Dimapur Pickleball Open Winners and Highlights: The Dimapur Pickleball Open, organised by the Nagaland Pickleball Association (NPA), concluded on September 21 at The Fitness House, Dimapur. The two-day event, held on September 20–21, drew 110 players from Nagaland and Assam across men’s singles, men’s doubles, and mixed doubles. Winners in each category received part of the total prize pool of Rs 1,00,000.
Key Winners and Results
In mixed doubles, Rajat Sarda and Anangsha Alomyan claimed the title, defeating Imsumeren Lonchar and Lentina Longkumer. In men’s singles, Vilasier Khate emerged champion, beating Zhaputso Khate in the final. Tonoto Ayemi and David Murry lifted the men’s doubles trophy, defeating Nzamo Kikon and Imsuren Longchar.
Event Highlights and Participation
The Dimapur Pickleball Open attracted players not only from Dimapur but also nearby districts, including Assam. The tournament featured 23 men’s singles players, 22 men’s doubles teams, and 10 mixed doubles teams. Matches were competitive, showcasing the growing popularity of pickleball in the region.
Statements from Officials
Suryaveer Singh Bhullar, president of the Indian Pickleball Association (IPA), praised the Northeast’s potential, calling it home to natural athletes who can excel in the sport. He highlighted pickleball as affordable, with low court costs and rackets starting from Rs 500, and said it could become India’s second-most popular sport after cricket.
Nathan Zeliang, president of NPA, shared the association’s roadmap, focusing on grassroots development through school clinics, inter-school and inter-college matches, and distribution of starter kits. He also emphasized coaching certification, referee pathways, a state ranking system, club formation, and improved court facilities. Zeliang announced the next event, the Niathu Pickleball Open, scheduled for October 10–11.
Nazneen Rahman, North East Development Officer of IPA and secretary of Assam Pickleball Association, praised NPA’s efforts, saying Nagaland has set a benchmark for the Northeast and other states. NPA vice president Kakivi Chishi and general secretary Nisuka Khulu also highlighted pickleball’s growing appeal and the tournament’s success.
Significance for Pickleball in Nagaland
The Dimapur Pickleball Open demonstrated Nagaland’s potential in India’s fastest-growing sport. By providing competitive exposure, prize incentives, and structured development plans, the NPA aims to build a safe, inclusive, and professional pickleball ecosystem in the state. Future events like the Niathu Pickleball Open will continue to strengthen the sport locally.
News in Brief: Dimapur Pickleball Open Winners and Highlights
The Dimapur Pickleball Open, held at The Fitness House, Dimapur, concluded on September 21 with strong participation from Nagaland and Assam. Vilasier Khate, Rajat Sarda–Anangsha Alomyan, and Tonoto Ayemi–David Murry were among the champions. The event, organised by NPA and affiliated with IPA, offered Rs 1,00,000 in prize money.