IOC President Kirsty Coventry Commends the Rise of Women in Pickleball and Celebrates the Successful Vote for Los Angeles 2028
International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Kirsty Coventry has praised the growing prominence of women in pickleball, one of the world’s fastest-growing sports.
In a recent statement, Coventry emphasized the importance of inclusivity and representation in sport, noting that the rise of women athletes in emerging sports like pickleball is a sign of broader progress toward gender equality in global athletics.
“Pickleball’s surge in popularity is remarkable, and the increasing participation of women at all levels is truly inspiring,” Coventry stated.
“We are witnessing a movement that not only promotes athletic excellence but also empowers women and girls around the world to engage in sport.”
Pickleball, a hybrid of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, has seen a dramatic increase in participation globally, with women playing a key role in driving its growth.
Female athletes, coaches, and organizers have been instrumental in building leagues, tournaments, and youth programs that encourage broader participation and visibility.
Coventry, a former Olympic swimmer and advocate for women in sport, highlighted how this trend aligns with the IOC’s commitment to equity and inclusion.
Coventry also celebrated a major milestone for the Olympic Movement: the successful vote confirming Los Angeles as the host city for the 2028 Olympic Games.
The vote, which passed with overwhelming support, solidifies LA’s position as a global center for sport and innovation. “The Olympic Games in Los Angeles will be a celebration of sport, culture, and diversity,” Coventry remarked.
“We are thrilled to bring the Games back to a city with such a rich Olympic legacy and a forward-thinking vision for the future.”
She further emphasized that the 2028 Games will feature a strong focus on youth, sustainability, and gender parity, echoing the core values the IOC has championed in recent years.
The inclusion of newer sports—potentially including pickleball—may be considered as part of the evolving Olympic program, offering fresh opportunities for female athletes to shine on the world stage.
With women making significant strides in both traditional and emerging sports, Coventry’s remarks signal a promising future for female athletes worldwide and a renewed commitment from the IOC to support their growth and visibility at all levels.
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