The worldwide pickleball news continues rolling in lately. Earlier this week, we reported on the Pickleball World Rankings event in Dubai which launched the PWR World Tour.
Now, pickleball will make its debut at the 2025 Maccabiah Games in Israel.
This announcement comes from Maccabi USA Pickleball Co-Chairs Marty Einhorn and Brian Levine, highlighting the sport's rapid growth and global appeal.
Tryouts (Open 18+):
September 7: Coconut Creek, FL (Indoor Venue)
September 14: Santa Monica, CA
The world is addicted to pickleball
"Pickleball has been the fastest-growing sport in the US for each of the past five years, with 48 million Americans – 19 percent of the population – playing the sport," said Co-Chair and coach Brian Levine.
He added, "It is arguably already the most popular participation sport in the country, and we are rapidly seeing this addictive Seattle-born game catch fire around the world."
The Dink Media Team
In Israel, pickleball is still relatively new but is experiencing swift growth, much like in other parts of the world.
"There are a number of courts throughout the country, mostly temporary courts in the existing tennis centers, and a few in private clubs," explained Co-Chair Marty Einhorn. "There is an organized Israel Pickleball Association which is working to grow the game. It will be a thrill to play at Kfar HaMaccabiah, the home of Maccabi World Union, and the global Maccabi Movement."
The inclusion of pickleball in the Maccabiah Games underscores the sport's expanding footprint and the dedicated efforts of its advocates.
In recognition of his significant contributions to the sport, Seymour "Rif" Rifkind will serve as the Honorary Chair of the Maccabi USA Pickleball team. Rifkind, the President and Founder of both the World Pickleball Federation (WPF) and the International Pickleball Teaching Professional Association (IPTPA), has been instrumental in promoting pickleball worldwide.
His efforts include two trips to Israel to certify coaches and lead clinics and demonstrations during the 2022 Maccabiah Games.
About the Maccabiah Games
The Maccabiah Games, known for their cultural significance, offer more than just athletic competition. They celebrate Jewish culture, unity, and pride through Israel Connect, a unique cultural and educational program. This program allows athletes to tour historical and religious sites, participate in cultural identity seminars, and connect with Israel and fellow athletes, fostering lifelong relationships.
The 2025 Maccabiah Games, the world's second-largest international sporting event, will feature over 10,000 athletes from 80 countries competing in over 40 sports.
Let's hope we get to announce pickleball's addition to the first-largest international sporting event (the Olympics) soon!
