A Quick Look at Why San Diego Still Lacks a Pickleball Home

The city of San Diego promised a pickleball court at Robb Field—but years later, funding never materialized, and the project may not break ground until the 2030s.

While players wait for studies, permits, and budgets, the sport’s explosive rise tells a different story. Pickleball is one of America’s fastest-growing pastimes, yet San Diego still lacks a public facility dedicated to it.

A Simple Solution Denied

For years, the Pickleball Association of San Diego has advocated for a straightforward fix: convert just six underused tennis courts at Robb Field into 18 pickleball courts.

Their offer? Self-fund the conversion—no taxpayer burden.

The city rejected it, citing concerns over noise and tennis court compatibility. Yet just miles away, the Barnes Tennis Center proves these fears unfounded: it now hosts 19 pickleball courts alongside tennis and padel, with courts booked solid for tournaments and casual play.

If it works there, why not at Robb Field?

Who Really Controls Public Courts?

Despite the demand, pickleball players have no say in court allocation. Decisions on pricing, scheduling, and programming rest with tennis stakeholders or external event organizers—often charging players hundreds per tournament.

A player-run facility could prioritize community programs—youth clinics, senior play, beginner lessons—over commercial gains.

Tennis already dominates 13 public courts in San Diego. Pickleball? None.

The Choice Is Clear

The city doesn’t need to wait decades for funding. It can repurpose existing space and give pickleball the same opportunities as established sports.

This isn’t just about a court—it’s about fair access and inclusion in San Diego’s recreational future.