Margao-based Nihaal Borkar and Nishad Shevde made history at Goa’s inaugural state pickleball championship, hosted recently at the BPS Club in Margao. Both players achieved triple victories, establishing themselves as standouts in the sport.
Nihaal Borkar’s Triple Triumph
Nihaal Borkar paired with Ruta Borker to secure the 35+ mixed doubles title. Despite losing the first set 10-12, they rallied to defeat Ehrlick and Natasha Viegas De Ataide in three sets (11-7, 11-9).
In the 35+ men’s doubles category, Nihaal partnered with Akhil Lawande to beat Chinmay Kantak and Ehrlick De Ataide with identical scores of 11-6. Nihaal capped off his treble by winning the 35+ men’s singles final against Noel Noronha in straight sets (11-6, 11-5).
Nishad Shevde Shines in Open Categories
Nishad Shevde clinched the open men’s singles title, outplaying Cleon Barreto 11-9, 11-3 in the final. Nishad also teamed with Sweta Kantak to win the open mixed doubles final, overcoming a tough second set to secure victory with scores of 11-5, 10-12, 11-2.
In the men’s open doubles category, Nishad partnered with Ehrlick De Ataide, defeating their opponents 11-8, 11-3 in a match that showcased their exceptional teamwork.
Other Standout Performances
Goa tennis ace Simran Bundela claimed the ladies’ singles title by scoring a cumulative 33 points in matches against Tvisha Sardesai, Solania, and Sumangali. Her dominance in the category was unmatched.
The men’s 50+ doubles final saw a tight match between Lincoln Furtado and Willy Jaques versus Clarence and Noel Noronha. Clarence and Noel emerged victorious, winning 11-3, 7-11, 11-8.
Noel Noronha also excelled in the men’s 50+ singles, defeating Willy Jaques 11-7, 11-6.
In the open ladies’ doubles category, Audrey Menezes and Melanie Chowgule topped the competition based on cumulative points, scoring 22 while conceding just three.
A Successful Championship for Goa
Organized in partnership with the Goa Pickleball Association and the All India Pickleball Association, the championship featured 123 players across 10 categories. Participants competed for a prize pool of approximately ₹1 lakh.
“The enthusiasm shown by players and spectators highlights the growing appeal of pickleball in Goa,”(an official from the Goa Pickleball Association).
The event’s success promises a bright future for the sport in the state.
News in Brief: Nihaal Borkar and Nishad Shevde
Nihaal Borkar and Nishad Shevde triumphed at Goa’s inaugural state pickleball championship, winning triple titles each at Margao’s BPS Club. Borkar excelled in 35+ categories, while Shevde dominated open events. Goa tennis star Simran Bundela claimed the ladies’ singles title. With 123 participants and a ₹1 lakh prize pool, the event showcased pickleball’s growing appeal in Goa.
ALSO READ: Jharkhand’s Rising Pickleball Star Joins Chennai Super Champs in World Pickleball League
