Ever feel like every time you scroll on social media, you see someone playing pickleball? Suddenly, your friends are talking about it, new courts are popping up, company team-building events include pickleball, and even celebrities are in on the hype.
As of March 2025, Courtsite, one of the platforms for booking sports courts, lists 113 venues, while AFA app has 75 venues—and that’s not even counting other booking platforms. That’s a massive leap from just a couple of years ago.
But why pickleball? Why not badminton (which we love), squash, or tennis? Let’s break it down—why this sport is taking over and why you might want to give it a shot too.
So, What’s the Deal with Pickleball?
Imagine if tennis, badminton, and ping-pong had a baby—that’s pickleball. It’s played on a smaller court than tennis, using a paddle and a plastic ball with holes. It’s easy to pick up, surprisingly fun, and way less intimidating than other racket sports.
Globally, pickleball is exploding. In the U.S., 48.3 million people played in 2023—more than double the number of tennis players. And now, Malaysia is catching on fast.
Why Pickleball? Why Not Badminton or Tennis?
1. It’s Way Easier to Learn
Tennis? You need years of practice to get good.
Badminton? Fast-paced and super demanding.
Pickleball, though? You can be a total beginner and still have a solid game in one session. The smaller court means less running, and the ball moves slower, so you don’t need insane reflexes to keep up.
2. Less Running, More Fun
Ever tried playing tennis for the first time and spent half the game chasing balls? Or played badminton and felt like you needed lightning speed just to keep up?
Pickleball slows things down. The court is smaller, so you don’t have to sprint all over the place, and the ball moves at a chill pace, giving you time to react. You still get a workout, but it’s way more enjoyable.
3. The Social Factor Is HUGE
One big reason pickleball is blowing up? It’s ridiculously social.
Unlike tennis, which is usually played one-on-one, pickleball is best played in doubles. That means more laughs, more teamwork, and more fun. If you enjoy playing sports with friends rather than just competing, this is for you.
4. Anyone Can Play (Yes, Even You)
Pickleball isn’t just for young, fit athletes. It’s one of the few sports where a 20-year-old can genuinely have fun playing against a 60-year-old.
It’s low-impact, so it’s easier on the joints, making it perfect for people who want to stay active without going all out.
Why Is Pickleball Blowing Up Online?
If you’ve noticed more pickleball content on your feed, you’re not alone. The sport is everywhere on TikTok and Instagram, with viral clips of insane rallies, celebs playing, and influencers getting hooked.
Even locally, sports communities are hopping on the trend, organizing meetups and tournaments. Brands are jumping in too, building new courts and running events to meet demand.
The hype is real, and it’s only getting bigger.
Where to Play Pickleball?
Now you’re interested (or at least curious). So, where do you actually play?
More and more places are adding pickleball courts, including:
- Sports centers & badminton halls – Some places are converting badminton courts for pickleball.
- Community parks – A few parks have started marking courts for casual games.
- Pickleball clubs – New clubs are forming across the country, offering games and coaching.
You can also DIY it—a pickleball court is about the same size as a badminton court, so all you need is a net, a paddle, and a few friends to play with.
So… Should You Try Pickleball?
Short answer? Yes.
Long answer? If you like fun, social, and easy-to-pick-up sports, pickleball is a no-brainer. Whether you’re someone who used to play badminton but wants something more chill, or just looking for a new weekend hobby, this might just be your next obsession.
And honestly? With the way pickleball is growing, now’s the best time to start—before the courts get fully booked!
Final Thoughts
Pickleball isn’t just another fitness trend—it’s here to stay. It’s fun, accessible, and perfect for anyone looking for a new sport to try. So the next time you scroll past a pickleball video, don’t just watch—grab a paddle and join the game!
Check out our full guide on Where to Play Pickleball in Malaysia for a list of the best courts, complete with pricing and operating hours.
