Andre Agassi Backs Pickleball’s Olympic: Pickleball could become an Olympic sport sooner than expected, says tennis legend and eight-time Grand Slam winner Andre Agassi. At the launch of the Pickleball World Ranking (PWR) DUPR India League, Agassi emphasized the sport’s rapid growth due to its inclusivity, affordability, and accessibility to players of all ages.
Agassi, co-owner of Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating (DUPR), praised pickleball’s ease of learning compared to tennis and cricket.
“Pickleball is a sport that is mentally and physically stimulating and can be played by three generations of a family together,” (Andre Agassi).
Pickleball’s Growing Popularity in America
Highlighting the sport’s success in the United States, Agassi revealed,
“We have 30 million people in America now playing it, more or less, and I promise you, it’s still at its infancy.” He explained how pickleball has positively impacted tennis by transforming underused tennis courts into multi-use spaces for pickleball.
“All of a sudden, eight people are playing in the same space as one tennis game, and economically, they were able to stay alive,” (Andre Agassi).
Agassi encouraged parents to introduce their children to pickleball, citing its affordability and benefits for social development.
“First of all, it’s not going to make you go broke like other sports such as tennis. You can experience success early, which is great for a child’s social development,” (Andre Agassi).
PWR DUPR India League to Boost the Sport
The PWR DUPR India League is set to start in Mumbai in January 2025, following the India Masters tournament held in New Delhi in October 2024. Organized by PWR in collaboration with The Times Group and Pickleball League Asia, the league aims to elevate India’s presence in the international pickleball scene.
After Mumbai, the league will move to Tsu, Japan, before continuing its journey across India in 2025, with events scheduled in Ahmedabad, Pune, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, New Delhi, and Chennai.
Supported by the Indian Pickleball Association, the Asian Pickleball Association, and the Global Pickleball Federation, the league underscores the sport’s growing prominence in India.
Impact and Future Prospects
The PWR DUPR India League highlights the increasing popularity of pickleball globally. With strong endorsements from legends like Agassi and growing infrastructure, pickleball is poised for greater international recognition. Its accessibility, affordability, and appeal to all age groups position it as a potential contender for Olympic inclusion. The upcoming league events promise to further establish India as a key player in the global pickleball community.
News in Brief: Andre Agassi Backs Pickleball’s Olympic
Tennis legend Andre Agassi predicts pickleball could become an Olympic sport soon, citing its rapid growth and accessibility for all ages. With 30 million players in the U.S., he highlights its positive impact on tennis infrastructure. The PWR DUPR India League, starting in Mumbai in January 2025, aims to enhance India’s international presence in pickleball. Supported by major associations, the league reflects the sport’s rising popularity and potential for Olympic inclusion.
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