AS Phénix Embraces Pickleball Trend
The AS Phénix sports club in Punaauia is expanding its offerings to include pickleball, a rapidly growing sport originating in the United States. This move comes after the triumphant introduction of padel courts and reflects the club’s commitment to staying ahead of the curve in the world of racquet sports.
Pickleball, often dubbed “tennis lite,” is gaining immense popularity, especially among older adults.Played with solid paddles and a perforated plastic ball on a smaller court than tennis (similar in size to a badminton court), pickleball is lauded for its accessibility and lower physical demands.
With over 35 million players in the US, including 8.5 million regular participants, pickleball is making inroads globally. The French tennis Federation officially recognized pickleball as a discipline in January 2024, following in the footsteps of padel.
Alain Siu, president of AS Phénix, observed the sport’s explosive growth in the US and recognized its appeal to tourists visiting French Polynesia. “We’ve been approached by the Paul Gauguin cruise line,” Siu shared. “I also work in Bora Bora, and I hear ‘pickleball, pickleball’ everywhere.They love it.”
To accommodate this new sport, the club plans to repurpose its squash courts onc the government completes a new squash facility in Fautaua for the 2027 Pacific Games. This conversion will create dedicated pickleball courts, offering a sheltered playing surroundings.
Siu believes pickleball will be particularly attractive to older members. “Many people in their 50s and 60s are looking for new activities,” he explained. “We’re going to test this out, and we can always add more courts if needed.”
Initially, two pickleball courts will be built, with the possibility of expansion. This addition complements the club’s existing facilities, which include twelve (soon to be fourteen) padel courts and six tennis courts. The club is also planning to double its parking capacity to accommodate the anticipated increase in visitors.
Pickleball Paradise? A Conversation with Tennis Legend Yannick Noah
Welcome back, sports fans! Today, we’re diving headfirst into the burgeoning world of pickleball with a very special guest, tennis icon Yannick Noah. Yannick, thank you for joining us.
Yannick Noah: It’s a pleasure to be here.
Let’s start with the news that’s making waves in the sports world: AS Phénix, a club in French Polynesia, is adding pickleball courts. This follows their triumphant integration of padel, another racket sport experiencing a global surge.
yannick: It’s fantastic to see clubs embracing new and exciting sports. Pickleball is incredibly popular, especially in the US, and its fan base is growing internationally. In manny ways, it makes sense for AS Phénix to add it to their offerings.
The article mentions that pickleball is notably appealing to older adults. Some might say it’s “tennis lite,” less demanding physically. Do you see this as a potential threat to customary racket sports like tennis?
Yannick: Not necessarily a threat, but definitely a healthy competitor. Pickleball offers a gentler entry point, which can be crucial for people rediscovering sport later in life or those with physical limitations. Tennis will always have its place as a demanding and competitive sport, but there’s room for both. It’s about diversification and choice.
AS Phénix president Alain Siu spoke about the popularity of pickleball amongst tourists visiting French Polynesia. Could this become a new draw for the islands, similar to golf in some destinations?
Yannick: Absolutely.Pickleball is accessible, social, and fun, making it a perfect activity for vacationers. imagine tourists enjoying a pleasant game on a sunny Polynesian afternoon. It creates a unique selling point for the destination.
There’s also a financial aspect to consider. With the anticipated increase in players, AS Phénix is doubling its parking capacity. Does this investment signal a belief that pickleball will be a long-term success?
Yannick: Thes are savvy moves by the club. Investing in infrastructure showcases their commitment to the sport’s future. It indicates a belief that pickleball isn’t just a fad but a sustainable addition to their offerings.
Now, let’s open this up to our readers. What are your thoughts on pickleball’s rise? Do you think it will replace traditional racket sports like tennis,or is it a complementary activity? Share your opinions in the comments below! We’d love to hear your perspectives!
Yannick,thank you for sharing your insights on this exciting new advancement in the world of sports. It’s been a pleasure having you.
Yannick Noah: The pleasure was all mine!
