New Popular Sports: 12 Sports Growing Fast in America

New sports rarely appear out of nowhere. Most of the fastest-growing sports in America have existed for decades, then suddenly found the right moment: cheap equipment, social media, short games and a place to play close to home. Here are the sports that have grown fastest in recent years and the reasons behind their rise.

The fastest risers

1. Pickleball

Invented in Washington state in 1965, pickleball became the fastest-growing sport in the United States in the 2020s. A small court, a paddle and a plastic ball with holes make it easy to learn, and players of very different ages can compete together. Tennis courts across the country have been converted into pickleball courts, and professional tours now broadcast matches on TV.

2. Padel

Padel is a racquet sport played in doubles on an enclosed court with glass walls that players can use, much like squash. It is huge in Spain and Latin America and is growing quickly in US cities, where new padel clubs keep opening.

3. Flag football

Non-contact flag football has grown fast among kids and girls, helped by concerns about tackle football and strong support from the NFL. It was added to the program for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, giving it a major boost.

4. Disc golf

Disc golf uses flying discs thrown into metal baskets on a course, usually in public parks. Courses are cheap to build and often free to play, which helped participation surge, especially among young adults.

5. Roundnet (Spikeball)

Teams of two bounce a small ball off a round trampoline-style net. It started as a backyard and beach game and now has organized tournaments and college clubs.

6. Cornhole

The tailgate favorite has become a televised professional sport, with leagues, rankings and players who throw bags with remarkable accuracy.

7. Esports

Competitive video gaming fills arenas and draws huge online audiences. Colleges now offer esports scholarships, and many high schools have teams. See our guide to competitive esports examples.

Sports boosted by the Olympics

The Olympics have added several newer sports, which helps them grow in the US:

Sport	Olympic debut or return
Skateboarding, surfing, sport climbing	Tokyo 2020
Breaking (breakdancing)	Paris 2024
Flag football, lacrosse, squash, cricket	Los Angeles 2028
Baseball and softball	Return at Los Angeles 2028

More sports to watch

• Axe throwing – Indoor venues turned it into a social activity, and leagues now hold national championships.
• Teqball – A mix of soccer and table tennis played on a curved table.
• Drone racing – Pilots race small drones through obstacle courses using first-person video goggles.
• Women's professional leagues – Not a new sport, but the rapid growth of women's basketball, soccer, volleyball and hockey has been one of the biggest stories in American sport.
• Golf entertainment – Driving-range venues with games and simulators brought millions of new players into golf.

How to try a new sport near you

1. Check your parks department – many cities now run pickleball, disc golf and flag football programs for kids and adults.
2. Look for drop-in sessions – pickleball and padel clubs often hold beginner clinics and open-play times where you can just show up.
3. Use apps and community groups – local groups organize pickup games and help newcomers find partners at their level.
4. Borrow or rent equipment – many venues lend paddles, discs or bags, so you can try before you buy.
5. Join a social league – adult recreational leagues combine games with a social atmosphere and are designed for beginners.

Comparing the new sports at a glance

Sport	Starting cost	Players	Physical intensity
Pickleball	Low (paddle and balls)	2 or 4	Moderate
Padel	Moderate (court rental)	4	Moderate to high
Flag football	Low (flags and a ball)	5 to 7 per side	High
Disc golf	Low (a few discs)	1 or more	Low to moderate
Roundnet	Low (one set)	4	Moderate to high
Cornhole	Low (boards and bags)	2 or 4	Low

Most of these sports suit beginners and mixed-age groups, which is a big reason they spread through families, offices and friend groups so quickly.

Why these sports are growing

• Low cost and easy to start – Most need only basic equipment and a short learning curve.
• Short games – A pickleball or roundnet game takes minutes, which fits busy schedules.
• Social – Many are played in mixed groups and pair naturally with friends and family.
• Social media – Highlight clips spread quickly and draw new players.
• Safety – Non-contact sports such as flag football appeal to parents worried about injuries.

Curious how these compare with the most played sports overall? See the most played sports in the world.