Pickleball’s Grand Slam Debut: The Pro & Challenger Pickleball League will return for its second season from December 16 to 23. Following the success of its inaugural edition in February, the league will again feature top players selected through an auction-based draft. Player registration for the auction opened on Tuesday.
Auction and Prize Pool
A total of 75 Pro and 75 Challenger players have been shortlisted, with the auction scheduled for July or August 2025. Each Pro team will have a purse of $62,500, while Challenger teams will receive $12,500. The draft will see 50 Pro and 50 Challenger players selected, forming five-player teams.
New Grand Slam Format
This season will introduce the Grand Slam of Pickleball, adding excitement to the competition. The format aims to elevate the sport’s status and attract greater attention in India.
Growing Popularity of Pickleball
Shashank Khaitan, a partner at Global Sports, emphasized the sport’s rapid rise in India.
“Pickleball is growing at an unprecedented pace in India, and with the Global Sports Pro & Challenger League coming back at the end of the year, we are creating a world-class platform for athletes to showcase their skills.” – (Shashank Khaitan)
“This league is not just about competition; it’s about building a thriving ecosystem for pickleball in the country and allowing Indian players to be recognized on a global stage.” – (Shashank Khaitan)
Future of the League
With its fast-paced gameplay and increasing recognition, pickleball continues to surge in India. The upcoming season promises to attract top players and fans, further solidifying the sport’s presence in the country.
News in Brief: Pickleball’s Grand Slam Debut
The Pro & Challenger Pickleball League will return for Season 2 from December 16 to 23. Players will be selected through an auction in July or August. The league introduces a new Grand Slam format, and prize pools remain significant. The event aims to expand pickleball’s reach in India.
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