SFN | Ecosystem

Navigating the Ecosystem: Trends & Market Insights

Explore comprehensive surveys and emerging trends shaping the racquet sports industry. Understand market dynamics, changing preferences, and opportunities for growth across all facility types and regions. Gain insight into how the racquet sports ecosystem is evolving in response to broader shifts in the leisure and fitness sectors. From changing user expectations to innovative facility concepts.

Data-Driven Insights into the Evolving World of Leisure

Padel in Europe: a look at France

Padel in France is growing but lags behind Italy, Spain, and Sweden, with only 3,021 courts (54% covered) and 21.5k inhabitants per court. Southern regions like Occitanie lead, while Burgundy-Franche-Comté trails. Key barriers include high construction costs, long permit times, and lower population density (120/km² vs. Italy’s 196). Despite this, recent acceleration shows promise, especially in Île-de-France, which has high density but fewer courts.

Asia's Pickleball Revolution - Bold text highlighting the explosive growth of pickleball across Asia.

Asia: The Next Frontier for Pickleball – UPA Asia and YouGov research Released

Discover Asia's pickleball revolution! Groundbreaking UPA Asia & YouGov research reveals 1.9 billion Asians know pickleball, with 812 million trying it and 282 million playing monthly. Vietnam leads with 152% growth, followed by Malaysia (132%). Young adults (18-35) drive the trend, citing fun (35%), health (33%) and easy learning (31%) as top motivations. With 60% annual growth and India's 178M frequent players, pickleball is Asia's newest sports phenomenon.

Over 400,000 players: LTA unveils latest figures on growth of Padel in Britain

Padel is booming in Great Britain: Over 400,000 people played in 2024 – up from just 15,000 in 2019. Court numbers have reached 893 across 300 venues, backed by £6 million in LTA investment. Community outreach is strong, with over 75% of venues offering inclusive programmes.

Eurostat Insights: Rising Consumer Spending on Active Sports Participation

Eurostat data shows rising prices in active sports—squash included—highlighting strong demand and market acceptance.

UK Health & Fitness Market Report 2025: Key Insights for Racquet Sports Facilities

Explore key insights from the UK Health & Fitness Market Report 2025—motivations, trends, and growth strategies tailored for racquet sports

Participation in Sport Clubs and School Sport Clubs by Children and Young People in Japan – Insights from the Survey "White Paper on Sports in Japan"

Insights from Sasakawa Sports Foundation’s White Paper 2023: Survey in participation of Japanese children and young people in sport

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Country Reports: Local Insights, Global Context

Every market is different—but patterns of success can be recognized and adapted. Our Country Reports provide deep insights into the racquet sports landscape in specific regions, highlighting participation trends, facility types, growth barriers, and local innovations. Whether you're planning expansion or benchmarking performance, these reports offer the data and context you need to make informed decisions and unlock new opportunities.

Spotlight on Austria: The Story Behind the Austrian Squash Challenge

Discover the inspiring story behind the Austrian Squash Challenge, led by 19-time national champion Aqeel Rehman. From grassroots outreach to hosting a PSA tournament in a busy Salzburg mall, this initiative is redefining squash in Austria. With kids’ programs, public engagement, and long-term vision, it’s a powerful example of how passion and perseverance can revive a sport — one court and one community at a time.

Squash "will enter the Olympics" for the first time, and the Chinese team will start from scratch

China is investing in cross-discipline talent, hiring top coaches, and integrating squash into sports schools, clubs, and campuses. With long-term planning and grassroots development, the country aims to build a competitive team and boost national interest in the sport.

CEO and President of US Squash Kevin Klipstein

Innovations and Strategies for Growing US Squash

Discover how US Squash's Klipstein fosters grassroots growth, public school programs, and modular courts, fueling a thriving US squash.

The Rise and Prospects of Padel in Italy – Lessons from the Development of Squash

Padel in Italy: Boom, decline & future. Carlo Ferrara & Markus Gaebel discuss data, strategy & lessons from squash.

Squash in the USA: Market Overview and Facilities

Discover the rise of US squash facilities, fueled by LA 28. Explore facility types, investments, and success factors for private clubs.

The secret behind Egypt’s Squash success: Facilities and Juniors

Discover how Egypt dominates squash with top facilities, strong junior programs, dedicated coaches, and insights from expert Ashraf Hanafi.