Pickleball craze spreads to Donald Trump's business empire.

Trump Store, the personal retail shop of President Donald Trump, has released new spring merchandise, ranging from apparel and accessories to sports gear, hats, and glassware. The most prominent item is a pickleball paddle priced at $180, offered in a range of colors and designs including pink, blue, and floral patterns.

Trump Store’s pickleball paddle and pricing

According to the Mirror US, the paddle is marketed as being made with lightweight, high-performance materials and featuring a comfortable handle. Some versions include large “Trump” lettering at the center, while others feature the American flag on the paddle face or the “Make America Great Again” slogan.

Trump Store also sells pickleball balls at $24 per ball and a paddle bag priced at $200.

Market outlook for pickleball apparel

Coherent Market Insights released a 2025 end-year report projecting the global pickleball apparel market will reach $626.6 million in 2026 and grow to $1.2 billion by 2033. The report cites rising demand, competitive dynamics, emerging sports trends, and technology advances as key drivers.

Controversy over paddle pricing

Despite claims of ultra-light materials and performance optimization, some professional players have said the paddle specifications are only standard. The pricing has also sparked online debate.

On TikTok, Connor Clary said: “I don’t know much about pickleball, but I know a paddle shouldn’t cost $180.” Another user commented: “I know you’re the President, but a paddle that looks like a toy really costs $180?”

Supporters argue that branding the paddle with “Trump” adds symbolic value beyond the materials, with some buyers viewing it as a keepsake tied to the sitting U.S. President.

Broader investment and valuation debate

Good Morning America reported that investors view pickleball as a less exclusive cousin of tennis. The sport’s accessibility across ages and skill levels is cited as a factor behind its rapid expansion. In an environment where NBA and NFL team valuations have become out of reach for many, pickleball is often framed as a more affordable option.

Current valuations of pickleball teams are estimated at $1 million to $10 million, while the Washington Commanders were sold for as much as $6 billion.

However, as valuations rise, concerns are growing about timing. Patrick Rishe of Washington University in St. Louis cautioned: “We may be approaching a point where participation in investment is too late to expect a real return.”

Turning mass popularity into lasting entertainment

Pickleball’s growth also raises a key sports-industry question: how to convert broad participation into sustainable interest in professional entertainment. For investors, the sport could offer upside, but it also carries risks if it does not capture mainstream audiences.

Andre Agassi on Olympic potential and growth

Investors have pointed to Andre Agassi as a continuing champion for the sport. Speaking at the JOOLA Titans Tour 2026 in Malaysia on April 8, the eight-time Grand Slam champion said pickleball is poised to become an Olympic sport.

“It would be wonderful if that happens. We’ve seen pickleball grow strongly worldwide and there is still huge room for growth,” Agassi said.

Agassi, who has been an influential advocate since retiring, said pickleball is among the fastest-growing sports globally, particularly in the U.S. and Asia, and is expanding into Europe and South America. He highlighted Southeast Asia as a market with strong potential.

Agassi is also scheduled to attend Pickleball Slam 4, where he will team with James Blake to face Anna Leigh Waters and Eugenie Bouchard. The event has total prize money of $1 million and is expected to draw continued attention from fans and media.

New venues and upcoming events

Rafael Nadal recently drew attention by opening a pickleball court in Punta Cana’s new tennis complex. The complex includes six courts and is planned to host the Punta Cana International Pickleball Open on June 19-21.

What to watch next

In the near term, the market for paddles remains active, with players and fans monitoring developments across continents as pickleball continues to expand.