Pickleball’s Expansion in India: Pickleball is rising in India, with participation skyrocketing by 300% in the past three years. The number of courts has grown 10 to 12 times nationwide, making the sport increasingly accessible across metropolitan cities and smaller towns.
With its simple rules, short game duration, and inclusivity, pickleball is attracting a diverse demographic—from children and teenagers to middle-aged players and retirees. Experts believe it could soon surpass badminton as India’s second-most played sport after cricket.
Affordable Equipment Fuels Growth
The pickleball equipment market is expanding rapidly, with over 100 pickleball paddle brands emerging in the past year. This competition has led to a major price drop, with paddles that once cost ₹15,000 now available for ₹2,000 to ₹4,000. Increased affordability is further accelerating the sport’s adoption.
From a Backyard Game to a Global Phenomenon
Pickleball was invented in the U.S. in the 1960s but only gained mainstream popularity after the COVID-19 pandemic, fueled by celebrity endorsements and social media exposure.
In India, the sport has gained traction over the past 12 to 15 months, reaching 60,000 active players by the end of 2024—rising to nearly 100,000 when occasional players are included.
Infrastructure Growth and Demand for Courts
At the start of 2024, India had only 200 pickleball courts. That number has now surpassed 1,200, with three to four new courts opening weekly in major cities such as Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Delhi, Hyderabad, and Surat. The demand has even spread to smaller cities and Tier-4 towns like Sangli (Maharashtra) and Pathankot (Punjab).
Sports booking platforms like KheloMore have reported a six to sevenfold increase in court listings and a two to threefold rise in monthly bookings, with Mumbai, Bengaluru, Gujarat, and Pune leading in demand. Hyderabad, Kolkata, and Chennai are emerging as the next major markets.
Future of Pickleball in India
The All India Pickleball Association (AIPA) predicts that India could reach one million active players by 2028. Additionally, speculation is growing that pickleball may be included as an Olympic sport by 2036.
Globally, the sport now boasts five million players across 84 countries, solidifying its status as a rapidly growing international sport.
Business Opportunities and Market Expansion
Beyond its impact on sports participation, pickleball’s rise is creating significant business opportunities. The rapid expansion of equipment sales, apparel, accessories, and venue development signals a sustainable and profitable future for the sport in India.
With affordable equipment, growing infrastructure, and increasing media attention, pickleball is well-positioned to become one of India’s biggest sporting movements in the coming years.
News in Brief: Pickleball’s Expansion in India
Pickleball is witnessing rapid growth in India, with participation increasing 300% in three years. The number of courts has surged from 200 to over 1,200, and paddle prices have dropped from ₹15,000 to ₹2,000-₹4,000, making the sport more accessible. The All India Pickleball Association projects one million players by 2028, with a potential Olympic debut by 2036.
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