Friday, October 24, 2025

Meet Yaan: The 5-Year-Old Making History in India’s Pickleball Arena

Yaan U12 Pickleball History India: At just five years old, Yaan made history by competing in the Boys’ U12 category at the PWR 100 event during the Tamil Nadu State Level Championship at Picklers Arena in Chennai. Facing players nearly twice his age, he earned two points, one against Mahatheesh and another against Suhaan Golecha.

A Family Spark

Yaan’s journey began at home with his father, Ganaa, who inspired him to pick up the sport. Ganaa said, “It has just been a month I think. He just saw when we were playing, and he is very much interested. He is interested and he wanted to play. We did not have under 6 or under 10 category at this tournament. So, we put him in under 12. Luckily he got points also with 11 and 12 years old, so, we are very glad.”

Yaan’s mother, Saranya, emphasized joy over competition. She said, “His father plays this sport. So, he is very much inspired seeing his father. So, he wanted to play like him now. Like father, like son Yaan is into this tournament. He wanted to participate in the tournament. So, we thought, we should allow him to play. He is very much happy playing this. We are very much happy seeing him play. That is it.” She added, “We do not believe in competition. So, we just love him being happy and fun and all that. We just love him being happy and fun.”

On-Court Performance

Despite his young age, Yaan showed natural skill. His small hands swung the paddle with surprising precision, and his quick feet demonstrated instinctive play. Spectators cheered when he scored his first point, highlighting the excitement of seeing a five-year-old compete against older, experienced players.

Making History in Indian Pickleball

While Yaan did not win the matches, his participation earned admiration for his courage and talent. He has become a symbol of early passion for pickleball in India and is expected to inspire other young children to take up the sport. His presence at the PWR 100 event marks a milestone in Indian pickleball history.

News in Brief: Yaan U12 Pickleball History India

Five-year-old Yaan made history as India’s youngest pickleball player at the Tamil Nadu State Level Championship in Chennai. Competing in the Boys’ U12 category, he earned points against older players. Inspired by his father, Ganaa, and encouraged by his mother, Saranya, Yaan’s debut captured attention and admiration nationwide.

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