The final numbers on tennis industry growth for 2007 won't be in for a few months, but already the year-in-review numbers are looking very strong. Research by the Tennis Industry Association, U.S. Tennis Association, Taylor Research, and Sports Marketing Surveys shows:
- Tennis participation grew to 25.1 million in 2007; it's the first time since 1999 that 25 million has been broken.
- Adult league programming jumped from 11.6 hours per week in 2005 to 13.3 hours per week in 2007
- Racquet shipments to retailers are up 37 percent and ball shipments are up 14 percent since 2003
- Youth racquet sales show the biggest gains with a 50 percent increase since 2003
The full results of this year's endeavors to grow the game will be released in April.
Enjoy the holidays, and best wishes for 2008!
