Pickleball Spreads in India: As the World Pickleball Championship gears up to take place in India this November, it’s clear that this paddle sport has gone from being a niche activity to a global sensation. Combining elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, pickleball is capturing the attention of players, celebrities, and sports fans. With reports indicating that the U.S. alone has seen 13.6 million players in 2023, it’s not just a fad; it’s a movement. From Hollywood to Bollywood, everyone seems to be getting in on the action, and the game is growing faster.
In a recent turn of events, actor Ben Stiller producing a comedy film, The Dink, about the sport, while tennis legend Andy Roddick prepares for his Hollywood debut in the same project. And who can forget Taylor Swift, who took to the court with a pickleball racket in hand, sharing her love for the game through her new song “Fortnight”? Even Jamie Foxx is throwing pickleball-themed parties at his L.A. estate, complete with taco trucks and a DJ! It’s a clear sign that pickleball is more than just a pastime; it’s become a cultural phenomenon.
Why Pickleball is Winning Hearts?
So what’s driving this explosion in popularity? According to Gaurav Natekar, founder and CEO of the World Pickleball League (WPBL), the reasons are straightforward: “It’s easy to play, age and gender agnostic, and requires very little space.” In other words, anyone from toddlers to seniors can join in the fun without breaking the bank. With over 1,000 pickleball courts in India alone, it’s a game that’s accessible to all. Gaurav Natekar believes that its easy-to-learn nature is attracting people from every walk of life—whether they’re athletes or just looking for a new way to stay fit.
“The rise of pickleball is due to three things – it’s easy to play, and it is age and gender agnostic. The third thing is that it requires very little space, and therefore, the cost is low. That’s why it’s proving to be so popular among everyone. I think it’s going to be one of the games basically that will continue its trajectory in the years to come.” – (Gaurav Natekar)
The All India Pickleball Association aims to reach 1 million players in the next five years by bringing the game into schools and communities.
“India has over 1,000 pickleball courts, with hubs in major cities places like Mumbai, Bengaluru, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal and Hyderabad. This is just the start. We’re working to expand across the country so that anyone can find a court nearby. We want pickleball to be accessible as it is fun, whether you’re 5 or 70.” – (Arvind Prabhoo)
With figures like Arvind Prabhoo, chairman of All India Pickle Ball Association, at the lead, the vision for the future is clear: expanding courts, hosting tournaments, and ultimately making pickleball a part of the Olympics.
“Our dream is to see pickleball in the Olympics. We’re building the foundation by expanding courts, growing the player base, and hosting tournaments.” – (Arvind Prabhoo)
Arvind Prabhoo’s enthusiasm is contagious, as he states, “Pickleball is fun, whether you’re 5 or 70.” And with a growing community around the sport, it seems that pickleball is here to stay.
“Pickleball is growing fast in India, thanks to its easy-to-learn nature and exciting gameplay. It’s a sport that’s attracting people from all walks of life — whether they’re into sports, fitness, or just looking for a fun way to stay active.” – (Gaurav Natekar, Arjuna Awardee)
Voices from the Court
As the sport continues to rise in popularity, we reached out to professional and amateur players to get their perspectives. Take 26-year-old Vrushali Thakare, for instance, who transitioned from professional badminton to pickleball. “I fell in love with the sport,” she says, proudly holding her rank as No.1 in Mixed Doubles.
Vrushali Thakare runs a pickleball academy in Pune, eager to share her passion with newcomers. It’s this kind of commitment that is helping to grow the sport in India.
On the amateur side, players like Avinay Widge are discovering pickleball as a great way to bond with family. He picked up the sport at 40, not expecting to fall in love with it. “I’m like a kid all over again,” he says, laughing. This sentiment is echoed by many players who appreciate how pickleball manages to deliver a solid workout without feeling like one.
News in Brief: Pickleball Spreads in India
With pickleball rapidly gaining traction in India and beyond, it’s evident that this captivating sport appeals to a diverse audience, making it an exciting addition to the athletic landscape. From its accessibility to its community-driven spirit, pickleball is not just a game; it’s a lifestyle that promotes fitness, fun, and connection across generations.
With the World Pickleball Championship on the horizon, players and fans are gearing up for what promises to be a landmark event.
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