Karan Johar Partners with Global Sports: Global Sports, India’s leading sports management firm, is set to launch the Indian Open 2025. This highly anticipated event will take place from February 3rd to 9th, 2025, in Mumbai. Celebrated as Asia’s largest pickleball tournament, it promises to be an exciting showcase of talent and competition.
Star-Studded Leadership and Vision
Under the leadership of founder Hemal Jain and co-founders Niraj Jain, Divyesh Jain, and Suresh Bhansali, Global Sports has played a vital role in promoting pickleball in India. Recently, Bollywood writer and director Shashank Khaitan joined the team as a partner, along with Yuvi Ruia. Additionally, pop culture icon Karan Johar serves as the brand ambassador, emphasizing the sport’s cultural significance.
Talking about his association with Global Sports, Karan Johar said,
“Pickleball holds a special place in my heart because it’s not just about the sport—it’s about the connections it fosters and the joy it brings. When I first experienced pickleball with Global Sports,
I was struck by their passion and vision to make it a cultural phenomenon in India. Being part of this journey feels deeply personal, and I can’t wait to see how this incredible community continues to grow.”( Karan Johar)
Setting a New Benchmark in Pickleball
The Indian Open 2025 will feature over 1,800 players competing on more than 25 courts. With a prize pool of $125,000, it is set to be the largest pickleball event in Asia. The tournament will include professional and amateur leagues, giving emerging talents and seasoned players a chance to shine. Big names from the Indian Film Industry are also expected to invest in regional teams, further enhancing the event’s prestige.
Partner Shashank Khaitan added,
“Pickleball is a sport that combines strategy, athleticism, and camaraderie, and I am honored to be part of its growth in India. Through the Indian Open 2025, we aim to set a new benchmark for the sport and inspire more people to experience its magic.”(Shashank Khaitan)
A Legacy of Success
Global Sports has a legacy of successful pickleball events, including the Indian Open and Monsoon Pickleball Championship. The 2024 edition of the Indian Open attracted significant attention, featuring star appearances from Bollywood and sports icons like Karan Johar, Sania Mirza, and Varun Dhawan. These high-profile events have played a crucial role in increasing pickleball’s popularity across the country.
Founder Hemal Jain expressed pride in this growth, stating,
“Pickleball’s journey in India has been nothing short of extraordinary, and Global Sports is proud to lead this movement. Through our ecosystem of courts, coaching, and iconic tournaments, we’re not only fostering talent but also making the sport accessible and exciting for everyone.”(Founder Hemal Jain)
Since its inception in 2021, Global Sports has transformed pickleball in India. The organization currently operates over 40 courts in Mumbai and has plans for further expansion in cities like Ahmedabad, Nashik, Gurgaon, New Delhi, and Navi Mumbai. Jain’s vision for 2025 includes opening state-of-the-art pickleball courts across the country, solidifying Global Sports’ role as a pioneer in promoting pickleball as a lifestyle sport in India.
News in Brief: Karan Johar Partners with Global Sports
Global Sports will launch the Indian Open 2025 from February 3-9 in Mumbai, Asia’s largest pickleball tournament, featuring over 1,800 players and a $125,000 prize pool. With Bollywood figures like Karan Johar and Shashank Khaitan involved, the event aims to elevate pickleball’s popularity in India. Global Sports is committed to expanding pickleball access through new courts and coaching initiatives nationwide.