Tennis: The Healthiest Sport, Extending Life Expectancy by Nearly a Decade
Tennis, hailed as “The World’s Healthiest Sport,” has garnered widespread recognition for its exceptional health benefits. A comprehensive study conducted in Copenhagen over a 25-year period revealed that tennis players enjoy a remarkable 9.7-year increase in life expectancy compared to sedentary individuals. This compelling finding has become a primary motivator for people to embrace the sport.
A recent survey conducted by the International Tennis Federation (ITF), YouGov, and Two Circles further corroborates the health-centric appeal of tennis. Among respondents from five major tennis-playing nations, 45% cited health benefits as their primary reason for playing. The social and camaraderie aspects of the sport also emerged as a significant attraction, with 40% of players highlighting its social benefits.
The study focused on players and potential players aged 18 and older, examining the role of tennis in their physical and mental well-being. Notably, beginners aged 35-44 were particularly drawn to the sport for its health benefits. Intermediate and advanced players also emphasized improved physical and mental well-being as their primary motivation.
Encouragingly, over 75% of casual players (playing less than 10 times annually) expressed a desire to increase their frequency of play. This finding underscores the growing awareness of the health benefits associated with tennis.
The ITF’s Global Tennis Report, conducted every Olympic year, provides valuable insights into participation trends and other statistics related to the sport. The full findings of the 2024 report will be unveiled at the organization’s annual general meeting in Hong Kong in October.
