Mikaeel Ali Baig’s Historic Victory: Mikaeel Ali Baig, a 15-year-old tennis star from Pakistan, is making waves in the sport of pickleball. Known for his success in tennis, including six national championships and representation in the Junior Davis Cup, Mikaeel recently won the Pickleball Pro Junior Championship in Daytona, Florida, competing against over 1,200 players from around the world.
A Rising Star in Pickleball
Mikaeel’s victory at the Daytona tournament earned him a 5 DUPR rating, ranking him among the top 20 under-18 pickleball players globally. This achievement is remarkable, considering he only recently started playing the sport.
“Pickleball is an exciting blend of tennis, badminton, table tennis, and padel,”. “It’s a fast-paced game requiring quick footwork, lower body strength, and strategic thinking.”(Mikaeel Ali Baig)
Embracing Inclusivity
At the tournament, Mikaeel teamed up with Krishna from India for the doubles competition, showcasing the inclusive nature of pickleball. While some people worry that pickleball might distract tennis players, Mikaeel believes it complements his tennis skills.
“My multi-sport background, including taekwondo and gymnastics, has significantly enhanced my tennis game,” (Mikaeel Ali Baig).
He also mentioned that many top tennis players, like Jack Sock and Andre Agassi, are now competing in pickleball.
Promoting Pickleball in Pakistan
Mikaeel and his family are dedicated to introducing pickleball to Pakistan. He plans to meet with the President of the Pakistan Tennis Federation, Aisam Ul Haq, to discuss ways to grow the sport in the country. They aim to establish pickleball courts in cities like Multan, seeking support from local businesses like the Bodla Group and international pickleball organizations.
Mikaeel’s achievements in pickleball highlight his potential as an ambassador for the sport in Pakistan, showcasing the benefits of embracing diverse athletic experiences.
News in Brief: Mikaeel Ali Baig’s Historic Victory
Mikaeel Ali Baig, a 15-year-old tennis star from Pakistan, has won the Pickleball Pro Junior Championship in Daytona, Florida, competing against over 1,200 players. His victory earned him a 5 DUPR rating, ranking him among the top 20 under-18 players globally. Mikaeel aims to promote pickleball in Pakistan and plans to meet with the Pakistan Tennis Federation’s president to discuss expanding the sport.
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