Swiggy Bets Big on Pickleball: Swiggy has officially taken ownership of Team Mumbai in the first World Pickleball League (WPBL), India’s premier franchise-based pickleball league. The Mumbai franchise marks the second team announced by WPBL, following the Chennai franchise, which is owned by Bollywood actor Samantha Ruth Prabhu. The first season of WPBL is set to begin on January 24, 2025, and will run until February 2, 2025.
Swiggy’s Role in the Growing Pickleball Landscape
Pickleball, recognized as one of the fastest-growing sports globally, has become increasingly popular in India as a recreational and competitive activity. Swiggy’s involvement in the WPBL aligns with its strategy to connect with customers through new, innovative platforms and trends.
The company’s Mumbai team will have the unique opportunity to show its talents in front of a home crowd, as the first season is set to take place in Mumbai.
Swiggy’s entry into the WPBL reflects its dedication to supporting recreational activities and contributing to the expansion of pickleball’s popularity in India. As a well-known brand, Swiggy aims to further engage communities through this dynamic partnership.
Words from Key Figures
Rohit Kapoor, CEO of Swiggy Food Marketplace, expressed his excitement about the partnership:
“When we started discussing pickleball internally and our association with it, my joke was achar bina khaana kya! Look, it’s a fun, easy game to play for most people. And I can see food stalls, a happy game and the whole family there for a great weekend. We fit right into this scenario and deliver joy to folks, as per usual. This partnership with WPBL and Mumbai is Swiggy being part of what makes the city and indeed the world go round. Which is our way.” – (Rohit Kapoor)
Gaurav Natekar, co-founder and CEO of WPBL, echoed Kapoor’s enthusiasm:
“We strongly believe that the World Pickleball League can become one of India’s best and most popular leagues in the next 3-5 years. Brands like Swiggy coming onboard as Team Owners for the World Pickleball League is a true testament to how the sport and the league is vibing with the masses. As one of India’s most-loved companies, Swiggy will add to the overall excitement and help us reach an even larger audience—not just for the league, but for the sport of Pickleball as well.” – (Gaurav Natekar)
Significance for the Sport in India
Swiggy’s investment in pickleball, particularly in the Mumbai franchise, shows the growing enthusiasm for the sport in India. The WPBL’s ambitious vision to establish pickleball as one of the country’s top sports over the next few years is supported by the involvement of leading brands like Swiggy.
With significant celebrity backing and a rapidly expanding fanbase, the WPBL is set to elevate pickleball’s visibility, helping it gain wider recognition in India and globally.
News in Brief: Swiggy Bets Big on Pickleball
Swiggy has acquired Team Mumbai in the World Pickleball League (WPBL), marking its official entry into India’s growing pickleball scene. The first season of WPBL will take place from January 24 to February 2, 2025 in Mumbai.
Swiggy’s involvement in the league is a strategic move to align with the fast-growing recreational trend of pickleball and engage with communities in innovative ways. The Mumbai team is the second franchise announced after Chennai, owned by actor Samantha Ruth Prabhu.
ALSO READ: World Pickleball League: Samantha Ruth Prabhu’s Game-Changing Vision for Women