This summer, a massive 30,000-square-foot sports and entertainment complex is set to energize the Seaport district with the rhythmic thwack of paddles. Say hello to Ballers — a new hybrid venue blending outdoor pickleball and padel courts with a vibrant social scene featuring a bar, café, and regular community events like themed nights and friendly tournaments. When colder weather hits, the venue plans to convert the pickleball courts into an ice skating rink, complete with heaters and winter cocktails to keep guests cozy.
Slated for a mid-July debut in Boston, Ballers is backed by a lineup of notable athlete investors, including tennis legends Kim Clijsters, Sloane Stephens, and Andre Agassi (who’s now immersed in pickleball), as well as professional pickleball player Connor Garnett and NBA standout Tyrese Maxey. The Boston site follows the brand’s first opening in Philadelphia in June. Over the next decade, the company plans to roll out more than 50 locations nationwide.
Why Boston? “It’s a legendary sports town,” says founder and CEO David Gutstadt. His mission is to bring people together through racquet sports and shared social moments — especially in bustling urban environments. “Our goal is to use sports as a way to build community,” Gutstadt adds.
Offering a high-end atmosphere without exclusivity, Ballers aims to deliver a premium experience — similar to a private athletic club — but with no mandatory membership. Still, for those who want added perks, two levels of monthly membership will be available. These packages will include benefits like free open play, early court reservations, discounted lessons, food and drink deals, and reduced retail pricing.
Boston’s Ballers location will house five pickleball courts and three professionally designed padel courts — the first of their kind in the city — equipped for year-round action. The pickleball courts will double as a synthetic ice skating rink in the winter months. Whether you're brand new to racquet sports or an experienced player, lessons will be available, and drop-in sessions will make it easy to join group play.
Originating in Mexico, padel is a fast-paced game typically played in doubles on a glass-walled court using tennis balls and solid racquets. Gutstadt, a former collegiate tennis athlete, admits he’s become “hooked” on the sport. “It’s definitely a tougher skill set than pickleball,” he notes.
Padel is seeing a rapid rise worldwide. The International Padel Federation estimates that approximately 25 million people play globally, with especially high popularity in Spain, Argentina, and Mexico. Courts now exist in over 90 countries.
As for pickleball? Its momentum shows no signs of slowing. “Young players are flocking to it,” says Gutstadt. “It’s making its way into schools, and a whole new generation is picking it up.” A recent industry report revealed that nearly 20 million Americans played pickleball last year — a 311% increase over three years — with the average age of participants now just under 35.
Of course, the experience goes beyond the courts. After breaking a sweat, players can unwind with beer, wine, or hard seltzers. About a month after the venue’s July launch, an open-air café will also debut under a shaded pergola. The menu is being crafted by acclaimed chef Mitch Prensky — a James Beard Award semi-finalist known for Supper Philly, L’Ecole, and Lutece. While specific dishes are still in development, Gutstadt promises it will feature “locally inspired” fare.
