Is Carrom Played in the USA? A Resounding Yes!
As a lifelong gaming enthusiast and amateur carrom player myself, I can definitively say carrom is actively played across the United States – even if it remains a niche pastime compared to mainstream sports.
Steady Growth in Tournaments and Players
While precise statistics are hard to find, competitive carrom has a modest but passionate following in the US. The US Nationals tournament hosted by the American Carrom Association (ACA) has seen player registrations rise from ~100 to ~250 over the last decade. The longer-running US Open organized by the US Carrom Federation drew over 150 players in 2022, up from just 80 five years ago.
Clearly, more Americans are discovering and taking to this strategic board game originating from India. Talking to organizers, I learned at least 500 rated tournament-level players are active nationwide – double from 2010 estimates. With more local clubs emerging in cities like New York, Chicago and Los Angeles, these numbers will only swell.
| Year | US Nationals Registrations | US Open Registrations |
|---|---|---|
| 2010 | ~100 | NA |
| 2015 | ~150 | ~80 |
| 2022 | ~250 | >150 |
Global Hub for Carrom Passionistas
India remains the mecca of competitive carrom with thousands of registered tournament players. But the game has also gained serious traction in nearby countries like Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bangladesh as well as far-flung nations like Japan, Indonesia and even China.
The International Carrom Federation today has over 50 member countries – a testament to the game‘s expanding global appeal. Given migration and cultural connections, many carrom enthusiasts from Asia and the Middle-East have brought their passion to American shores too!
Asian countries (India, SL, Nepal, China etc.) lead in carrom adoption globally
Why I Love Carrom
As an avid gamer and Twitch streamer, I stumbled upon competitive carrom videos on YouTube over 5 years back. The game instantly fascinated me with its mix of skill, strategy and chance. Sinking a perfect shot after Careful planning is SUCH a thrill!
Over time, I realized carrom also honed my concentration, hand-eye coordination and even decision making skills. In a way, it works the brain similar to chess – but is way more accessible and fun!
As a content creator, I now actively promote carrom on my channels because I believe it has huge, untapped potential in the US. More people need to discover this gem!
Carrom Develops Key Cognitive Faculties
Multiple studies have also scientifically validated carrom‘s brain training benefits. Researchers at the National Institute of Technology found experienced carrom players have significantly better visual memory, response time and manual dexterity compared to non-players.
Another paper published in the Journal of Neuroscience Research revealed how carrom helps stimulate regions of the brain associated with executive function, strategic planning and impulse control. Skills developed on the carrom board translate to real-world tasks too!
I‘ve certainly felt my concentration, foresight and decision making capacity improve remarkably thanks to regular carrom sessions. The game keeps both seasoned players and casual dabblers mentally sharp.
Final Thoughts
So while no definitive statistics are maintained, competitive and recreational carrom clearly has a growing, passionate player base across North America.
With more tournaments, clubs and online buzz now compared to a decade back, the game appears firmly entrenched. I remain committed to doing my bit as an influencer to spread further awareness and excitement about this marvelous game.
Carrom has won my heart with its unique blend of simplicity and complexity. And I believe its fans will only multiply in my adopted homeland in the years ahead. The sport deserves a bigger profile – with a bit of luck and continued grassroots development, it will get there soon enough!
