“But what’s been really encouraging is that we’ve been able to retain a lot of those new participants. Tennis is clearly resonating with people, and we believe that it’s not just because it’s a safe, socially distanced way to stay active. Tennis offers a lot of benefits that keep people coming back for more.”
Tennis Participation Continues To Serve Up Success
With all of this growth and retention, the USTA is serving up quite a success story when it comes to tennis participation in the U.S. The sport has managed to ride the wave of the pandemic and turn it into a positive force for growth and engagement. And with the continued investment in infrastructure and programs, it seems likely that tennis will continue to be a major player in the American sports scene for years to come.
So if you’re looking for a new way to stay active and healthy, maybe it’s time to grab a racket and hit the court. With millions of Americans already enjoying the benefits of playing tennis, you might just find yourself among the growing number of enthusiasts who are serving up success on the tennis court.
The latest data has shown that tennis has earned the title of “World’s Healthiest Sport” according to a study published in the Mayo Clinic Proceedings. This study revealed that individuals who regularly played tennis lived 9.7 years longer than those who did not participate in sports, surpassing the life expectancy benefits of other sports.
In the United States, tennis participation has seen a significant increase, with the number of Core players reaching an all-time high of 13 million in 2024. Core players are defined as individuals who have played tennis at least 10 times over a 12-month period, representing half of all tennis participants. This surge in participation has highlighted the growing diversity within the sport, moving away from the previous stereotype of tennis being an upper-class homogeneous activity.
Notably, the 2024 statistics showcased a 26 percent growth in Black/African American participation and a 15.4 percent increase in Hispanic participation. Additionally, there was a 17 percent rise in senior players, bringing their total to 302,000. This shift towards a more diverse player base emphasizes the inclusivity and accessibility of tennis across various demographics.
As tennis continues to attract a wider range of participants, the need for more tennis courts and facilities becomes crucial. Many communities still lack adequate tennis infrastructure, while existing courts may require refurbishment to ensure safe and playable conditions. In response to this demand, the USTA has pledged an additional $10 million in grants to support the construction and renovation of courts nationwide.
The USTA’s Tennis Venue Services (TVS) grant program aims to enhance player experiences by improving facility design, management, and upkeep. This significant investment reflects the organization’s commitment to expanding access to tennis and creating a more inclusive environment for all players. The recent launch of the U.S. Open Legacy Initiative further underscores the USTA’s dedication to revitalizing public tennis facilities in honor of players like Coco Gauff.
Looking ahead to 2025, tennis enthusiasts are optimistic about the sport’s continued growth and impact on American communities. By prioritizing player retention and enhancing infrastructure, tennis can serve as a safe and affordable physical activity option for individuals of all backgrounds. As the momentum for tennis participation continues to grow, the sport’s positive influence on health and wellness in the U.S. is poised to make a lasting impact for years to come.
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