Bhatia Tops India Rankings, Waters Wins Triple Crown in Atlanta
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Armaan Bhatia Leads as Pickleball 'Sweeps Across India,' Top 20 Revealed Setting Global Stage
Delhi, India – Pickleball is rapidly gaining popularity, described as "sweeping across India". Leading the charge are 20 exceptional players who represent the country's finest talent. Armaan Bhatia has been revealed as India's No. 1 pickleball player, topping the latest rankings. He leads the Men's Singles rankings with 6,171 points, followed by Aditya Ruhela in second (5,874 points) and Sameer Varma in third (5,785 points).
These top players, including Bhatia, Ruhela, and Varma, are not only dominating domestic events but have also "made a mark globally," putting India "firmly on the international pickleball map". They consistently demonstrate ability, endurance, and strategic acumen in national and international competitions. Their dedication to training, versatility across formats, and role in popularizing the sport at grassroots levels set them apart. As pickleball continues to grow in India, these athletes are seen as motivating a new generation.
Cincinnati Shake-Up! Haworth, Fudge, Howells Claim Top Spots in APP Rankings After Vlasic Classic Thriller
Cincinnati, USA – The 2025 APP Vlasic Classic Cincinnati played a major role in shaping the latest APP player standings, causing a significant shake-up across professional rankings. In APP Pro Men’s Singles, Chris Haworth remained the top player with 6,840 points, his lead demonstrating consistency at the top level.
The tournament was particularly impactful for Megan Fudge, who dominates the APP Pro Women’s Singles rankings, leading with 4,200 points. Fudge also holds the top spot in APP Pro Women’s Doubles with 6,360 points, showcasing her strong performance in multiple categories.
Rounding out the top ranks, Will Howells claimed the number one position in APP Pro Men’s Mixed Doubles after the event, leading with 6,420 points. Howells also took the top spot in APP Pro Men's Doubles, securing 6,540 points, though the race for number one in men's doubles is described as tight. These updated standings reflect player performance throughout the season and set the stage for future competitive matchups.
Waters Dominates Atlanta PPA: 34th Triple Crown Secured Amidst 'Breakup Showdown' & Rise of the Two-Handed Backhand
Atlanta, USA – The Veolia Atlanta Pickleball Championships on the PPA Tour delivered intense competition and significant storylines. Anna Leigh Waters was in pursuit of a triple crown, a feat she successfully achieved. She won women's doubles with partner Anna Bright, women's singles against Kate Fahey, and mixed doubles alongside Ben Johns. This marks Waters' 34th career PPA Triple Crown.
A highly anticipated "breakup showdown" unfolded in the women's doubles final, pitting the new team of Waters and Bright against the resulting partnership of Catherine Parenteau and Rachel Rohrabacher. Waters and Bright secured a comfortable win, showcasing their strategic versatility.
Ben Johns also sought a triple crown, winning his singles match but falling short in the men's doubles final. The tournament also highlighted the growing prevalence of the two-handed backhand ("twoey") among pros, becoming an "indispensable shot". Men's singles continued to be unpredictable, with only nine of the top 16 seeds reaching the round of 16.
Skechers Malaysia Tournament Draws 900+ Players, International Field Highlights Growth Despite Social Media Prayer Controversy
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – The Skechers Malaysia Tournament, now in its third edition in 2025, successfully attracted a massive field of over 900 players. Competitors from Malaysia and 13 other countries converged to vie for a prize pool worth RM80,000. Skechers' aim with the event is to "elevate the game" and offer local players international tournament experience in Malaysia, where pickleball is recognized as the "fastest growing sport".
Held at the spacious PickleDepot facility, described as feeling both spacious and electric despite the large crowd, the tournament atmosphere was generally positive. However, the event faced a social media issue when a competitor respectfully inquired about time allocation for Friday prayers. The response from an organizer was perceived as lacking empathy, leading to public discussion. Skechers later acknowledged the issue, stating that precautions would be taken in future planning to ensure this is included. Despite this issue, the event largely celebrated the joy of pickleball.