Who Invented Racquetball?

Racquetball was invented by Joe Sobek in the 1950s.

Often called the “Father of Racquetball,” Sobek transformed the game by combining elements of squash and handball.

Explore the fascinating journey of this dynamic sport in our comprehensive Racquetball History article!

Table of Contents

Racquetball Invention Timeline

1949: Joe Sobek invents racquetball, inspired by squash, handball, and paddleball.
1952: Sobek establishes Paddle Rackets Association to promote and standardize the sport.
1956: First official national paddle rackets championship held in the United States.
1969: First professional racquetball championship takes place in St. Louis, Missouri.
1970: Paddle Rackets Association rebranded as International Racquetball Association (IRA).
1981: First Racquetball World Championship held, solidifying its international standing.
1983: Racquetball included in Pan American Games, expanding global reach.
1990s: International Racquetball Federation (IRF) formed, replacing the IRA.
1995: Sport’s inclusion in Pan American Games in Argentina boosts international spread.
2000s: Racquetball evolves with focus on accessibility, inclusivity, and innovative equipment.

Joe Sobek’s Creation: Professional tennis and handball player Joe Sobek invented racquetball in 1949.
Influential Sports: Racquetball was inspired by elements of squash, handball, and paddleball.
First Racquet: Sobek designed the first stringed racquet, initially called the ‘paddle racquet,’ which evolved into modern racquets.
Paddle Rackets Association: In 1952, Sobek founded this association to promote, standardize, and organize racquetball tournaments.
International Recognition: The International Racquetball Association and later the International Racquetball Federation played crucial roles in popularizing the sport globally.