Gavaskars Join the Pickleball Action, Co-Own Dilli Dillwale in WPBL
The inaugural season of the World Pickleball League (WPBL) has gained significant traction with the announcement that Indian cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar and his son Rohan Gavaskar have become co-owners of the Dilli Dillwale team. This partnership brings the Gavaskar family's immense experience and popularity to the league, further elevating its profile and highlighting pickleball's growing appeal. The WPBL, which kicked off with a match between Mumbai Pickle Power and Pune United, is a domestic pickleball tournament featuring six franchises, all vying for the championship title.
Sunil Gavaskar shared his enthusiasm for being a part of the WPBL, stating that he was thrilled to join the league with the Dilli Dillwale team, which he believes embodies the spirit of resilience, teamwork, and global unity. Ankiti Bose, Founding Partner at Terra-Invest and Team Owner of Dilli Dillwale, expressed her excitement about the Gavaskars joining her team, adding that their presence would add incredible value, vision and sports legacy. The league is co-founded by former tennis players Gaurav Natekar and Arati Ponnappa Natekar. This announcement marks a significant step in elevating pickleball's profile in India and attracting a broader audience to the sport.
Bollywood Stars Rakul Preet Singh and Jackky Bhagnani Invest in Hyderabad Superstars
The World Pickleball League (WPBL) made further headlines with the entry of Bollywood actors Rakul Preet Singh and Jackky Bhagnani as co-owners of the Hyderabad Superstars team. This investment highlights the growing popularity of pickleball and the league's ability to attract diverse stakeholders from the entertainment and sports industries. The couple shared their excitement about venturing into the world of pickleball, emphasizing the sport's appeal across all age groups.
Rakul Preet Singh expressed her belief that the Hyderabad Superstars would further inspire players from the city and across the country to strive for excellence. Jackky Bhagnani also shared his enthusiasm, noting pickleball's popularity across generations. The team will be coached by Jonny Andrews, also known as 'Jonny Pickleball,' and features a mix of Indian and international players, including Kuldip Mahajan, Max Freeman, and Ava Cavataio. KLO Sports, co-owned by Sanjay Jupudi and Srinath Chittoori, acquired the Hyderabad franchise for the WPBL and welcomed the celebrity duo to their team.
Mumbai vs Pune: Rivalry Ignites as World Pickleball League Opens in Grand Style
The inaugural World Pickleball League (WPBL) is set to launch with a highly anticipated Maharashtra derby as Mumbai Pickle Power faces off against Pune United at the Cricket Club of India. This opening match is not just a clash of two teams, but a battle of regional pride, promising to ignite the court with intense competition and fierce rivalry. As the first match of the WPBL, all eyes will be on these two teams as they set the tone for the entire tournament.
Mumbai Pickle Power, coached by the young tactician Sam Basford, boasts a roster blending youth and experience, including Indian pickleball captain Mayur Patil. With a decorated history, Patil will be a key player for the Mumbai side as they aim for a strong start. The team’s international contingent, featuring players from South Korea and Poland, will be expected to bring an added edge to their performance. On the other side, Pune United will be looking to challenge their rivals, eager to make a statement in this inaugural match. The WPBL follows a round-robin format, with each match including five games: men’s and women’s singles, men’s and women’s doubles, and mixed doubles. This opening match between Mumbai and Pune is sure to be an exciting start to the new league and a spectacle that fans won't want to miss.
Chennai Super Champs Begin WPBL Campaign Against Bengaluru Jawans
The Chennai Super Champs are set to kick off their journey in the World Pickleball League (WPBL) with a highly anticipated match against the Bengaluru Jawans, marking a key moment in the league's inaugural season. This clash between two strong southern teams promises to be an exciting display of skill and strategy as the WPBL's opening week continues. The Chennai squad, led by world-renowned coach Joey Farias, is eager to make an early statement and showcase their talent on the global pickleball stage.
The Super Champs boast a diverse roster, blending international stars with Indian talent, including explosive players like Edward Perez and Tanner Tomassi from the USA, tactical players Sarah Jane Lim and Anna Clarice Patrimonio from the Philippines, as well as other players from Canada, the UK and Australia. Indian star Sonu Kumar Vishwakarma rounds out the team, ready to make his mark. The Bengaluru Jawans, however, will pose a tough challenge, aiming to start their campaign with a victory over their rivals. With fixtures lined up in quick succession, every point will be crucial for both sides as they navigate this inaugural WPBL tournament.
WPBL Promises High-Octane Action With Music, Comedy, and Top Pickleball Talent
And, of course, the World Pickleball League (WPBL) is not just about sports; it's a full-fledged entertainment spectacle, blending high-stakes pickleball with music, comedy, and cultural events. The league's inaugural season promises a unique experience for fans, creating an atmosphere beyond the typical sports arena. With matches already underway, the WPBL aims to draw in new audiences by making each event a festival of sport and entertainment.
The league's co-founder, Gaurav Natekar, has emphasized that the vision for the WPBL includes providing an exciting experience for all attendees. In addition to the top-tier pickleball action, there will be entertainment, including music, cultural performances, mentalists, and comedians. The WPBL is designed to appeal to both hardcore sports fans and those new to pickleball, with the aim of popularizing the sport and building a strong community around it. The league's commitment to entertainment, coupled with world-class athletic talent, is set to make it a major draw for fans in India and beyond.
Bennett University Courts Spark 'Feels Like USA' Buzz as Gujarat Picklers Dominate Day One, Dev-Purvansh Clinch U18 Title at 4th IPA Pickleball Nationals
The 4th IPA Pickleball Nationals at Bennett University in Greater Noida have become a hotbed of exciting pickleball action and impressive displays of talent. The tournament, which began on January 23, has garnered attention not only for its intense competition but also for the exceptional facilities at Bennett University. The courts have been praised by players, with Dev Shah comparing the windy, open conditions to those in the USA. This comparison has sparked a buzz around the tournament, enhancing the experience for players and spectators alike.
Gujarat emerged as a dominant force on the opening day of the Nationals, with multiple teams from the state securing top positions in various categories. The Gujarat women's team won the Open Team Event, and the state also secured the U-14 boys team title. Additionally, Gujarat's U16 boys' team also dominated their category, showcasing the state's depth of pickleball talent. On day two, Dev Shah and Purvansh Patel clinched the Boys' U-18 doubles title, defeating the Rajasthani duo of Vansh Ruhela and Harsh, solidifying Gujarat's strong presence at the tournament. The pair lauded the excellent courts and facilities at Bennett University after their victory. The Indian Pickleball Association (IPA) is the official governing body for pickleball in India and is dedicated to promoting and developing the sport across the country. The 4th IPA Nationals are being held from January 23-26.
Pickleball Mania: Indian Courts Surge by 159% in a Year as Sport's Popularity Explodes
Pickleball is experiencing an unprecedented surge in popularity across India, with the number of courts increasing by an astounding 159% in the last year. This rapid growth underscores the sport’s increasing appeal and accessibility, making it one of the fastest-growing sports in the country. The rise in pickleball is not limited to major metropolitan areas, as courts are now springing up in smaller cities as well. This expanding infrastructure is a key factor driving the sport's popularity among all age groups.
The Indian Pickleball Association (IPA), the official governing body for the sport, is working to further promote pickleball at the grassroots levels and in schools, aiming to take the sport to the next level. The recent 4th IPA Pickleball Nationals at Bennett University showcased the enthusiasm for the sport, with players like Dev Shah noting the high quality of the courts and comparing them to those in the USA. Bennett University was applauded for its world-class facilities, which include 14 pickleball courts. The university's commitment to sports development has also been highlighted as contributing to the growth of pickleball in India. With more people picking up a paddle and joining in, pickleball is quickly becoming a favourite pastime in India.
Proton Sports Buys AZ Drive MLP Team in $10 Million Deal, Signaling Pickleball's Investment Boom
Major League Pickleball (MLP) has announced a significant ownership change, with Proton Sports acquiring a controlling stake in the AZ Drive team for over $10 million. This deal highlights the growing financial interest in professional pickleball and demonstrates the sport’s escalating market value. The investment group, which includes Charles Darling and Tim Fyke of Proton Sports, along with former NFL quarterback Jake Plummer and financial professional Jeff Tsao, joins existing owners such as Larry Fitzgerald, Oz Pearlman, Magnus Carlson, and Doug Hirsch. This move signifies the expanding presence of brands in MLP, following similar investments by Anheuser-Busch with the Atlanta Bouncers and Lotto with the Brooklyn Aces.
Proton Sports, a Scottsdale, Ariz.-based company specializing in pickleball paddles and other equipment, is investing at all levels of the sport, from MLP team ownership to partnerships with the United Pickleball Association (UPA). This acquisition comes as the pickleball industry is projected to reach $7.9 billion by 2033, according to a recent report. The sale of the AZ Drive team at such a high valuation illustrates the confidence investors have in the future growth of the sport, both in North America and globally. The MLP, which generated $50 million in revenue in 2024, features over 100 professional players across 22 franchises, and more than 75 celebrities are part of team ownership groups. The league's first event of the season will be held in Orlando in April.
Celebrities Flock to Pickleball: Over 75 Own Teams in Major League Pickleball
Major League Pickleball (MLP) is attracting a significant number of celebrity investors, with over 75 stars from sports, entertainment, and business now owning teams in the league. This influx of celebrity involvement underscores the sport's growing popularity and commercial appeal. The league, which features more than 100 professional players across 22 franchises, is experiencing a surge in interest from diverse stakeholders.
The recent acquisition of the AZ Drive team by Proton Sports for over $10 million further highlights the financial investment in the sport, with investors like former NFL quarterback Jake Plummer joining the ownership group. This trend of celebrity and brand investment is not isolated, as other companies such as Anheuser-Busch (Atlanta Bouncers) and Lotto (Brooklyn Aces) have also partnered with MLP teams. The involvement of high-profile individuals and major brands boosts the visibility of the sport and contributes to its rapid expansion. MLP generated $50 million in revenue in 2024, and the growing interest from celebrities and corporations suggests that this number will continue to increase. The league's structure, which includes a series of tournaments and a two-week playoff event, provides a compelling platform for brands and celebrities to engage with a rapidly growing fanbase.
Pickleball Industry to Smash $7.9 Billion Valuation by 2033, Experts Predict
The global pickleball market is poised for explosive growth, with a new report projecting its value to reach a staggering $7.9 billion by 2033, up from $1.9 billion in 2023. This represents a 15.3% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) over the next decade, positioning pickleball as one of the fastest-growing sectors in the sports industry. This surge is driven by increased demand for equipment, court construction, and the growth of tournaments and training programs.
Equipment sales, including paddles, balls, and apparel, are leading the market, accounting for 41.5% of total revenue in 2023. The rise of online sales is also significant, with 55.8% of pickleball purchases happening online. While North America currently dominates the market with a 42.9% share, global growth is on the horizon, with interest surging in Europe, Australia, Asia-Pacific, and Latin America.
MLP 2025: Roster Shakeup Looms as Teams Navigate New Player Rules, Tough Decisions Ahead
Major League Pickleball (MLP) teams are facing significant roster changes for the 2025 season due to new league rules and player contracts. With the deadline to submit keeper/drop decisions approaching, teams are scrambling to make crucial choices about which players to retain and which to let go. The introduction of the UPA (United Pickleball Association) exclusivity rule is forcing teams to drop players not signed with UPA, regardless of their performance. This has created a challenging environment for team managers, as they must now balance player talent with contractual obligations.
The financial implications are also significant. Teams must pay half of a player's 2024 draft points to keep them, adding another layer of complexity. For example, retaining a high-profile player like Ben Johns would cost the Carolina Pickleball Club $420,000. As a result, teams are strategizing over whether to keep top-tier talent or seek value in the free-agency draft. Some teams, like the Chicago Slice and Miami Pickleball Club, face a complete roster overhaul, with no UPA-signed players eligible to be kept. This all means major shakeups are coming. The upcoming waiver period will be critical, with teams vying for top talent in a market that prioritizes elite women and left-side players. Some teams are likely to trade players for cash and draft picks to secure the talent they need.
APP Tour and CBS Sports Team Up for National TV Broadcasts in 2025
The Association of Pickleball Players (APP) and CBS Sports have announced their broadcast schedule for the first three APP Tour events of 2025, bringing professional pickleball action to a national audience. The partnership will provide a total of 12 hours of linear television coverage, showcasing championship matches from the season-opening Humana APP Fort Lauderdale Open, the APP Vlasic Classic in Daytona Beach, and the APP Sacramento Open. This is the fifth year of the APP and CBS Sports partnership.
The broadcasts will be aired on CBS Sports Network and will feature the most competitive and thrilling matches in pickleball. The Humana APP Fort Lauderdale Open coverage will air on January 27, 28, 31, and February 2. The APP Vlasic Classic coverage is scheduled for February 14, 16, and 17. The APP Sacramento Open will be broadcast on March 3, 6, and 11. All times are in Eastern Time. In addition to the linear television broadcasts, APP Tour events will also be available through hundreds of hours of coverage on livestream platforms, including APPTV on YouTube.
The APP has also announced its full nationally televised tournament overview for 2025, boasting more than 55 hours of linear broadcast coverage over 14 tournaments. The 2025 APP Tour season began with the Humana APP Fort Lauderdale Open, held January 15-19 at The Fort, the APP’s new global headquarters in South Florida. The Fort has 43 courts and the world’s first pickleball stadium.
Pickleball Fever Grips Andover: First Tournament a Smash Hit
Pickleball has rapidly become the fastest-growing participation sport in Andover, with the town's first-ever tournament at the Andover Leisure Centre deemed a "smash hit". The event, organized by coach Gary Kemp, drew 32 players for a mixed doubles competition. The sport’s popularity has exploded in the area in just one year, growing from five players to over 65 members.
The local pickleball group now utilizes proper pickleball nets, paddles, and balls thanks to a collaboration with the Andover Leisure Centre. The group now has sessions twice a week, filling up eight courts with up to 40 players on Thursday afternoons. Several players now compete in regional tournaments. The group has also created its own branded clothing line called "Dink And-over," reflecting the sense of community.
One player, George Bacon, highlighted the camaraderie, mutual support, and humour that the sport provides. The tournament saw players arriving as early as 8:45 am on a Sunday to compete, underscoring the dedication and enthusiasm for the game. The club is also preparing for its first match against a rival club in Salisbury. Coach Gary Kemp is completing his Level 2 coaching qualification, and there are plans for more events throughout the year.
Celebrity Pickleball Bash Set to Heat Up the Bay Area
And finally, a celebrity pickleball bash is coming to the Bay Area, with Sacramento legend Urijah Faber headlining the DoorDash Celebrity Pickleball Bash at San Francisco’s Warfield Theatre on February 15-16. This event highlights the growing trend of celebrities embracing pickleball, further underscoring the sport's increasing popularity and mainstream appeal.