New Study: The Worst Mistake Players Could Make When Packing Their Pickleball Bags (Especially Over 50s)
Pickleball has exploded in popularity across the United States, with an estimated 20 million players embracing the sport in 2024. Yet, this growth has come with an alarming surge in serious eye injuries, especially among players over the age of 50, new research published in JAMA Ophthalmology reveals.
The Silent Epidemic of Pickleball Eye Injuries
Between 2005 and 2024, there were over 3,100 reported pickleball-related eye injuries in the United States, with more than 1,200 occurring just in 2024 alone. An estimated 405 new eye injuries occur each year, according to extensive data analysis from the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System. The most affected demographic? Adults aged 50 and older, accounting for about 70% of these injuries.
These injuries are not minor. They range from corneal abrasions and eyelid lacerations to devastating conditions like retinal detachment, orbital fractures, and hyphema (blood pooling inside the eye), all of which can lead to permanent vision loss if not treated promptly. The mechanisms causing these injuries include being hit by the ball (43%), falls (28%), or paddle strikes (12%)—all shocks that can happen to anyone on the court, but especially to less agile or older players.
True Stories of Vision Loss and Life-Altering Injuries
Consider the story of Lawrence, a 62-year-old enthusiastic pickleball player, who shared his experience after a weekend game. A fast-moving pickleball struck him directly in the eye, causing severe pain and blurred vision. He was diagnosed with a retinal detachment, requiring emergency surgery to prevent blindness. Lawrence’s vision remains compromised to this day, an injury he believes could have been prevented with simple eye protection.
Another player, Susan, 58, recalled falling on the court during a match, hitting her face on the hard surface. The fall caused an orbital fracture around her eye socket, leaving her with prolonged swelling and headaches, and a permanent dent in her confidence to return to the sport. Both stories highlight how commonly underestimated the risks are and how much players regret not packing protective eyewear.
Why Are Eye Injuries So Common in Pickleball?
The lightweight perforated plastic pickleball travels at high speeds with minimal air resistance and often with little warning. The tight quarters of pickleball courts mean players are often in close proximity during fast, aggressive exchanges. Many new players, especially those over 50, underestimate the speed and stay unprotected, thinking the sport is less risky because of its friendly reputation and accessibility.
Their vulnerability is compounded by natural age-related changes—reduced muscle mass, slower reflexes, and weaker bones around the eyes—making falls and direct hits more hazardous. These physical realities make eye protection not just wise, but essential.
Players should be aware that many eye injuries happen when the ball ricochets off your partner’s paddle, not just from hard drives from players.
A Call to Action: Mandate Eye Protection for All Players
Despite these alarming statistics and eyewitness accounts, eye protection is not currently mandatory in pickleball leagues or recreational play. Unlike squash and racquetball, where protective goggles are standard, pickleball’s governing body has not issued any mandates or standardized guidelines for eye safety. This oversight places millions of players at unnecessary risk.
Research shows that sports eye injuries decrease by as much as 90% when appropriate protective eyewear is used consistently. Countries and sports that have implemented mandatory eye protection see dramatically reduced emergency room visits and long-term disability.
The urgent need is clear: Protective eyewear must become as routine as paddles and balls in the pickleball bag. Educational campaigns modeled after those in other sports have shown success and must be adopted widely in the pickleball community to save vision and lives.
The time has come for pickleball organizations, clubs, and casual players to demand the mandatory use of eye protection. It is no longer just a recommendation—it is a necessary safeguard against devastating injuries. Older players, in particular, should be proactive in packing high-quality eye protection, as the stakes are much higher for them.
Whether you are a seasoned player or new to the sport, never make the mistake of leaving your goggles behind. Your eyesight—and quality of life—may depend on it.
Finding the Best Eye Protection: Trusted Resources
For players looking to invest in proper eye protection, trusted resources are available that rank and review the best pickleball eye protection options by social sentiment. To explore eyewear that combines comfort, style, and maximum safety, visit the comprehensive guide at Picklepedia’s Best Pickleball Eye Protection page. This resource can help you make an informed and personal choice that ensures you return home from every game with your vision intact
References:
Data and findings referenced from JAMA Ophthalmology