Why Tennis Might Be the Most Powerful Sport You’re Not Playing (Yet)

Earlier this month, I had the chance to attend the USTA Annual Conference in Carlsbad, San Diego—a gathering of coaches, community leaders, and sport-for-good advocates who believe in one powerful truth: tennis changes lives.

Across panels and on-court demos, one message came through loud and clear: tennis is more than a game—it’s a lifelong invitation to move, connect, and grow. Whether you’re a first-timer or a lifelong fan, tennis has something for you. And science backs it up: studies show that tennis players live longer, healthier lives than those who don’t play sports at all.

A Sport That Grows With You

Tennis meets you where you are. It doesn’t require you to be perfect. It asks you to show up, swing, laugh, reset, and keep going.

We keep sharing this same messgae: no matter where you are in your journey, you are always an athlete.
Even if you're not in uniform. Even if you’re not competing. Even if you’re starting from scratch.

Movement is still movement. Growth is still growth. And showing up matters.

That’s why I love tennis. It can be a lifelong sport for some or it can be a great answer to "whats next?" or "how should I move my body". It offers a space to be a beginner again—and still feel strong, supported, and connected.

Meet Red Ball: Tennis for Every Age and Stage

One of the most exciting things we explored at the conference was Red Ball tennis—a version of the game designed for new players of all ages. It uses a smaller court, slower balls, and lighter racquets to make tennis approachable and fun from the very first hit.

Red Ball isn’t just for kids. It’s for adults trying something new. It’s for former competative athletes stepping back into movement. It’s for anyone who wants to move their body, build confidence, and experience joy in motion.

Always a Court to Come Back To

The USTA Annual Conference was a reminder that tennis isn't just for the elite or the experienced — it’s for all of us. It’s for anyone looking for movement, joy, and connection. It’s for those navigating transitions, rediscovering strength, or simply craving something new.

Whether it’s Red Ball or rallying with friends, tennis invites us to be present, playful, and persistent. It gives us space to grow at our own pace, to compete if we want to, and to just move if we don’t.

So if you’ve ever wondered what’s next…
If you’ve ever missed the feeling of being an athlete…
If you’re looking for something that meets you where you are — tennis might be the most powerful sport you’re not playing (yet).

Game on.