In the sun-kissed landscape of Southern California, a subtle but significant shift is underway – one that is reshaping the region’s sporting landscape. Tennis is experiencing a remarkable surge in popularity, marking its fourth consecutive year of growth. With a staggering 2.2 million active players, Southern California emerges as an undeniable hub of tennis fervor, proudly boasting the highest participation rate in the entire nation.

Among the vibrant tapestry of individuals aged six and above within the USTA’s Southern California Section, a striking 10.1 percent indicated their engagement in tennis at least once during the year of 2023. This statistic vividly illustrates that one in every ten individuals, regardless of age, within the Southern California Section embraced the sport during that period. In comparison, the national landscape reveals that approximately one in every thirteen Americans indulged in tennis during the same timeframe.

According to the latest insights gleaned from the Physical Activity Council Study on Sports and Physical Activity (PAC), conducted in collaboration with Sports Marketing Surveys USA and the Tennis Industry Association Participation and Engagement Study (PES), a staggering 23.8 million people aged six and above actively participated in tennis across the United States in 2023. Remarkably, the Southern California section alone contributes to 7% of the total U.S. population aged six and above, while accounting for an impressive 9% of all tennis players within the nation.

In simple terms, these discoveries highlight how Southern California is making a big impact on tennis nationwide. It’s not just a place where people love tennis; it’s actually driving the sport’s growth across the whole country.

What’s truly remarkable is the diversity that characterizes this burgeoning tennis scene. The diversity of the tennis playing population in Southern California has increased greatly. The majority of tennis players in the section are non-White, including 28% Hispanic/Latino. This shift not only underscores tennis’s ability to transcend cultural boundaries but also reflects its growing appeal among a broad spectrum of communities.

Beyond the courts, another trend is unfolding – one that hints at even greater potential for tennis’s expansion. A surge in latent demand is palpable, with over two million non-players expressing a keen interest in taking up the sport. This burgeoning interest presents a golden opportunity for community engagement and outreach initiatives, promising to further fuel the sport’s growth and diversification.

Crucially, this research isn’t just about numbers; it’s about goals and aspirations. With ambitious targets set for community tennis – including the aim to achieve 35 million players nationwide by 2035 – the research serves as a vital compass, guiding the trajectory of tennis’s evolution. By harnessing insights from participation research, stakeholders can chart a path towards a vibrant and inclusive future for the sport, one where tennis transcends boundaries, unites communities, and continues to inspire generations to come.