India Gears Up for World Pickleball Championships: The upcoming World Pickleball Championships (WPC), scheduled for November 12-17 in Mumbai, is drawing increasing attention as top athletes from the All India Pickleball Association (AIPA) view it as a pivotal event in the sport’s growth across the country. This landmark competition highlights India’s expanding interest in pickleball and is set to feature some of the world’s best players, showcasing the country’s potential on the global stage.
Indian Players Optimistic About Increased Popularity
Indian athletes, such as Vanshik Kapadia, Tejas Mahajan, Vrushali Thakare, and Isha Lakhanai, are hopeful that hosting the prestigious event will accelerate pickleball’s development in India. Vanshik Kapadia, who recently clinched gold in men’s doubles and mixed doubles at the Asia Pickleball Games, expressed his excitement: “Hosting the World Pickleball Championships in India is an incredible opportunity for us. Thanks to AIPA’s efforts in grassroots development, we now have access to facilities and training programmes that are preparing us to compete internationally. It’s amazing to see the sport gaining recognition here.”
Tejas Mahajan, who partnered with Vanshik to win gold at the same event, echoed similar sentiments: “AIPA has been a constant pillar of support, helping us hone our skills and challenging us to reach our highest potential. Competing in events abroad, like those in Vietnam and Bali, has boosted our confidence, and I believe the exposure we’re getting at home will inspire many more young players to take up the sport.”
AIPA’s Impact on Indian Athletes’ Growth
Vrushali Thakare, a bronze medallist in women’s doubles at the Asia Pickleball Games, highlighted the role AIPA’s grassroots programs have played in nurturing the sport: “AIPA’s grassroots programmes have been instrumental in preparing us for international challenges. The backing we receive allows us to perform well on the global stage and brings India closer to becoming a competitive force in pickleball.”
A Platform for Indian Athletes to Shine
The World Pickleball Championships will offer Indian athletes invaluable experience as they compete against top-tier international players, further propelling the sport’s popularity in India.
News in Brief: India Gears Up for World Pickleball Championships
The World Pickleball Championships (WPC) are set to take place in Mumbai from November 12-17, marking a major step in India’s growing interest in the sport. Indian players, including Vanshik Kapadia, Tejas Mahajan, Vrushali Thakare, and Isha Lakhanai, are excited about the opportunity to compete on home soil. They credit the All India Pickleball Association (AIPA) for its role in developing pickleball at the grassroots level, providing the infrastructure and training needed to help athletes compete internationally.
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