The French sport of pickleball is experiencing significant growth, particularly in the Charente and Charente-Maritime regions, attracting a diverse player base and garnering recognition from national sporting bodies. While still a relatively new phenomenon in France, the sport’s accessibility and social nature are driving its popularity, with local clubs aiming to expand its reach into schools and communities.
A club in Charente is leading the charge, having established itself as a key reference point for pickleball within the Nouvelle-Aquitaine League. According to a club leader, “We’ve been running this sport for two years now, and we dominate the subject because even the Nouvelle-Aquitaine League didn’t have any regional representation. Today, we are a benchmark for the league because we also want to invest in schools, just like badminton.” This ambition highlights a broader effort to integrate pickleball into the existing sporting landscape.
The appeal of pickleball lies in its inclusive nature. Marlène Vergnol, a sports educator specializing in racquet sports, describes it as “a very playful, fun, and convivial sport. Everyone can participate and have fun right away.” This accessibility is a key factor in attracting players of all ages and skill levels, fostering a sense of community around the game.
Patrick Vigne, founder of the first 100% pickleball club in Charente-Maritime four years ago, attributes the sport’s success to a personal experience. “It followed a trip to the United States where my wife and I fell in love with this sport. We started with four members and now we are full with over 60 players, as we’ve gone from one session per week to six.” Vigne’s club serves as a hub for the sport, but his vision extends beyond its walls. He actively encourages new players to explore the game through affiliated clubs, emphasizing the importance of enjoyment.
The growing interest in pickleball is also reflected in competitive play. Vergnol herself has achieved success on the national stage, winning a doubles title at the inaugural French Open in January 2025, before the sport officially federated with the French Tennis Federation (FFT). She recently secured a victory in the women’s doubles at the K250 tournament in Vaux-sur-Mer, partnering with Marine Vergnol, and finished second in mixed doubles with Yohan Partier. Maxime Le Diacre and Russel Humbles also achieved third-place finishes in their respective mixed doubles categories.
The Vaux-sur-Mer club’s K250 tournament, held in October, attracted 110 players from across France, including some of the country’s top players. This event underscores the increasing competitiveness and recognition of pickleball within the French sporting community. The club’s success is further highlighted by being one of only nine clubs in Charente holding a Pickleball license, demonstrating the growing demand for the sport and the club’s unique position within the region.
Looking ahead, the focus is on expanding the sport’s reach and fostering continued growth. A departmental pickleball interclub championship is scheduled for , in a yet-to-be-determined location. Vergnol is preparing to compete in the qualifying rounds, aiming to build on her recent successes and contribute to the sport’s development. The future of pickleball in Charente appears bright, with continued growth expected and increased opportunities for players of all levels to participate and enjoy the game.
The rise of pickleball in France mirrors a global trend, with the sport gaining popularity for its accessibility and social benefits. The emphasis on shared experiences and community building, as seen in the Charente and Charente-Maritime regions, is likely to be a key driver of its continued success. The sport’s ability to attract families and individuals alike suggests a sustainable model for growth, particularly as clubs like those in Charente and Vaux-sur-Mer actively seek to expand their reach into schools and local communities.
