As tennis courts are converted into pickleball courts, the sport is quickly establishing itself in Vietnam’s athletic community.

This article explores the rapid rise of pickleball and offers insights from experts on how to excel in this exciting new game.

While exact statistics on the number of new players and pickleball courts are yet to be compiled, the surge in interest is evident. In Hanoi alone, the growth of pickleball has been exponential, with numerous new courts and players emerging in recent months.

Social media is awash with posts showcasing new pickleball enthusiasts or announcing the conversion of tennis courts into pickleball facilities. This trend reflects a savvy business response to the sport’s growing appeal.

One of pickleball’s main advantages is its cost-effectiveness. A standard pickleball court requires approximately 200 square meters, compared to the 600 square meters needed for a tennis court. This allows for the conversion of a single tennis court into three pickleball courts, potentially tripling usage and economic returns.

An Ton, a former television actor and pickleball coach, notes: “The cost of setting up a pickleball court is significantly lower than that of a tennis court. Existing badminton or tennis courts can be easily converted into pickleball courts. For a new, standard pickleball court, the cost is around 200 million VND, which is quite reasonable.”

The current pickleball boom is also characterized by its increased usage. Unlike tennis courts, which are typically used for 6-8 hours a day, pickleball courts, often covered to protect players from the elements, can see double the usage.

Pickleball is not just trending; it’s becoming a dominant force, even rivaling the popularity of football in recent times. Over the past year, the sport has flourished, with new players joining at a rapid rate.

Preliminary data from the General Department of Sports and Physical Education suggests that out of approximately 10,000 players, 70% are newcomers, with many transitioning from tennis.

For those new to pickleball, finding a skilled instructor can be challenging. Many current coaches are former tennis players who teach pickleball using techniques adapted from tennis.

An Van, a pickleball enthusiast, remarks: “In Hanoi, you can hire pickleball coaches at various rates, from a few hundred thousand VND per hour to over a million. The challenge is finding a coach who is both knowledgeable and up-to-date with the latest pickleball techniques.”

Despite its simplicity, mastering pickleball involves learning key principles. Coach An Ton provides a “mantra” for players: “Focus on accuracy, consistency, and avoiding errors. Once you master these basics, you can work on improving your technique and style.”

An Ton also operates a unique pickleball training facility in Au Co Street, Hanoi, where players receive one-on-one coaching and benefit from advanced training technologies.

“To excel in pickleball, you need dedication and the right support. I train 4-5 students daily, balancing teaching with my own play. I believe pickleball is not a passing trend but a sport with long-term potential,” said An Ton.

Pickleball’s rapid rise in Vietnam reflects its growing appeal and the practical benefits it offers. As the sport continues to gain traction, it promises to reshape the country’s sports landscape and provide exciting opportunities for players of all levels.

Yen Nhi