Study Reveals Pickleball Players Neglect Eye Protection Risks

A new study highlights a concerning trend among pickleball players regarding eye protection. Conducted by Dr. Daniel Henick, an ophthalmology resident at Yale-New Haven Medical Center, the research indicates that players most likely to suffer injuries are the least likely to wear protective eyewear. The findings will be presented at the upcoming AAO 2025, the 129th annual meeting of the American Academy of Ophthalmology.

Dr. Henick’s study emerged after a personal experience on the court, where he was struck in the face by a wayward pickleball. Despite his commitment to wearing eye protection, he observed that he was often the only player doing so. To investigate this issue further, he distributed a survey among players at local pickleball facilities and reviewed footage from a recent professional tournament. A total of 148 responses were collected from amateur players in New Haven County.

Key findings from Dr. Henick’s research revealed alarming statistics regarding protective eyewear usage. Only 20% of professional players reported wearing protective eyewear, while a mere 5% of amateur players did the same. Younger amateur players were particularly neglectful of eye protection. Among the 67 players who acknowledged the importance of eyewear, only 26 used dedicated protective gear, while the remaining 41 relied on regular prescription glasses.

The average pickleball serve can reach speeds of up to 40 mph, posing a significant risk of injury. Players have reported a variety of eye injuries, including corneal abrasions, black eyes, and even vision-threatening retinal tears. Dr. Henick expressed concern over the lack of protective measures, especially given that many players are unaware of the potential dangers or worry that eyewear may be uncomfortable or hinder their performance.

“Most people believe that injuries are rare during play, but they often occur from unexpected angles when the ball deflects off a paddle,” Dr. Henick explained. “You cannot always react quickly enough to these deflections, making protective eyewear essential.”

Dr. Henick aims to raise awareness about the importance of eye protection across all levels of play. He advocates for campaigns that educate players on the risks associated with not wearing protective eyewear. Additionally, he emphasizes the need for more comfortable options to encourage greater adoption among players.

“I want people to understand that investing in eye protection can significantly reduce the risk of injury,” Dr. Henick stated. “This initiative should mark the beginning of a cultural shift toward prioritizing protective eyewear in pickleball.”

The American Academy of Ophthalmology is the largest association of eye physicians and surgeons globally, representing over 32,000 medical doctors dedicated to enhancing eye care standards and advancing research. Their EyeSmart® program aims to provide reliable information about eye health to the public, underscoring the critical nature of preventative measures like eyewear in sports.

For more information about eye health initiatives, visit aao.org.