Pickleball's Growth in Europe: A Focus on Youth Development
The Rise of Pickleball in Europe
Pickleball is experiencing a surge in popularity beyond North America, with its influence spreading throughout Europe. This growth is marked by the establishment of new clubs, professional tournaments, and initiatives aimed at youth development. Initially, the sport attracted adult players transitioning from tennis, padel, and squash, but there is now a significant shift towards engaging younger athletes to create sustainable competitive pathways.
A key event highlighting this shift will be the Next Gen Pickleball Youth Tournament, set to take place in June 2026 in Italy. This tournament is specifically tailored for Europe’s top under-18 players and is organized by Pickleball Italia, Pickleball Colle, and Flash News Pickle. Scheduled for June 20 and 21 in Colle di Val d’Elsa, near Siena, the event aims to become a staple in the European youth sports calendar as pickleball continues to grow across the continent.
The tournament will feature competitions for both boys and girls in the Under-14 and Under-18 categories, targeting players born between 2008 and 2014. Events will include singles and doubles matches, with results linked to the DUPR rating system, a widely recognized international ranking framework in the sport. Organizers believe this tournament will fill a significant gap in the European pickleball landscape by providing structured youth competition.
While participation in pickleball has steadily increased in countries like France, Italy, Spain, Germany, and the UK, much of this growth has been focused on adult recreational play. Until recently, opportunities for junior players and dedicated youth tournaments were scarce. However, this trend is changing as clubs and federations across Europe begin to introduce divisions for under-12, under-14, under-16, and under-18 players into their domestic circuits. Additionally, pickleball schools, training camps, and junior coaching programs are becoming more prevalent.
Italy has emerged as a leading force in this expansion, witnessing a notable increase in pickleball infrastructure, including new clubs, courts, and organized competitions. Institutional interest in the sport has also surged, with Italy set to host an official PPA Tour stop in 2026. The introduction of a youth-focused event further solidifies Italy's role in the evolving European pickleball scene. The tournament will be hosted at Pickleball Colle on Via Liguria in Siena, with registrations managed through the RAQT platform. As pickleball continues to evolve in Europe, organizers hope that events like the Next Gen Pickleball Youth Tournament will foster stronger pathways for young athletes and promote the sport's long-term competitive growth in the region.