Mumbai Mumbai: Pickleball, a fast-growing paddle sport that blends the thrill of tennis, badminton and table tennis, is taking the global sporting world by storm. Its rapid rise in popularity is due to its accessibility, short match duration and appeal to players and fans of all ages. Recognising the potential of this emerging sport, India is set to host the inaugural season of the World Pickleball League (WPBL) in Mumbai from January 24 to February 2, 2025.
The WPBL is India’s first professional pickleball league, gathering six competing franchises to create a platform to elevate the status of the sport in the country. The league was founded by Natekar Sports & Gaming (NSG) in partnership with Sony Entertainment Talent Ventures India, a joint venture between Sony Music and Sony Pictures.
With its eyes set on expansion across Asia, Europe and the Middle East, the WPBL promises to turn pickleball into a global phenomenon, beginning with India. The league has great franchises like Pune United, who are led with a very strong vision and guided by some of the most influential people in entertainment, education and industry. The leaders for Pune United include Dr. Ajinkya DY Patil and Pooja Patil, who come to the team with unmatched expertise in education, community building and innovation. Dr. Ajinkya DY Patil, Chairman of Ajinkya DY Patil University, has long been recognised as a leader in academic excellence, research and development.
His institution, part of the prestigious DY Patil Group, has consistently fostered talent and innovation, a vision he is now extending to the sports world through Pune United. Sharing his perspective on the initiative, Dr. Ajinkya DY Patil said, “Pickleball represents the evolution of sports for the modern generation. It is fast, inclusive and connects communities. Through Pune United and WPBL, we are committed to nurturing grassroots talent and creating a platform that empowers athletes to shine on the global stage.”
