The Hidden Dangers Behind America’s Fastest-Growing Sport: Pickleball

Once a quiet pastime, pickleball has exploded into one of America’s fastest-growing sports. With millions of players across all age groups, the mix of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong has become a favorite recreational activity in parks, gyms, and retirement communities nationwide.

But as participation in this popular pastime soars, so do the injuries.

At Morgan & Morgan, we’re seeing more clients dealing with the physical, emotional, and financial aftermath of pickleball-related accidents. Whether you're a weekend warrior or a competitive player, knowing your rights is important if you're injured during play. You might be surprised to learn that someone else’s negligence, or a facility’s failure to provide safe conditions, could make you eligible for compensation.

Pickleball: Fun, Fast, and Not Without Risk

Pickleball may seem low-impact, especially compared to sports like football, basketball, or hockey. But its fast pace, constant movement, and stop-start dynamics can create the perfect storm for injuries, especially for older players or those new to physical activity.

As courts pop up in backyards, community centers, and converted parking lots, some facilities are cutting corners on safety. Add poor maintenance, lack of supervision, or overcrowded courts, and injuries become more likely than you’d think.

Common Pickleball Injury Scenarios

While many injuries are accidental, some result from hazardous conditions or other parties’ negligence. Here are a few ways these incidents can happen:

• Slippery or uneven playing surfaces: Cracked concrete, poorly maintained flooring, or spilled drinks can all lead to dangerous slips and falls.
• Faulty or poorly maintained equipment: Broken paddles, nets, or unstable fencing can lead to cuts, impact injuries, or trips.
• Overcrowded courts: Some facilities book too many players at once or allow non-players to walk through the play area.
• Lack of supervision or safety signage: Failure to warn players of potential hazards, especially in clubs or gym settings, can be grounds for liability.
• Aggressive or reckless players: Collisions, high-speed serves, or dangerous play can result in someone getting seriously hurt.

Whether you’re playing on a public court or at a private club, someone is responsible for ensuring a safe environment. 

What Kind of Injuries Happen in Pickleball?

Pickleball injuries range from minor sprains to more serious injuries that may require surgery or rehabilitation. Common injuries include:

• Ankle sprains and fractures: Sudden pivots or trips can twist ankles beyond their limits.
• Knee injuries: Torn ligaments, meniscus damage, or patellar injuries are common among older or high-intensity players.
• Wrist and hand fractures: Falling on an outstretched arm is a natural reflex, but one that often results in broken bones.
• Shoulder injuries: Overhead smashes and repetitive swinging motions can lead to rotator cuff tears or impingement.
• Concussions or head trauma: Players falling backwards or colliding with others can suffer serious blows to the head.
• Back and neck strain: Quick directional changes or slips can lead to painful soft tissue damage.

Even seemingly minor injuries can keep you off your feet for weeks, leading to lost income, medical bills, and reduced quality of life.

Who’s Responsible for a Pickleball Injury?

Just because you’re playing a sport doesn’t mean you’ve automatically assumed all the risk. You may be entitled to compensation if someone else’s negligence caused your injury.

Potentially liable parties include:

• Facility owners or managers: If the court was in poor condition, poorly lit, or overcrowded, the business may be held accountable.
• Organizers or event hosts: Whether it’s a tournament or a league match, organizers have a duty to ensure safety.
• Other players: If someone acted recklessly or aggressively and caused your injury, they may be personally liable.
• Equipment manufacturers: The maker could be at fault if defective gear contributed to your accident.

Even if you signed a waiver, you may still have a valid claim, especially if gross negligence is involved. Don’t let a signature keep you from seeking justice.

Hurt on the Court? Let Us Serve You Justice

Pickleball should be a source of fun and fitness, not frustration and injury. If you were hurt due to unsafe conditions or someone else’s actions, you have the right to hold them accountable. 

At Morgan & Morgan, we’ve recovered billions of dollars for injury victims and bring that same passion to every client, no matter the case. Our attorneys will:

• Investigate your accident.
• Determine liability.
• Work with medical experts to document your injuries.
• Handle communications with insurance companies.
• Fight for full and fair compensation.

Whether through settlement or trial, we’re relentless in seeking justice because we believe everyone deserves protection, on and off the court. Contact Morgan & Morgan today for a free case evaluation.