Turkey leads tennis growth in Europe over the last five years

Turkey has emerged as a leader in tennis growth across Europe, achieving an impressive 443% increase in the number of people playing tennis, according to the ITF Global Tennis 2024 report.

Across Europe, the total number of tennis players has risen to 29.6 million. Among all European countries, Turkey stands out, with its tennis-playing population reaching 250,000 in 2024, compared to just 46,000 five years earlier.

This remarkable growth surpasses other countries such as Lithuania (200% increase), the UK (133%), and Austria (129%). Thanks to this achievement, Turkey now ranks among the top 10 European countries experiencing the most significant tennis development, alongside leaders like the UK, Germany, and France.

Turkey’s progress is largely attributed to substantial improvements in its tennis infrastructure. The number of tennis courts in the country has surged from around 1,000 to over 7,200 by 2024. This dramatic expansion has elevated Turkey from 11th to 3rd place globally in terms of court availability, trailing only Poland, which leads with 12,300 courts.

Despite these advancements, challenges remain. Only 39% of Turkey’s courts are affiliated with national or international tennis associations, indicating potential for greater integration to maximize the facilities’ impact on tennis development.

The court distribution also reflects Turkey’s outdoor focus. Over half of the courts are floodlit, enabling evening play and tournaments, while 26% are unlit outdoor courts, catering primarily to recreational or daytime use. Indoor courts make up just 17% of the total, consistent with Turkey’s mild climate. However, expanding indoor facilities could support year-round training and bolster the country’s competitive edge.

Explore more news and articles about the development of tennis in the Tennis in Europe section.

Cover photo: alibey.com