Tennis in the USA: Breaking New Ground Through Innovation

After years of fluctuating numbers, tennis in the USA is surging. According to the USTA, over 23.6 million Americans played tennis in 2023, the fourth consecutive year of growth and the highest participation the sport has seen in over 50 years.

From public parks to private clubs, more Americans are picking up racquets. But alongside participation, expectations are shifting. Today’s players, especially younger generations. want more than traditional drills and matches. They’re seeking immersive, accessible, and engaging ways to experience tennis.

The Entertainment Era of Tennis

Tennis is no longer just a sport; it’s a form of entertainment. Events like The Netflix Slam, the popularity of Break Point, and formats such as Tie Break Tens reflect a new era where the game is about storytelling, energy, and fan connection.

For the sport to continue thriving in the U.S., it needs to evolve not only in how it’s played but how it’s experienced.

Competing with Pickleball & Padel

While tennis in the USA grows, racket sports like pickleball and padel are making serious gains. Pickleball reached 19.8 million American players in 2024, a staggering 45.8% year-over-year increase, becoming the fastest-growing sport in the U.S. for four years straight. Meanwhile, padel courts in the USA rose from fewer than 20 in 2019 to 454 by 2023, with around 100,000 players recorded by year-end. These rival sports are capitalising on tennis court conversions and energising new players, a reminder that tennis must continue to innovate to retain momentum.

Technology Is Driving Participation

As the USTA invests in grassroots growth, school programs, and underserved communities, technology is proving to be a game-changer. Smart analytics, AR-based coaching tools, and tennis simulators are helping people engage with the sport in more flexible, exciting ways.

Where Tennis Simulators Fit In

At BatFast, we’re proud to support the future of tennis in the USA through cutting-edge tennis simulators that bring the sport to new environments, from shopping malls to fan zones to training centres. Whether it’s a fan trying tennis for the first time or a player working on their return timing, simulators make tennis more approachable, repeatable, and fun. That’s how we build not just better players, but lifelong fans.

Having powered immersive experiences at Wimbledon, the Australian Open, and pop-ups across the globe, BatFast is helping turn spectators into participants. From simulated serves to interactive rally challenges, we’re driving the next generation of tennis fans to pick up a racquet.

For the Thrill of the Hit.
GET IN TOUCH WITH US today to learn more about how BatFast can help you elevate your business.

FAQs

Why is tennis participation rising in the USA?
Because of increased accessibility through community courts, tech-based training tools like tennis simulators, and a younger generation of players are driving excitement.

How does BatFast help grow tennis?
By making tennis available in non-traditional spaces like malls, schools, and events, using portable tennis simulators that are easy to set up and play.

Can I practice tennis indoors with BatFast?
Yes. Our tennis simulators work perfectly in indoor environments, letting you train year-round regardless of weather or location.

Do BatFast simulators work for beginners?
Absolutely. We cater to all skill levels, from first-time players to seasoned athletes, with adjustable difficulty and guided gameplay.

Can BatFast Tennis simulators be used in a bar or restaurant?  
Yes, the BatFast Tennis Simulator is the perfect add-on to a leisure venue, often drawing in crowds who go on to spend on F&B.