I’m ready to score.
Dating sometimes feels more like a sport than a quest for romance, and recent data suggests that by 2026, it could be one of the most effective ways to find love.
This insight comes from Feeld, a dating app that focuses on an “open-minded” lifestyle. Their research highlights emerging trends in human sexuality, desire, identity, and connections observed over the past year.
So, if you’re planning to look for love in 2026, experts in the dating app industry recommend getting outdoors and staying active. They point out that sports and outdoor activities are becoming popular avenues for meeting potential partners.
Experts note that young singles are increasingly driven by interest in sports and physical activities, which is turning into a form of social currency for building connections.
From running clubs to tennis matches, people are weaving organized sports into their social lives as a way to meet others.
Dr. Luke Branning, who teaches applied ethics and co-directs the Center for Love, Sex and Relationships at the University of Leeds, explains that engaging in structured activities fosters social interactions and intimacy.
In addition, he mentions the increasing visibility of women in sports, the rise of niche sports on social media, and a cultural focus on health and fitness, which is likely to elevate the role of sports in dating.
Survey data reveals that Gen Z is most interested, with sports representing eight of the top ten topics among them. What began with running clubs as casual meet-ups for Gen Z and Millennials has now evolved into a booming trend where sports are a key method of connecting.
The report indicates that interest in sports like tennis, football, and basketball has surged by 300 to 600 percent.
Tennis alone has experienced a nearly 600% rise in interest, while activities like basketball, football, running, swimming, and gym workouts have all seen increases of around 4.5 times, or about 350%.
Interest in sports is shifting toward being the new way to connect, a sentiment echoed by many.
Interestingly, during this year’s Fan Week at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, the U.S. Open filmed a YouTube series focused on love, featuring eight couples exploring their potential as partners both in life and on the court.
Participants were required to have a genuine passion for tennis and a desire to experience the US Open.
Alana Glenn Moritz, creative director at Fresh Tape Media, noted that the U.S. Open transcends being a mere tournament; it serves as a cultural platform. She emphasized that the series captures the dynamic energy of the event in a fresh and unexpected way.
Similarly, at the Ryder Cup held in September, single women abandoned dating apps in favor of mingling at the golf tournament in search of eligible men.
Comedian Heather McMahan even suggested on her podcast that women from the tri-state area should head to Bethpage to meet someone, prompting many to take her advice.
One single woman from Fair Lawn, New Jersey, Colleen Griparich, reflected on her experience, noting that upon arrival, she was surprised by the sheer number of men present. “They all looked nice because they were wearing golf shirts. Who doesn’t look good in a golf shirt?” she quipped.
Pickleball courts in New York City have also become popular for young adults seeking romantic connections, as it allows them to engage casually with others while playing.
And then there are running clubs, which are often dubbed “the new Tinder” for singles looking to date.
Dr. Zach Turner noted that organized sports can help single people connect and bond over shared experiences.
Plus, the appeal of activewear means there’s no need to fret over what to wear for a first date.
If someone’s main interests are “the gym and crypto,” it’s simpler to engage face-to-face without the need for swiping, and at least you leave with a solid workout.
