Protect Your Eyes on the Court: The Truth About Pickleball Eye Injuries and How to Prevent Them

Pickleball’s rise has been one of the most remarkable stories in sports. Millions of new players have picked up a paddle, courts are full, and communities are thriving. As the game grows, so does the spotlight on player safety, especially when it comes to eye protection.

Over the past month, headlines across major news outlets have highlighted a concerning uptick in pickleball-related eye injuries. While the numbers may sound alarming, the takeaway isn’t to play less; it’s to play smarter. A recent study in JAMA Ophthalmology sheds light on where the risks lie and what players can do to prevent them.

What the Data Shows: Eye Injuries Are on the Rise

According to the October 2025 study published in JAMA Ophthalmology (Lacher, Koc & Tsui, 2025), pickleball-related eye injuries have surged dramatically as participation has skyrocketed. (Read the full study here.)

Key findings include:

• Between 2005 and 2024, U.S. emergency departments recorded an estimated 3,112 pickleball-related ocular injuries.
• In 2024 alone, there were an estimated 1,262 injuries—a record high.
• The rate of injuries increased by roughly 405 cases per year from 2021 to 2024.
• Players aged 50 and older accounted for the majority of injuries, representing a 39% higher share compared to younger players.
• The leading causes were ball impacts, paddle contact, and falls.
• Injury severity ranged from corneal abrasions and bruising to orbital fractures and retinal detachments.

These findings don’t mean pickleball is unsafe. They show that as more people play, especially at close quarters, awareness and preparation are key.

Why Pickleball Eye Injuries Are Happening More Often

The increase in injuries mirrors the sport’s incredible growth. More players, faster play, and busier courts mean less reaction time and more close-range shots.

Pickleball’s accessibility is one of its greatest strengths. It attracts players of all ages and experience levels. That diversity also means a wide range of physical abilities, reflex speeds, and play styles on the same court. Education and smart preparation help everyone enjoy the game more safely, no matter their background or experience.

Pickleball Eye Protection: How to Stay Safe on the Court

1. Make Eye Protection Part of Your Gear

Treat eye protection like your paddle or court shoes—essential equipment. The right eyewear not only helps prevent injuries but also improves visibility and comfort so you can play your best every match.

When choosing protective eyewear for pickleball, look for these key features:

• Impact Resistance: Choose polycarbonate or Trivex lenses, which are designed to withstand fast-moving impacts without shattering.
• Anti-Fog Coating: Keeps your lenses clear and your vision unobstructed, even during intense rallies or humid indoor play.
• Reflective or Anti-Glare Lenses: Reduces glare from overhead lighting or sunlight, helping you track the ball with precision.
• UV Protection: Shields your eyes from harmful rays, especially for outdoor players who spend hours on court.
• Prescription Compatibility: If you need corrective lenses, many models allow your prescription to be built directly into the protective eyewear—so you don’t have to compromise safety for vision.
• Wraparound Frames: These offer better coverage against both direct hits and glancing blows, keeping your eyes protected from all angles.

Bonus: Protective eyewear not only prevents injuries, but can also enhance your performance by reducing glare and sharpening your focus.

2. Warm Up and Stay Balanced

A good warm-up helps every player react quickly and move confidently.

Before each match, take a few minutes to stretch, move, and find your balance. A stable stance and smooth footwork reduce the risk of slips or falls.

3. Communicate and Stay Aware

Many paddle-related injuries happen because doubles partners collide or swing too close. Learn to communicate effectively with your partner to prevent injury:

• Always call “mine” or “yours.”
• Keep visual contact with your partner and opponents.
• Maintain spacing and avoid standing directly behind another player during rallies.

A little communication goes a long way toward keeping everyone safe and focused.

4. Focus on Control, Not Just Power

Controlled, well-placed shots are not only smarter strategically, they’re also safer.

Avoid swinging at eye-level balls with unnecessary force, and be mindful of your opponent’s position. Precision protects both your rally and your safety.

5. Don’t Ignore Warning Signs

If you’re ever struck near the eye, stop play and assess immediately. Watch for blurred or double vision, flashes, floaters, pain, or bleeding.

Even a mild impact can cause an internal eye injury. Seek prompt care from an ophthalmologist, as early treatment can make all the difference.

What Pickleball Clubs and Programs Can Do to Promote Eye Safety

Community pickleball programs, clubs, and facilities play a vital role in promoting a safety-first culture:

• Encourage or provide protective eyewear, especially for new players.
• Stock approved eyewear in pro shops or at check-in.
• Include eye-safety reminders in orientations, newsletters, and tournament briefings.
• Display simple signage near courts: “Protect Your Eyes — Play Smart.”

When clubs lead by example, players follow, and the whole community benefits.

Bottom Line: Protect Your Eyes, Protect Your Game

The new JAMA Ophthalmology study makes one thing clear: as pickleball grows, eye injuries are becoming more common, but also more preventable.

With the right habits and gear, players of all ages can enjoy every rally with confidence.

So before you step on court next time, take a moment to gear up, warm up, and protect your most valuable asset—your vision.