Soft Tennis Surge: Why This Asian Favorite Is Trending Globally in 2026

Last updated: August 24, 2026

Quick Answer

Soft tennis is a racket sport played with a hollow rubber ball instead of a pressurized felt one, making it easier on joints and faster to learn than standard tennis. The Soft Tennis Surge: Why This Asian Favorite Is Trending Globally in 2026 comes down to three things: a packed international event calendar headlined by the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games, rising investment from Southeast Asian federations, and a digital media boom that’s streaming matches to new audiences worldwide. If you’ve been curious about trying a new racket sport, this is a great time to pay attention.

Key Takeaways

• 🎾 Soft tennis uses a hollow rubber ball, which reduces impact and makes the sport more accessible for beginners and older players
• 🌏 Japan leads global participation with an estimated 600,000 registered competitive players and roughly 7 million informal enthusiasts
• 🏆 The 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya (September 18-23) is the sport’s biggest international stage this year [3]
• 📈 Southeast Asian nations like Indonesia and the Philippines are investing heavily and winning medals at major tournaments [8]
• 💰 Entry-level soft tennis gear costs significantly less than standard tennis equipment, lowering the barrier to participation
• 🎯 Soft tennis can be played on a standard tennis court with minor adjustments, no specialist facility required
• 📱 Livestreaming and social media are pushing soft tennis content to non-Asian audiences for the first time at scale
• 🏫 Youth development programs in Japan, Korea, and India are building a deep pipeline of competitive players
• 🌍 Around 30 countries currently compete at world championship level, growth is real but Olympic inclusion remains a longer-term goal
• ✅ The sport is genuinely beginner-friendly, especially for players crossing over from badminton, pickleball, or recreational tennis

What Is Soft Tennis and How Is It Different From Regular Tennis?

Soft tennis is a racket sport that uses a hollow rubber ball instead of the pressurized felt ball used in standard (hard) tennis. The rackets are lighter, the ball bounces differently, and the overall pace of play feels more controlled, especially for beginners.

Here’s a side-by-side breakdown of the key differences:

Feature	Soft Tennis	Hard Tennis
Ball	Hollow rubber, ~6.6 cm	Pressurized felt, ~6.7 cm
Racket weight	Lighter (~220-260g)	Heavier (~280-340g)
Court size	Same as tennis	Same as tennis
Net height	Slightly lower at center	Standard 91.4 cm
Scoring	7-point game format	15/30/40/game format
Joint impact	Lower	Higher

The rubber ball deforms on contact and travels more slowly than a hard tennis ball, which gives players more time to react. That makes soft tennis considerably more forgiving for new players, and gentler on wrists, elbows, and shoulders over time.

Why Is Soft Tennis Popular in Asia?

Soft tennis took root in Asia because Japan developed and standardized the sport in the late 19th century, and the region’s school sports programs embedded it deeply into youth culture. Today, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, and China drive the majority of global participation.

In Japan alone, an estimated 600,000 players compete at a registered level, with roughly 7 million more playing informally. A 2025 survey by the Japan Tennis Association reported approximately 3.12 million hard tennis participants in Japan, meaning soft tennis commands a larger share of domestic racket sport activity. School clubs (called bukatsudō) are a major reason: soft tennis is one of the most common junior high school sports in Japan, giving the sport a built-in youth pipeline that feeds national teams year after year. Japan’s 57th National Junior High School Soft Tennis Tournament, scheduled for August 21-23, 2026 in Shimane Prefecture, is one example of how structured that pipeline is [7].

Korea has built its own strong ecosystem, hosting major international events like the 2026 NH NongHyup Bank Incheon Korea Cup (June 15-22) and the Sunchang Open (June 22-30), both drawing national teams from across Asia [4].

Soft Tennis Rules and Scoring Explained

Soft tennis uses a 7-point game format rather than the traditional 15/30/40 scoring system used in hard tennis. A player or team wins a game by reaching 7 points first, with a 2-point advantage required if the score reaches 6-6 (a tiebreak situation).

Key rules to know:

• Matches are typically best-of-three or best-of-five games in competitive play
• Singles and doubles are both common formats; doubles is especially popular at the school and club level
• The serve rotates between players in doubles, similar to standard tennis
• Let serves (where the ball clips the net and lands in) are replayed, just as in hard tennis
• The court dimensions and net are nearly identical to standard tennis, with a slightly lower net center

One notable difference: soft tennis doubles uses a side-by-side formation more often than the traditional net-and-baseline split common in hard tennis doubles, which changes team strategy significantly.

Is Soft Tennis Easier Than Regular Tennis?

For most beginners, yes, soft tennis has a shorter learning curve than standard tennis. The lighter racket, slower ball, and forgiving bounce mean new players can rally consistently much sooner.

That said, “easier to start” doesn’t mean “less skill required at the top.” Elite soft tennis demands precise footwork, sharp net play, and tactical awareness. The techniques also differ enough from hard tennis that experienced hard-court players can’t simply transfer their game directly, they’ll need to adjust their swing mechanics and timing.

Choose soft tennis if you:

• Are new to racket sports and want faster early progress
• Have joint concerns (wrists, elbows, shoulders)
• Want a sport that’s fun to play socially without years of practice
• Are crossing over from badminton or pickleball and want a familiar feel

Stick with hard tennis if you:

• Want to compete in standard tennis tournaments
• Prefer the faster, more powerful ball dynamics
• Already have established hard-tennis technique

If you’re exploring racket sports for the first time, soft tennis is genuinely one of the most accessible entry points in the category, similar in spirit to how pickleball tips often emphasize quick skill gains for new players.

Soft Tennis vs Badminton: Which Is Better for You?

Both sports are beginner-friendly, low-impact, and popular in Asia, but they suit different players. Soft tennis is played outdoors on a full-size court with a rubber ball, while badminton is typically played indoors with a shuttlecock and smaller court.

Factor	Soft Tennis	Badminton
Indoor/Outdoor	Primarily outdoor	Primarily indoor
Court size	Full tennis court	Smaller (13.4m × 6.1m)
Speed of play	Moderate	Very fast
Equipment cost	Low-moderate	Low
Fitness demand	Moderate	High (especially cardio)
Weather dependent	Yes	No

Choose soft tennis if you prefer outdoor play, want a sport that transfers some skills to standard tennis, or enjoy longer rallies. Choose badminton if you want intense cardio, prefer indoor play year-round, or want a sport with a large global club network. For a deeper look at badminton’s global growth, check out the Badminton Market 2026 trends.

Both sports reward consistent practice, and many multi-sport players enjoy both, the racket sports community is welcoming to crossover athletes.

Why Is Soft Tennis Trending Globally Right Now?

The Soft Tennis Surge: Why This Asian Favorite Is Trending Globally in 2026 has three clear engines driving it: a landmark event calendar, aggressive federation investment, and digital media reach.

1. The 2026 Asian Games The 20th Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, feature soft tennis competition from September 18-23, 2026 [3]. This is the sport’s highest-profile international stage, broadcast across Asia and streamed globally. Indonesia has named seven athletes for the event and publicly targeted at least two silver medals [8], signaling that Southeast Asian programs are ready to challenge East Asian dominance.

2. Rising Southeast Asian investment The Philippines won mixed-team gold plus multiple singles medals at the 2026 Korea Cup in Incheon, a result that would have been unthinkable a decade ago. The 104th Dong-A Ilbo National Soft Tennis Championships in South Korea (May 2-9, 2026) drew 135 athletes from seven countries, with organizers describing the scale as approaching Asian Games level [10].

3. Digital media reach The Japan Soft Tennis Federation (JSTA) streams major events on its official YouTube channel. Specialist platforms publish real-time draws and match summaries. Instagram and Facebook reels from the Korea Cup and Sunchang Open are circulating far beyond traditional soft tennis markets [4]. English-language coverage of junior Asian stars is also opening the sport to non-Asian audiences for the first time at real scale.

The broader racket sports boom matters here too. Global tennis participation has grown to roughly 106 million players across 199 countries, and that infrastructure, courts, coaching networks, sports retail, makes it easier for soft tennis to find footholds in new markets.

Soft Tennis Equipment Cost and Where to Buy

Entry-level soft tennis gear is genuinely affordable, which is one of the sport’s biggest advantages for new players. A beginner racket typically costs between $30,$80, and balls are sold in sets for under $20.

What you’ll need to get started:

• Racket: Beginner models from brands like Yonex, Mizuno, and Gosen range from $30,$80. Intermediate rackets run $80,$150.
• Balls: A set of three soft tennis balls costs $10,$20. Brands like Nishi and Dunlop make ISTF-approved options.
• Shoes: Any court shoe works for casual play. Dedicated soft tennis or clay-court shoes offer better grip for $50,$120.
• Grip tape and string: Budget around $10,$20 for grip replacements; restringing costs $15,$40 depending on string type.

Where to buy: Yonex and Mizuno sell directly online and through major sports retailers. In North America and Europe, specialty racket sports retailers or Amazon carry basic sets. In Asia, local sports stores stock a full range of equipment.

Total startup cost for a beginner: roughly $60,$120 for racket, balls, and basic court shoes, considerably less than outfitting for hard tennis. For comparison, check out cheap pickleball paddles to see how other accessible racket sports price their entry-level gear.

Soft Tennis Injury Risk Compared to Hard Court Tennis

Soft tennis carries a lower injury risk than hard court tennis for most recreational players. The hollow rubber ball generates less impact force on contact, the lighter racket reduces strain on the arm and shoulder, and the sport is often played on clay or synthetic surfaces rather than hard acrylic courts.

Common soft tennis injuries are similar to other racket sports, shoulder strain, ankle sprains, and knee stress from lateral movement, but the frequency and severity tend to be lower than in hard tennis, particularly for elbow issues like lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow).

Practical tips to stay injury-free:

• Warm up your shoulder and wrist before play, even for casual matches
• Use proper footwork to avoid overreaching and twisting the knee
• Replace worn grip tape regularly to maintain control and reduce vibration
• Start with shorter sessions if you’re new to the sport

For players managing existing joint issues, soft tennis is often recommended as a lower-stress alternative to hard tennis. The physical benefits of pickleball article covers similar themes around low-impact racket sports if you want to compare.

Countries Where Soft Tennis Is Most Popular and Where to Find It

Japan is the undisputed global center of soft tennis, followed by South Korea, Taiwan, China, and Thailand. The sport has strong institutional roots across East and Southeast Asia, with growing programs in South Asia.

Top countries by participation and competitive depth:

1. Japan, ~600,000 registered players; deepest domestic competition ecosystem [10]
2. South Korea, Major international host; strong national team program
3. Taiwan, Consistent medal contender at Asian Games
4. China, Growing federation investment
5. Thailand, Philippines, Indonesia, Rapidly improving national programs
6. India, Hosted Asian Junior Championships in Ludhiana (February 2026) with ~800 players from 34 countries

Can you play soft tennis on a regular tennis court? Yes. Soft tennis uses the same court dimensions as standard tennis. You’ll need to lower the net slightly at the center (or use a net adjuster strap), but any standard tennis court works for soft tennis. This is one of the biggest practical advantages for players in regions where dedicated soft tennis facilities don’t yet exist.

Finding soft tennis near you:

• Search for local Japanese or Korean community centers, many run soft tennis programs
• Check national soft tennis federation websites (ISTF lists member nations)
• University and college Asian student associations sometimes organize casual games
• Facebook groups and Reddit communities (r/softtennis) connect players globally

The regional growth of pickleball article is a useful parallel for understanding how niche racket sports find new communities, the pattern is very similar for soft tennis in Western markets.

Soft Tennis Tournaments and Competitions in 2026

2026 is the most active international soft tennis calendar in years. Here are the key events:

• Asian Junior Championships, Ludhiana, India, February 2026; under-15, under-18, under-21 categories; ~800 players from 34 countries
• All Japan Singles Championships, May 15-17, 2026 [1]
• 104th Dong-A Ilbo National Championships, Mungyeong, South Korea, May 2-9, 2026; 135 athletes from 7 countries [10]
• NH NongHyup Bank Incheon Korea Cup, June 15-22, 2026; international teams competing [4]
• Sunchang Open, Jeonbuk, South Korea, June 22-30, 2026 [4]
• 3rd North Zone National Championship, Srinagar, India, June 27-28, 2026
• All Japan Corporate Championships, July 31, August 2, 2026 [1]
• 57th National Junior High School Tournament, Shimane, Japan, August 21-23, 2026 [7]
• 20th Asian Games, Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, Soft tennis: September 18-23, 2026 [3]

For players interested in understanding tournament formats across racket sports, the understanding tournament formats guide is a helpful primer.

How to Get Started With Soft Tennis as a Beginner

Getting into soft tennis is straightforward, especially if you already play any racket sport. The key is finding the right equipment, a basic court, and a few willing hitting partners.

Step-by-step starter plan:

1. Get a beginner racket and balls, Spend $40,$80 on a light beginner racket (Yonex or Mizuno are reliable choices) and a set of three rubber balls
2. Find a court, Any standard tennis court works; use a net strap to lower the center net height slightly
3. Learn the grip, Soft tennis uses a continental or semi-western grip, similar to standard tennis; many players find it natural within a few sessions
4. Practice the rally first, Focus on consistent groundstrokes before worrying about serves or scoring
5. Join a club or group, Local Japanese/Korean community centers, university clubs, or online groups are your best bet for finding regular partners
6. Watch tournament footage, The JSTA YouTube channel streams major events; watching elite play accelerates learning faster than most drills

Common beginner mistakes to avoid:

• Using a racket that’s too heavy (stick to lighter frames until your technique is solid)
• Swinging too hard, the rubber ball rewards control over power
• Ignoring footwork, lateral movement is just as important as stroke mechanics

Conclusion: Is Now the Right Time to Try Soft Tennis?

The Soft Tennis Surge: Why This Asian Favorite Is Trending Globally in 2026 is backed by real momentum, a landmark Asian Games appearance, expanding international competition, rising Southeast Asian programs, and a digital media wave that’s introducing the sport to new audiences every week.

For racket sports players looking for something fresh, soft tennis checks a lot of boxes: it’s affordable, accessible, beginner-friendly, and genuinely competitive at the elite level. Whether you’re a recreational player curious about a new challenge or a multi-sport athlete looking to add a lower-impact game to your rotation, this is a great time to pick up a soft tennis racket.

Your next steps:

• 🎾 Buy a beginner racket and a set of rubber balls (under $80 total)
• 🏟️ Book a standard tennis court and try a casual rally session
• 📱 Follow the JSTA YouTube channel and watch the 2026 Asian Games soft tennis coverage in September
• 🤝 Search for a local soft tennis group or community center program near you

The racket sports community is growing fast, and soft tennis is one of its most exciting rising chapters. Jump in, the barrier to entry has never been lower.

FAQ

What ball does soft tennis use? Soft tennis uses a hollow rubber ball, roughly the same size as a standard tennis ball but without internal pressurization. It deforms on impact and travels more slowly, making it easier to control.

Can I use a regular tennis racket for soft tennis? Technically yes, but it’s not ideal. Soft tennis rackets are lighter and strung differently to suit the rubber ball. A standard tennis racket will work for casual play, but you’ll get better results with a proper soft tennis frame.

Is soft tennis in the Olympics? No. The International Soft Tennis Federation (ISTF) is not yet recognized by the International Olympic Committee. The sport currently involves around 30 countries at world championship level, which falls short of Olympic inclusion thresholds. The Asian Games is its top international stage.

How long does a soft tennis match take? A typical competitive match (best-of-three games) takes 30-60 minutes. Recreational sessions can be as short or long as players prefer.

What age is soft tennis suitable for? Soft tennis is suitable for all ages. In Japan, it’s one of the most popular junior high school sports. The lower impact makes it a good option for older adults and players managing joint issues.

Is soft tennis popular outside Asia? Currently, soft tennis is primarily an Asian sport. Small communities exist in parts of Europe, South America, and North America, mostly through diaspora connections, but meaningful participation outside Asia is still limited as of 2026.

How is soft tennis scoring different from regular tennis? Soft tennis uses a 7-point game format. A player wins a game by reaching 7 points with a 2-point lead. There’s no 15/30/40 system. Matches are typically best-of-three or best-of-five games.

What’s the best brand for soft tennis rackets? Yonex, Mizuno, and Gosen are the three most respected brands. Yonex is the most widely available internationally. All three offer beginner-to-advanced models.

Do I need a special court for soft tennis? No. Standard tennis courts work for soft tennis. You may want to adjust the net height slightly at the center, which a simple strap adjuster can handle.

How does soft tennis compare to table tennis? They’re very different sports, soft tennis is played outdoors on a full tennis court, while table tennis is an indoor sport on a small table. Both are popular in Asia, but they share little in terms of technique or equipment. See Table Tennis Market Trends for more on that sport’s growth.

References

[1] Events2026 – https://www.jsta.or.jp/events/events2026 [3] Soft Tennis 2026 Sc – https://softtennishitting.com/2026/07/24/soft-tennis-2026-sc/ [4] Schedule 2026 – http://www.toyokanko-g.co.jp/soft_tennis/schedule_2026.html [7] All Japan Junior Haigh School 2026 – https://softtennishitting.com/2026/08/10/all-japan-junior-haigh-school-2026/ [8] Indonesia Soft Tennis Team Target Two Silvers At 2026 Asian Games – https://en.antaranews.com/amp/news/426627/indonesia-soft-tennis-team-target-two-silvers-at-2026-asian-games [10] Soft Tennis Schedule Index – https://zutto-sports.com/soft-tennis-schedule-index