Pickleball’s rise as America’s fastest-growing sport has come with an unexpected downside — a sharp increase in eye injuries. A new study found more than 3,000 pickleball-related eye injuries over the past two decades, with over a third reported in just the past year.
Most injuries occurred when players were struck by the ball or paddle, though some resulted from falls. While many cases involved minor scratches or bruising, doctors also reported serious complications such as retinal detachment, internal eye bleeding, and fractured eye sockets. Despite these risks, players are not required to wear protective eyewear, even in competitive play.
Experts say the surge in injuries reflects the sport’s rapid growth, now with nearly 20 million U.S. players. They’re calling for stronger safety guidelines and public awareness campaigns to encourage eye protection — similar to those long established in sports like racquetball and squash. Simple precautions, such as wearing protective glasses, could prevent sight-threatening injuries and help players enjoy the game safely.
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