Priyanka Mehta Wins in Women’s Singles: Maharashtra’s Priyanka Mehta continued her winning spree and clinched the 35+ Women’s Singles title at the 4th IPA Pickleball Nationals held at Bennett University on January 25.
Impressive Comeback After a Long Hiatus
A Chartered Accountant by profession, Priyanka has an inspiring story. She was a junior tennis player but stepped away from the sport for 20 years.
Her return to competitive play only started a couple of years ago, but she has since shown remarkable prowess on the pickleball court with a DUPR rating of 4.463.
Smooth Transition from Tennis to Pickleball
Priyanka’s tennis background has given her an advantage in pickleball.
“Yes, I do (have a tennis background). I was a junior player but I stopped playing for a good 20 years. And a couple of years ago, like 2-3 years ago, I took up playing tennis again. So that was a good 20 years later and I was number 1 in 35 and 40 plus in tennis.” – (Priyanka)
She emphasizes that while mastering doubles and mixed doubles requires skill, she is improving with every tournament.
“It’s been very smooth (transition) because as a tennis player, I have the upper edge with my drives and slowing down the game in doubles, mixed doubles obviously takes a lot of skill work but I am getting better each tournament.” – (Priyanka)
Dominant Performance at the IPA Nationals
At the IPA Nationals, Priyanka’s talent shone as she secured the 35+ Women’s Singles title. She previously claimed four titles at the PWR DUPR India Masters in Delhi.
Despite facing challenging weather conditions, she remained focused and determined, celebrating her victory in the final.
“It’s been amazing (experience), very cold weather, so I am coping up with the wind and the cold. But it has been a fantastic experience, love the venue, the infrastructure, love the courts, the feel of the court, so it’s been great so far.” – (Priyanka)
Pickleball’s Growing Popularity in India
As pickleball continues to grow globally, Priyanka believes its future is bright in India.
“Right now, it’s booming and I hope it continues to do so. So, I feel younger by the year and I’m sure I would love to play for as long as I can.” – (Priyanka)
News in Brief: Priyanka Mehta Wins in Women’s Singles
Maharashtra’s Priyanka Mehta claimed the 35+ Women’s Singles title at the 4th IPA Pickleball Nationals on January 25.
A former junior tennis player, she returned to competitive play after a 20-year break, showcasing her skills with a DUPR rating of 4.463. Priyanka praised Bennett University’s facilities and expressed optimism about the growing popularity of pickleball in India.
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