Pickleball has taken the nation by storm, evolving from a casual backyard game to America’s fastest-growing sport. An estimated 19.8 million people played pickleball in the United States in 2024, reflecting a 45.8% increase from 2023—and a 311% growth since 20211. This paddle sport has captured the hearts of Americans across all age groups. But as participation surges, so do the injuries—and the financial risks that come with them.
The rising popularity and risk of pickleball injuries
The explosive growth of pickleball has brought with it a concerning rise in injuries. In 2025, an 88% increase in pickleball-related injuries was seen in emergency departments since 20202. These numbers tell a sobering story about the physical risks associated with this increasingly popular sport.
What makes these statistics particularly noteworthy is that approximately 91% of injuries involve players 50 and older2. As we age, our bodies become more susceptible to injury, and the quick, explosive movements required in pickleball can put significant strain on joints and muscles that may not be as resilient as they once were.
Common pickleball injuries include:
- Ankle sprains from quick lateral movements
- Shoulder strains affecting the rotator cuff
- “Pickleball elbow” (similar to tennis elbow)
- Knee injuries, including ACL damage
- Lower back strain
- Falls and fractures
How pickleball accident insurance covers medical expenses
When injuries occur on the court, the financial impact can be substantial. Even with health insurance, deductibles, co-pays, and uncovered treatments can quickly add up to thousands of dollars. This is where pickleball accident insurance becomes invaluable.
Pickleball accident insurance helps cover medical expenses when injuries occur during play or practice. Unlike general health insurance, which may have high deductibles or exclude certain sports-related injuries, pickleball-specific coverage is designed to address the unique risks associated with the sport.
Pickleball accident insurance provides coverage for medical expenses that may arise during play. These policies typically cover:
- Emergency room visits
- Surgery and hospital stays
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation
- Diagnostic tests and imaging
- Prescription medications
- Dental injuries (when applicable)
Understanding pickleball accident insurance coverage options
When selecting pickleball accident insurance, look for policies that offer quality coverage for injuries and accidents. The right coverage should protect you both medically and financially if an unfortunate incident occurs.
Obtaining pickleball accident insurance is important to help your members against unexpected medical costs and liability claims. Most policies offer different tiers of coverage, allowing you to select the option that best suits your players.
Key considerations when choosing coverage include:
- Coverage limits – Policies typically range from $5,000 to $25,000 for accident medical coverage
- Deductible amounts – Lower deductibles mean less out-of-pocket expense when filing a claim
- Benefit period – How long the policy will pay for treatment related to a covered injury
- Additional coverages – Some policies include extras like accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D) benefits
Pickleball accident insurance should be considered for players of all skill levels to help protect them against financial hardships that can follow an injury. Even casual players who participate in weekly games at community centers can benefit from the peace of mind that comes with proper coverage.age.
Taking Action: Securing your pickleball protection
As pickleball continues to grow in popularity, the importance of proper insurance coverage cannot be overstated.
Wellfleet Special Risk offers tailored pickleball insurance solutions designed specifically for the unique needs of players at all levels. Our policies provide comprehensive coverage for medical expenses, giving your members the peace of mind to focus on enjoying the game they love.
Don’t wait until after an injury occurs to think about insurance. Get your quote today or contact Wellfleet Special Risk to learn more about our pickleball insurance options and find the coverage that’s right for you. With the right protection in place, you can be confident, knowing that your members are covered on the court.
1 Pickleheads.com. (2025). Pickleball statistics. Retrieved from Pickleheads.com
2 AOAO. (2025, March 21). Rising orthopedic injuries in pickleball: Insights from a 10‑year national study. Retrieved from AOAO.org
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