My personal opinion (and I know no one cares
) on this topic is that each table size and game brings their own set of challenges to the game. A smaller table helps refine positioning ability because you have to avoid congestion. As the balls get less (making them or playing rotation), the play on the table gets easier since the distances are not as long. As the table gets larger, it starts refining your accuracy more. For a home table that you can practice with or grow up on, I strongly believe in getting the biggest table your home can properly fit. For most, that happens to be a 7 footer, sometimes even an 8 footer. Most houses however, can't properly fit a 9 footer.
From a good for the industry or popularity standpoint however, 7 footers have been absolutely great (even critical) for pool. Pool tables are (regardless of size) large, takes a bit of time to learn, somewhat expensive, and very stationary. As I mentioned earlier, most homes and many businesses simply lack the practical space to properly fit a 9 footer or even 8 footer. Most places can fit a 7 footer however and that's something desperately needed for any game/sport/industry wanting to gain widespread popularity and participation; ease of access. Countless of players and potential players start their journey on 7" barboxes and that's where they fell in love with the game. Take that away and you can kiss pool good-bye.
From a good for the industry or popularity standpoint however, 7 footers have been absolutely great (even critical) for pool. Pool tables are (regardless of size) large, takes a bit of time to learn, somewhat expensive, and very stationary. As I mentioned earlier, most homes and many businesses simply lack the practical space to properly fit a 9 footer or even 8 footer. Most places can fit a 7 footer however and that's something desperately needed for any game/sport/industry wanting to gain widespread popularity and participation; ease of access. Countless of players and potential players start their journey on 7" barboxes and that's where they fell in love with the game. Take that away and you can kiss pool good-bye.