Eye Injuries Spike as Pickleball Gains Popularity Across U.S., Study Finds

If you don’t play pickleball, you probably have a friend—or five—who does. The sport has exploded in popularity, with an estimated 36.5 million Americans having played at least once. What started as casual games has grown into organized leagues and national tournaments, with over 10,700 dedicated courts across the U.S. and counting. But along with its rapid rise comes an increase in pickleball-related eye injuries over the past four years, highlighting a safety concern that many players seem to overlook.

A recent study published in JAMA Ophthalmology analyzed emergency department visits from 2005 to 2024, using data from the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System. Between those years, an estimated 3,112 eye injuries were linked to pickleball, with 1,262 occurring in 2024 alone. From 2021 to 2024, the number of injuries increased by roughly 405 cases per year.

Players aged 50 and over accounted for a significantly larger portion of injuries compared with younger participants. The pickleball injuries ranged from minor issues to severe trauma, including retinal detachments, orbital fractures, globe injuries, and hyphema. Most incidents were caused by being hit directly by a pickleball or paddle, though some occurred from falls on the court.

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While the increase in pickleball participation partly explains the rise in accidents, many players step onto the court without proper preparation or experience, leaving them more vulnerable to injuries.

"Most people just jump in without much consideration for form, technique, and the types of movement that are necessary to actively participate in the sport," says Eric N. Bowman, MD, MPH, perJAMA Network.

Currently, eye protection is not required for casual or competitive play. Given the growing number of injuries, experts recommend establishing standardized eye safety guidelines to protect players. Until then, players are advised to take precautions by wearing protective eyewear, such as sports goggles or impact-resistant glasses.

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