Swiggy Steps Into Pickleball: Swiggy, a leading food delivery company, is stepping into pickleball, one of the fastest-growing sports globally. The company recently announced its acquisition of the rights to a pickleball team in Mumbai, marking a significant moment for the sport in India. This move is part of Swiggy’s strategy to tap into the rapidly increasing popularity of pickleball, which has gained traction among people of all ages and skill levels.
Pickleball’s Growing Popularity
Pickleball is a racquet sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping pong. It is played with a paddle and a plastic ball with holes, often on a smaller court than tennis. The game is easy to learn and appeals to people of all ages, from young players to seniors.
Its fast-paced nature and social aspect make it a fun and exciting sport, with increasing numbers of players and fans globally. In fact, in some countries, pickleball has outpaced even tennis in terms of growth.
The sport has seen a sharp rise in popularity in India, particularly in metropolitan areas, where more recreational players are picking up the paddle. The game’s relatively low barrier to entry, combined with its health benefits and social nature, makes it a great choice for fitness enthusiasts and casual players.
Swiggy’s Entry into Pickleball
Swiggy’s move into pickleball comes at a time when the sport is poised for further growth in India. The company has acquired the rights to own a team in the upcoming Pickleball League, set to launch soon.
“In some countries, it has outpaced even tennis; and there was an opportunity for us to be very early in the game, acquire the rights to own one of the teams in the world, Pickleball League, which will be launched very soon.” – (Rohit Kapoor)
Swiggy will be representing Mumbai in this new competition, and it is one of the first major companies in India to invest in the sport at such a level.
Despite speculation that Swiggy might be venturing into sports management on a larger scale, CEO Rohit Kapoor clarified that the company is not expanding its business into sports events or other areas.
“are not getting into the sports business or in any significant way. Again, clarifying very clearly, we are not getting into sports business or sports events, etcetera. Very specifically, it is about acquiring the rights to the team at this point in time.” – (Rohit Kapoor)
The Potential Impact of Pickleball in India
Pickleball is more than just a growing trend; it has the potential to become a major part of India’s sporting culture. With increasing investments from companies like Swiggy, the sport could see rapid development in terms of professional leagues, infrastructure, and fan engagement.
The Pickleball League, which Swiggy is a part of, is expected to bring more attention to the sport and inspire new players to get involved. This rapid rise in popularity is why Swiggy chose to get involved early, securing its position in the sport’s development in the country.
News in Brief: Swiggy Steps Into Pickleball
Swiggy, a leading food delivery company in India, has entered pickleball by acquiring the rights to a Mumbai-based team in the upcoming Pickleball League. As one of the first major companies to invest in pickleball, Swiggy’s involvement highlights the sport’s rapid growth in India.
Industry experts predict that this move could further boost the sport’s development and popularity, with more players and facilities expected in the coming years.
ALSO READ: Transformation of Pickleball in India: Doubt to Delight
