Toulouse, France – A new sport is rapidly gaining traction in the “Ville Rose,” with the Smash Pickleball Club attracting over 500 players each week. The club, which opened its doors in September 2025, is becoming a central hub for the burgeoning pickleball community in southwestern France, offering a blend of competitive play, social gatherings, and a growing sense of camaraderie.
Inside a largely concrete sports complex north of Toulouse, the distinctive *pop* of pickleball resonates. It’s a sound distinct from tennis or ping-pong, signaling a sport that’s quickly finding its footing in France. Pickleball, originating in the United States, is played on a smaller court than tennis, utilizing a lower net and a perforated plastic ball. The accessible nature of the game is a key factor in its growing appeal.
Smash Pickleball Club, the first dedicated indoor pickleball facility in Toulouse, currently boasts seven courts – six covered and one outdoor. Players can reserve court time online for one- or 1.5-hour slots. The club offers coaching sessions on Mondays, singles tournaments on Tuesdays, and doubles play on Wednesdays, catering to a diverse range of skill levels. The growing popularity is evident in the constant flow of both regular players and newcomers.
“People are always coming, but we also spot a lot of new faces – there’s a good turnover,” explains Nicolas Lemozy, the club’s manager. A WhatsApp group with over 300 members facilitates players connecting for matches, particularly filling up tournament evenings. The club’s success demonstrates a clear appetite for alternative racquet sports in the region.
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To accommodate the increasing demand, the club is planning to expand its staff. Further developments are on the horizon, including a partnership with local chef Taudoc to establish a burger stand near the outdoor court when the weather improves. The aim is to create a festive atmosphere, with approximately 50 seating areas, resembling a traditional *guinguette* – a French open-air café.
A large screen will also be installed to broadcast matches from the FIFA World Cup, beginning in June. This addition underscores the club’s ambition to turn into a multifaceted sports and social destination. The club is actively cultivating a vibrant community around the sport.
The sport received a significant boost in January when pickleball was officially integrated into the Fédération Française de Tennis (French Tennis Federation). This affiliation provides increased legitimacy and opens doors for further development, including the potential to host national championships. Lemozy is part of a committee dedicated to growing the sport within France, noting a growing interest among players to improve their skills.
Mathieu Roy, currently ranked fourth in France, trains at the Smash Pickleball Club, further elevating the club’s profile within the national pickleball scene. The club is quickly becoming a focal point for competitive pickleball in France.
Smash Pickleball Club is located at 3 rue de l’Égalité, Toulouse, and is open daily from 9:00 AM to 10:30 PM. Contact information is 06 34 23 05 34.
The rapid growth of pickleball in Toulouse reflects a broader trend of the sport’s increasing popularity across Europe. Its accessibility, social nature, and relatively easy learning curve are attracting players of all ages and athletic abilities. The success of Smash Pickleball Club demonstrates the potential for pickleball to establish a strong foothold in the French sporting landscape.
As the sport continues to evolve and gain recognition, the future looks bright for pickleball in Toulouse and beyond. The club’s commitment to fostering a welcoming community and providing high-quality facilities positions it as a key driver of this exciting new sporting phenomenon.
