Pickleball Paddles Its Way Through India
Pickleball, an easy-to-learn sport that’s inclusive of all ages, genders, and skill levels, is gaining popularity in India. With its unique blend of tennis, table tennis, and badminton, the sport is now set to launch an IPL-style league.
Rising Popularity Among Professionals
Krishna Karthik, a tech product manager in Chennai and former tennis enthusiast, rediscovered his passion for competitive sports through pickleball, a sport he balances alongside his career. Promoted by global icons like Andre Agassi and John McEnroe, pickleball has quickly become a sensation across social media and corporate India, where it’s replacing traditional networking sports like golf.
Corporate Interest and Inclusivity
As an accessible and inclusive sport, pickleball has found favor in the corporate circuit, with 40% of players being women. Played on a badminton-sized court with a slightly larger paddle than table tennis and a perforated plastic ball, it’s easy on the body and suitable for all ages. The All India Pickleball Association (AIPA) is actively promoting the sport by constructing more courts and introducing it to schools.
Growing Investment in Infrastructure
Ujwal Deole, Co-founder and COO of KheloMore Sports, reveals that ₹5 crore will be invested over three years to build 100 state-of-the-art pickleball courts. Interest is growing not only in metro cities but also in smaller towns like Surat, Dhanbad, and Jhansi. Pickleball court listings and bookings on the KheloMore app have seen significant growth in recent months.
Launching the World Pickleball League
Adding to the momentum, the World Pickleball League (WPBL) is set to debut in early 2025. With celebrity endorsements, such as actress Samantha Ruth Prabhu owning the Chennai franchise, the league is attracting considerable interest from corporates eager to invest in this burgeoning sport. Former tennis player Gaurav Natekar, Founder and CEO of WPBL, predicts a bright future for pickleball, noting increasing interest from businesses and potential franchise owners.
A Sustainable Sporting Trend
Despite its newfound popularity, pickleball isn’t just a passing trend. Established in 1965, the sport’s revival today suggests its staying power. As AIPA’s President Arvind Prabhoo notes, the growing prize money in both Indian and international tournaments highlights the sport’s sustainability. Experts believe that pickleball has the potential to rival badminton in India, with increased interest from schools and sports academies.
With continued support and investment, pickleball is poised to become a prominent sport in India, offering a new, inclusive way for people of all ages and backgrounds to connect and compete.