Pickleball Business Grows 6,124% in Three Years

Jorge Barragan didn’t set out to revolutionize American sports. In 2015, he simply fell in love with pickleball. But when he found himself standing in a line of 50 people waiting for a court at a recreation center, frustration sparked an idea. By 2020, he launched The Picklr, an indoor pickleball club concept designed to eliminate long waits and create a dedicated community space.

From Hobby to National Phenomenon

The response was immediate. After opening their first seven-court facility in Northern Utah in April 2021, Barragan recognized true validation when the company decided to franchise. Within a month, over 100 entrepreneurs flooded his inbox, ready to invest their own savings. This moment crystallized that his vision transcended personal passion—others believed in it too.

The numbers tell the story: The Picklr experienced a staggering 6,124% growth rate over three years, expanding from 27 to 64 clubs. This explosive growth mirrors pickleball’s national surge, with player numbers skyrocketing from 4 million in 2020 to 24.3 million in 2025.

The Tech-Driven Business Model

Barragan credits his software sales background for The Picklr’s success. Unlike traditional sports facility operators, he runs the business like a tech startup, obsessing over member retention and user experience. His strategic real estate approach—converting abandoned big-box stores into premium facilities—allowed rapid expansion while reducing costs and revitalizing communities.

As The Picklr ranks No. 43 among America’s fastest-growing companies, Barragan remains focused on his original mission: building the place he couldn’t find. His vision extends beyond courts—he’s creating pathways for young talent, developing future college and professional players. For someone once mocked for playing pickleball, that transformation represents the ultimate victory.