Vijay Kanneganti and Aarav Diwan won the Intermediate Men’s Doubles Final at the Pickleball Now Grand Prix in Bengaluru, edging past Nikhil Nandha Veeraraghavan and Ashwin Hanagudu in a nail-biting 15–14 finish on Saturday. The match came down to the last rally, with Vijay and Aarav holding their nerve to clinch the title.
Match Highlights
The final was evenly matched from the start. Both pairs traded points, with neither side able to pull away. At 10–10, the rallies grew longer, and the pressure was visible on both teams.
Nikhil Nandha Veeraraghavan and Ashwin Hanagudu impressed with their quick play at the net, but Vijay Kanneganti and Aarav Diwan stayed composed. Their steady returns and precise placements helped them match every challenge.
At 14–14, one rally decided the winner. Vijay and Aarav kept their focus and secured the decisive point to lift the trophy.
Players’ Reactions
After the match, the champions reflected on their experience.
Vijay Kanneganti said,
“It was just instinct. It was a great run. This was one of the most well organised tournaments.”
Aarav Diwan, who is new to pickleball, added,
“I’ve only started playing 3 months ago. This was the biggest tournament. Everything was amazing. Some of the games Vijay asked me to play aggressive.”
Vijay praised his partner’s performance, saying,
“Aarav really stepped up.”
Aarav shared more about his journey into the sport.
“I’ve been a football player. I fell in love with pickleball as soon as I picked it up.”
Vijay also explained his growing focus on the sport.
“I’ve stopped badminton and squash. It’s all pickleball now. I’ve played in the US as well, but I must say it’s picking up in India.”
Significance
The thrilling final showed how competitive the Intermediate Men’s Doubles category has become at the Pickleball Now Grand Prix. The victory highlighted the rising talent of players like Aarav, who are new to the game but making quick progress. It also reflected the sport’s rapid growth in India, with players shifting full-time focus to pickleball.
News in Brief: Vijay Kanneganti and Aarav Diwan
Vijay Kanneganti and Aarav Diwan defeated Nikhil Nandha Veeraraghavan and Ashwin Hanagudu 15–14 in a tense Intermediate Men’s Doubles Final at the Pickleball Now Grand Prix in Bengaluru. The win came down to the last rally, securing the title for Vijay and Aarav in one of the tournament’s closest matches.
ALSO READ: Jay Shah’s Masterclass: Unstoppable Run to 40+ Pickleball Glory at Mumbai Masters Cup