PICKLEBALL OLYMPIC DEBUT UPDATE: IOC President Kirsty Coventry Applauds Women’s Participation In Pickleball, As Olympic Committee Gives Green Light To Pickleball Games. Gives Official Guide’s On Satisfying All The Requirements And Criteria Of Becoming A Consistent Olympic Sport.

PICKLEBALL OLYMPIC DEBUT UPDATE: IOC President Kirsty Coventry Commends Women’s Impact As Olympic Committee Approves Pickleball, Releases Official Guidelines for Sport’s Olympic Inclusion

In a historic and widely celebrated development, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has officially given the green light for pickleball to begin its path toward Olympic inclusion. IOC President Kirsty Coventry, a decorated Olympian herself, praised the sport’s rapid growth and particularly applauded the increasing participation and leadership of women in pickleball. Her remarks came during an IOC press conference where the committee outlined the next steps for the sport’s Olympic debut and unveiled the official requirements it must meet to become a recurring part of the Games.

“Pickleball represents the future of sport—accessible, dynamic, and inclusive,” said Coventry. “We are particularly inspired by the strong presence of women in the game at all levels, from grassroots to elite competition. Their involvement has helped drive the sport’s global momentum.”

The IOC’s approval doesn’t guarantee pickleball a spot in the next Olympic Games, but it does formally begin the evaluation and trial process necessary for full Olympic inclusion. The newly released IOC guidelines detail the rigorous criteria pickleball must satisfy to secure a place in future Olympic competitions. These include demonstrating global reach with active national federations across multiple continents, ensuring gender equality in competition, upholding anti-doping and sports integrity standards, and building a sustainable fan base and media presence.

Pickleball, which combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, has seen explosive global growth in recent years. Originally popularized in the United States, the sport has spread rapidly to Europe, Asia, and South America. With its simple rules and emphasis on accessibility, pickleball has attracted players of all ages and skill levels, making it one of the fastest-growing sports worldwide.

In response to the IOC’s announcement, the International Federation of Pickleball (IFP) expressed enthusiasm and readiness to meet the outlined standards. “This is a monumental day for our sport,” said IFP President Doug Thompson. “We are committed to aligning with every requirement necessary to bring pickleball to the Olympic stage.”

If progress continues as expected, pickleball could make its Olympic debut as a demonstration sport within the next two Olympic cycles, paving the way for full inclusion in the Games. For players, fans, and supporters around the world, the road to Olympic gold is now officially open.