World · Singapore Bureau
Older pickleball players face significantly higher eye injury risk
Research from the United States reveals that players aged over 50 are 39 per cent more likely to suffer eye injuries while playing pickleball. The findings raise concerns about player safety in the rapidly growing sport.
LSN Singapore ·
A comprehensive study has identified a substantial gap in eye injury risk among pickleball players based on age, with older athletes facing considerably greater vulnerability on court.
According to the research, players over 50 years old sustained eye injuries at a rate 39 per cent higher than their younger counterparts. The injuries occur when the ball—travelling at speeds around 60 kilometres per hour—strikes players in the face during play.
Pickleball, a paddle sport combining elements of tennis, badminton and table tennis, has experienced explosive growth in popularity across North America and is increasingly gaining traction in other regions. The sport appeals particularly to older adults seeking low-impact recreational activity.
The heightened injury risk among senior players may be attributed to several factors, including reduced reflexes, vision changes associated with ageing, and potentially slower reaction times. Eye protection options remain limited, as many players do not routinely wear protective eyewear during casual matches.
The findings underscore the need for greater awareness of safety precautions among the ageing demographic of players, particularly as the sport continues to expand and attract growing numbers of recreational participants worldwide.