| Photo by Valentin Balan on Unsplash
NEW YORK — Tennis participation in the United States climbed to 27.3 million players in 2025, the highest level recorded in modern tracking and the sport’s sixth consecutive year of growth, according to new data released by the U.S. Tennis Association (USTA).
The findings, announced Wednesday in New York, show that tennis participation has surged 54 percent since 2019, adding nearly 10 million new players over six years. The USTA attributed the sustained rise to a combination of increased recreational play, strong retention rates, and expanding participation among women and communities of color.
The numbers come from an independent analysis conducted by the National Golf Foundation, drawing on data from the Physical Activity Council (PAC) Study on Sports and Physical Activity and the PLAY Study.
USTA Leaders Highlight Expanding Participation
Brian Vahaly, USTA chairman of the board and interim co‑CEO, said the continued rise reflects a deepening national interest in the sport.
“This sustained participation growth reflects strong demand for our sport across a diverse range of communities nationwide,” Vahaly said in a statement. “As we advance toward our goal of 35 million players by 2035, we will continue investing strategically to ensure this momentum translates into sustained participation and a stronger tennis ecosystem.”
“Our goal is to expand access so more people across this country can play the world’s healthiest sport and experience the physical, mental, and social benefits it has to offer,” Vahaly said.
“Tennis participation continues to surge with six consecutive years of growth,” the USTA said in its 2026 report, noting that the sport has added nearly 10 million players since 2019.
Growth Broadens Across Demographic Groups
Analysts attribute the sport’s staying power to its accessibility, low equipment costs, and appeal across age groups. The USTA’s data shows that adults 35 and older accounted for 95 percent of all participation growth in 2025.
Industry data shows that participation increases are not limited to one demographic group. Women accounted for the largest numerical gain in 2025, followed by notable growth among Hispanic, Black, and Asian American players. Tennis organizations say these shifts reflect ongoing efforts to expand access through school programs, public‑court investments, and community partnerships.
Age and Experience Trends Strengthen the Sport’s Base
Participation also rose across age and experience levels. Adults 35 and older continued returning to the sport, while first‑time players remained a significant share of overall participation. The number of core players — those who play frequently — also increased, suggesting that casual interest is converting into sustained engagement.
Data Shows Uneven but Meaningful Expansion Nationwide
A third set of indicators highlights where participation is expanding most quickly. Whether measured by region, income bracket, or urban‑suburban distribution, the data show uneven but meaningful growth across the country. Analysts say these patterns could guide future decisions on court development, programming, and resource allocation.
Participation expanded unevenly across the country, with notable increases in [region/income/urban‑suburban category], according to USTA figures.
Officials Expect Demand to Continue Into 2026
Tennis officials say the continued rise in participation underscores the sport’s stability after the pandemic‑era surge. With more players entering and returning to the game, local programs and facilities are expected to adjust to meet demand heading into 2026.
