3 Sports Like Pickleball: Comparing Tennis, Badminton, and Ping Pong
Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the world—and 2025 is proving to be its biggest year yet. If you’ve tried it, you might notice that it feels familiar. That’s because pickleball blends elements from three other popular racket sports: tennis, badminton, and ping pong (also known as table tennis).
Each of these sports brings something unique to the way pickleball is played. In this article, we’ll break down what three sports are similar to pickleball, how they compare in terms of court size, equipment, and play style, and why understanding these similarities can help you improve your game. We’ll also introduce you to Srikel, a top provider of some of the best pickleball nets in 2025.
What Sports Are Similar to Pickleball?
Pickleball shares strong similarities with these three sports:
- Tennis
- Badminton
- Ping pong (table tennis)
Let’s take a closer look at each one and how it relates to pickleball.
1. Tennis and Pickleball Compared
Court Size: Tennis courts are much larger than pickleball courts—about four times bigger. Pickleball is easier on the joints because it requires less running and movement across the court.
Equipment: Tennis players use stringed rackets, while pickleball players use solid paddles. The difference affects control, power, and how each ball reacts during play.
Ball Type: Tennis uses a pressurized rubber ball. In pickleball, the ball is made of plastic with holes—similar to a wiffle ball—which moves slower and stays lower to the ground.
Scoring System: Pickleball typically uses a race-to-11 scoring system where only the serving team can score. Tennis involves sets and games with a more complex point structure.
Why It Matters: Many former tennis players are moving to pickleball in 2025 because it’s more accessible, less physically demanding, and offers quick, exciting rallies.
2. Badminton and Pickleball Compared
Court Layout: Both sports use courts of similar size in doubles play. However, pickleball’s net is much lower—34 inches in the center—compared to badminton’s higher net designed for aerial shots.
Game Style: Badminton is played mostly in the air, with the shuttlecock flying over the net. Pickleball is a bounce-based game, where players let the ball hit the ground before returning, unless it’s a volley near the net.
Serving Rules: Both games require underhand serves, but pickleball has a unique feature: the kitchen (or no-volley zone), which changes how points are played at the net.
Gear: Badminton players use lightweight rackets and birdies, while pickleball uses solid paddles and plastic balls.
Why It Matters: Badminton develops quick footwork and court awareness—skills that translate well to pickleball.
3. Ping Pong and Pickleball Compared
Scale and Speed: Ping pong is like pickleball in miniature—played on a table instead of a court. It’s fast-paced and demands sharp reflexes.
Gear Similarities: Pickleball paddles resemble large ping pong paddles, and both sports use lightweight plastic balls. This makes the transition between the two sports feel natural.
Gameplay: Ping pong relies heavily on spin and soft touch. Similarly, pickleball uses gentle shots called “dinks” to control play near the net.
Social Factor: Like pickleball, ping pong is highly social. It’s often played in rec rooms, clubs, and community centers, making both sports great for casual and competitive players alike.
Why It Matters: If you’ve played table tennis, you already have an edge in hand-eye coordination, reaction time, and paddle control.
How This Knowledge Can Improve Your Pickleball Game
By understanding the similarities between pickleball and these three sports, you can sharpen your skills faster:
- Tennis helps with shot variety and court positioning
- Badminton improves your agility and quick reactions
- Ping pong builds your touch, timing, and focus
Whether you’re new to pickleball or a seasoned player, applying techniques from these sports can give you a competitive advantage.
Game-Changing Gear: The Best Pickleball Nets from Srikel
As pickleball continues to grow, having the right equipment is more important than ever. If you’re setting up a game at home, in a gym, or organizing local tournaments, a quality pickleball net can make all the difference.
That’s where Srikel comes in.
Srikel Pickleball is known in 2025 for offering high-performance, affordable and best pickleball nets. Their products are:
- Easy to assemble and take down
- Weatherproof and durable for outdoor use
- Approved for competitive play by USAPA standards
- Budget-friendly without sacrificing quality
Whether you’re a beginner or a tournament-level player, Srikel has everything you need to play consistently and confidently.
Final Thoughts
Pickleball is more than just a trendy sport—it’s a perfect mix of tennis, badminton, and ping pong. If you’ve played any of those games before, you’ll feel right at home on the pickleball court. And if you’re just getting started, you’ll be surprised at how quickly you can improve.
Just remember: good equipment enhances great gameplay. Srikel offers some of the best pickleball nets on the market, helping you set up your game the right way—whether it’s in your backyard or on a tournament court.