brisbane, with full recognition by 2036 considered realistic.

Pickleball's journey mirrors that of many modern sports—rapid growth, structural evolution, and strategic positioning. As governance and global investment align, the court is being set for pickleball's Olympic debut.

With its blend of athleticism, accessibility, and global enthusiasm, pickleball is fully poised to join Olympic ranks. Whether as a demonstration sport in 2028 or a medal event by 2032, the path is charted—and the countdown is on.