Louis Laville, a leading figure in European pickleball, is optimistic about the sport’s future, particularly its potential inclusion in the Olympics.
As pickleball continues to grow globally, it has already been named America’s fastest-growing sport for three consecutive years.
While the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics are already set, with new sports like flag football and lacrosse, Laville believes that 2036 could be the year for pickleball’s Olympic debut, especially if the sport continues to expand in popularity.
Laville, who first discovered pickleball seven years ago and is now a top-ranked player in Europe, is not only a fierce competitor but also a passionate ambassador for the sport. He views himself as a mentor to the next generation, promoting the sport’s fun and inclusive nature. Despite his competitive drive, Laville emphasizes the importance of enjoying the game and the camaraderie that pickleball fosters.
His vision for the sport includes not only growth in Europe and beyond but the dream of seeing it one day celebrated on the Olympic stage, with the ultimate achievement being an Olympic gold in pickleball.
Laville’s involvement in the sport goes beyond playing; he’s also dedicated to coaching and introducing newcomers to the game, believing that the sport’s competitive yet friendly atmosphere will help it continue to thrive in the years to come.
His dedication to growing pickleball both on and off the court shows how integral he is to its rise and its future success.
