Indian Open Pickleball League 2025: The Indian Open and Global Sports Pro and Challenger League 2025 will take place from February 3rd to 9th, 2025, in Mumbai at Nesco, Goregaon. The event, which is Asia’s largest pickleball tournament, has announced its lineup of ten city-based teams and is set to be a major milestone in India’s sports calendar.
Teams and Their Owners
The tournament, led by Hemal Jain and partners Shashank Khaitan and Yuvraj Ruia, will feature ten teams from cities across India. Each team is owned by influential stakeholders from various industries, bringing their vision to the league. Bollywood star Karan Johar is the brand ambassador for the event, helping bring attention to pickleball in India.
The teams include:
- Mumbai Chhatrapati Warriors, owned by Janhvi Kapoor and Josh Majumdar.
- Ahmedabad Olympians, with owners Anmol Patel and Aditya Gandhi.
- Bengaluru Blazers, led by Amrita Deora.
- Chennai Cool Cats, owned by Anshuman Ruia, Radhika Ruia, and Yudi Ruia.
- Delhi Snipers, with Jai Gandhi, Krish, and Karyna Bajaj.
- Goa Gladiators, owned by Samrat Javeri, Atul Rawat, Rajesh Advani, and Sachin Bhansali.
- Hyderabad Vikings, represented by Akshay Reddy.
- Jaipur Jawans, with Luv Ranjan and Anubhav Singh Bassi as owners.
- Kolkatta Kings, led by Varun Vora and Rohan Khemka.
- Nashik Ninjas, owned by Karishma Thakker.
What’s At Stake?
The Indian Open Pickleball League offers a prize pool of $125,000 and is expected to attract over 1,800 players. These players will compete on more than 25 courts across different categories.
The tournament will include professional and amateur leagues, offering a platform for young talent to rise. The event is part of a broader effort to make pickleball a mainstream sport in India.
Key Insights From the Organizers
Hemal Jain shared his vision for the league: “Our goal is to elevate pickleball to unprecedented heights in India and beyond.” Shashank Khaitan added that the league aims to inspire youth and bring more attention to the sport in India.
Globalsports, founded in 2021, has been instrumental in developing India’s pickleball ecosystem. They have built over 40 courts in Mumbai and are expanding their reach with national and international plans.
Karan Johar also expressed his excitement, saying, “Pickleball is a game of inclusion, fun, and passion.” He feels honored to promote the sport in India.
Future of Pickleball in India
The success of the Indian Open Pickleball League could mark a turning point for the sport in India. As more people are introduced to pickleball through this tournament, the sport’s popularity is expected to grow.
With high-profile backers, large investments, and a passionate community, pickleball may soon become a staple in Indian sports.
News in Brief: Indian Open Pickleball League 2025
The Indian Open Pickleball League 2025, Asia’s largest pickleball tournament, will feature ten teams from cities across India. Set to take place in Mumbai from February 3rd to 9th, the event promises to boost pickleball’s profile in India with a $125,000 prize pool and over 1,800 players.
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