Doctors are warning of a sharp rise in eye injuries among pickleball players, as the sport's popularity surges in the UK. A new study from Rutgers University in New Jersey found that eye injuries from pickleball have increased dramatically, with 88% of all such injuries occurring between 2022 and 2024.
The study, led by Dr Jonathan C Tsui, analysed data from US emergency departments and estimated around 3,100 pickleball-related eye injuries from 2014 to 2024. Players aged 50 and older accounted for roughly 70% of these injuries, linked to age-related physical decline including reduced muscle mass, bone density and balance.
Common injuries include retinal detachments, fractures to the eye socket, and hyphema (blood collecting in the front of the eye). The most frequent cause was being hit directly by the ball (43% of cases), followed by falls (28%) and being struck by a paddle (12%).
The compact pickleball court positions players just 14 feet apart, allowing little time to react. A ball travelling over 30 mph can deform the eye's cornea and retina, potentially causing permanent vision loss. Dr Tsui noted that an influx of new, inexperienced players unfamiliar with the game's speed and proximity has increased injury risk.
While the study focused on the US, experts warn the trend is likely to follow in the UK as pickleball continues to grow in popularity. Players are advised to wear protective eyewear and be aware of the risks, particularly older adults.
