Pune United’s Visionary Leadership: India’s first professional pickleball league, the World Pickleball League (WPBL), is underway in Mumbai from January 24 to February 2, 2025. The league features six franchises, including Pune United, aiming to boost the sport’s profile and attract players and fans nationwide.
The WPBL was founded by Natekar Sports & Gaming (NSG) in partnership with Sony Entertainment Talent Ventures India. With plans to expand globally, the league aspires to replicate the success of other short-format sports leagues in India.
Pune United’s Visionary Leadership
Pune United is spearheaded by Dr. Ajeenkya DY Patil, Chairman of Ajeenkya DY Patil University, and Pooja Patil. Dr. Patil emphasized the sport’s community-building potential, saying, “Pickleball represents the evolution of sports for the modern generation. It is fast, inclusive, and connects communities.”
Pooja Patil highlighted the franchise’s mission to inspire and unite, stating, “Our aim with Pune United is to create a thriving ecosystem for players and fans.”
The team also boasts celebrity backing from Bollywood stars Riteish Deshmukh and Genelia Deshmukh, alongside industry leaders Dr. Sudhir, Sunanda, and Arihant Mehta. Together, they bring cultural, operational, and innovative strengths to the franchise.
Mumbai as a Launchpad
Mumbai, known for its sports and entertainment culture, provides an ideal setting for WPBL. The city’s strong corporate sponsorship network and passionate fan base are expected to drive the league’s success.
The recent World Pickleball Championship in Mumbai set the stage, achieving over 148 million impressions and reaching 53 million households.
Future Impact
The WPBL promises to transform pickleball into a global sport while fostering local talent. Under Pune United’s visionary leadership, the league is assured to shape India’s sporting future, combining community spirit with professional competition.
News in Brief: Pune United’s Visionary Leadership
India’s first pro pickleball league, the WPBL, runs in Mumbai from Jan 24-Feb 2, 2025, featuring six franchises, including Pune United.
Backed by Dr. Ajeenkya DY Patil, Pooja Patil, and Bollywood stars Riteish and Genelia Deshmukh, Pune United aims to inspire players and fans. WPBL aspires to elevate pickleball globally while fostering local talent and community.
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