Eyeni Yanthan Sparks Pickleball Revolution: Eyeni Yanthan, a café owner from Dimapur, won the Mixed Doubles Final at the PWR 50 Kohima Open 2025 with her partner, Imtinok Pongener. The pair staged a comeback victory at the tournament in Kohima, marking a major moment for Nagaland’s fast-growing pickleball scene.
A Competitive Start and a Strong Finish
The victory did not come easily for the team. They lost the first game of the final before finding their rhythm. Reflecting on the match, Eyeni Yanthan said,
“I think firstly, it was quite competitive and us being also first timers playing in the tournament like this, we didn’t know what to expect. So I think during the finals, our final match, it was quite competitive. Our opponents played well. The first set, they won actually. So we thought that we might be losing the entire thing, but I think we gave our 100%. And then when we eventually won, it was great. Yeah, it was good.”
She credited the support of the fans for making the win even more special. “The people who came to support us all the way from Dimapur, our friends, the crowd was also amazing. The organisers did a great job putting this entire thing together. So it was great. We had a lot of fun,” she said.
Adjusting to the Opponents
Yanthan explained how she and her partner turned the match around. “I think at first we didn’t know what to expect of our opponents. So after we figured out their game the second time, I think it was easier. Maybe they even started losing a few points. That’s how we gained some confidence. And then, yeah, we tried not to miss any balls. At first, we were a little nervous going into the finals.”
The pair’s teamwork played a key role in their success. “Actually, we had a strategy, both of us. During the course of the match, I think the whole time we kept talking to each other. And then we played as an excellent team. It was great partnering with him also,” said Yanthan. “Our chemistry worked well.”
A Boost for Pickleball in Nagaland
The 32-year-old said the tournament was more than just a competition. “It was a really good experience. We always keep practising here in Dimapur, in Aiko Greens, the courts that we have here in Dimapur. Going all the way to Kohima to participate in this tournament, I thought it was a lovely weekend to get away from Dimapur and participate,” Yanthan shared.
She also appreciated the strong turnout at the event. “We didn’t expect much, but seeing the turnout and the people who showed up and cheered for us, it was terrific. I can’t wait for the next one. I’m sure it will be much bigger and better.”
Yanthan credited the Indian Pickleball Association (IPA) for supporting the sport. “I think one of them mentioned that, being the first one, they didn’t know what to expect of the players here. So even they were quite impressed with what we showcased yesterday, our skills and our gameplay. He mentioned that there would be more tournaments like this, possibly in Nagaland or even outside. So, yeah, we’re looking forward to those as well.”
Looking Ahead for the Sport
Yanthan believes Nagaland can soon become a hub for pickleball. “Why not? I think we started just three or four months back. Considering that in such a short amount of time we’ve come this far, I think we can go way further.”
She also highlighted areas of growth. “I think right now it’s becoming more of a social game. Maybe we can start drilling more, bringing in more experts to give us some workshops to improve our skills and similar training opportunities. To take it a little more seriously, rather than being like a recreational activity.”
Life Beyond the Court
Outside pickleball, Yanthan is an entrepreneur. “I run a business. I have a kids’ play area and cafe in Dimapur that I’ve been running for three years. It’s called Play Date. It’s both a cafe and a kids’ play area.”
She studied in Mumbai and worked in Gurgaon before returning to Dimapur. Sports have always been part of her routine. “I have been staying in Dimapur, Nagaland, for, I think, eight years now. Since I’ve been here, I’ve used sports as a way to relax when I’m not working. I used to play tennis before. Tennis is quite tiring and skilful, challenging to master. When pickleball was introduced to us, our group of friends, it became a very social thing. It was easy to play, fun, and a great way to spend time with friends. But now with the mention of tournaments, we all have to step up our game. It’s not just fun and games anymore; we can take it up to the next level as well.”
Teamwork with Partner Imtinok Pongener
Her partner, Imtinok Pongener, is preparing for competitive exams and also manages family construction work. Still, their understanding on court has been key. “We got acquainted with each other through mutual friends. We play volleyball and pickleball very regularly. His gameplay is very calm; he’s not very assertive, which is what I like about him. He likes to include me as a team, not overpowering, and that’s why we make a great team. Right now, he is preparing for competitive exams, but he also looks after some construction work with his family,” Yanthan explained.
She also hopes for stronger competition ahead. “We’re hoping that there will be much tougher competition in the future. We are hoping that there will be more women who will come up and keep practising, and then it will be a tougher competition later. It’s more fun to compete than.”
Her family has been supportive of her new sporting journey. “They’re very encouraging. They always ask me what’s happening, and they told me that for the next tournament, they will also come to watch and support.”
What This Means for Nagaland Pickleball
The Kohima Open win has placed Eyeni Yanthan and Imtinok Pongener among the rising stars of pickleball in Nagaland. Their victory highlights the rapid growth of the sport in the state. With more tournaments expected and greater participation from local players, pickleball could soon become one of Nagaland’s most exciting sports.
News in Brief: Eyeni Yanthan Sparks Pickleball Revolution
At the PWR 50 Kohima Open 2025, Eyeni Yanthan and partner Imtinok Pongener won the Mixed Doubles Final after a comeback. Yanthan, a café owner from Dimapur, credited teamwork, practice, and strong crowd support. Their victory marks a turning point for pickleball in Nagaland, signaling more tournaments and stronger competition ahead.
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