Pickleball World Rankings: In a groundbreaking move for the sport of pickleball, the GCC will be the inaugural host for the PWR World Series in March 2025. This major announcement comes as pickleball continues its meteoric rise in global popularity. The new Pickleball World Rankings (PWR), alongside the PWR World Series and PWR World Tour, are set to transform the landscape of the sport, thanks to Pickleball League Asia Private Limited and its partnership with The Times Group.
Kohli Highlights the Significance
Pranav Kohli, CEO and Founder of PWR, emphasized the significance of this moment.
“Pickleball originated from relatively humble beginnings in the backyards of America in the sixties, and has now become one of the most exciting sports enjoyed by millions around the world. It is with great honor to be part of the creation of Pickleball World Rankings, PWR World Series and PWR World Tour and we are delighted to be the team taking Pickleball to the next level both on and off the court.” – (Kohli)
Record Prize Money Announced
Kohli also revealed the financial stakes involved,
“We will be offering USD $15 Million in prize money for the PWR World Tour and USD $1.5 Million for the GCC stop in PWR World Series. This is the highest prize money ever offered in the sport! It is my hope that existing stars and the champions of the future from the United States and all around the world can rise through the rankings and reach their full potential, all in front of millions of followers globally.” – (Kohli)
GCC Chosen for Its Visionary Leadership
The decision to select the GCC as the venue for the inaugural series was no accident. Kohli praised the region’s progressive spirit.
“It is no coincidence that we selected the GCC as the location for this announcement and we are thrilled to confirm that our first PWR World Series – in grand style will be hosted in the region. The ambition and visionary leadership within the region and the positive pace of societal change is in step with the growth of the sport and we are confident that the sport will enjoy a bright future here.” – (Kohli)
The Times Group’s Role and Future Outlook
Vineet Jain, Managing Director of The Times Group, echoed these sentiments.
“The Times Group is proud to be an anchor investor in PWR, a path-breaking initiative that unifies the global pickleball community. Times Group is known for its innovation and its ability to be ahead of the curve in every one of its initiatives.We are happy that PWR is bringing the PWR Rankings, PWR tour and PWR World Series, and we really hope that this further accelerates growth of Pickleball globally. I personally believe that Pickleball will overtake Tennis in terms of participation in the near future. PWR is a platform that will empower players from every corner of the globe to compete, excel, and showcase their talents on an international stage.” – (Vineet Jain)
News in Brief: Pickleball World Rankings
In a significant development for pickleball, the GCC will host the inaugural PWR World Series in March 2025, marking a major milestone as the sport continues to surge in popularity. The Pickleball World Rankings (PWR), PWR World Series, and PWR World Tour, announced by Pickleball League Asia Private Limited and The Times Group, promise to elevate the sport’s global profile.
PWR CEO Pranav Kohli highlighted the historic nature of the event, with record-breaking prize money totaling $15 million for the World Tour and $1.5 million for the GCC series. The Times Group’s Vineet Jain praised the initiative, anticipating pickleball’s future dominance over tennis.
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