What’s the Score?
Mumbai, India – The GlobalSpa Picklefest PWR 400 at Otters Club offered a stunning cross-section of Indian pickleball talent this week. Over two days of competition, the event showcased the sport’s generational span, with teenage prodigies claiming titles on Day 1 and seasoned veterans dominating on Day 2. The tournament was highlighted by the teenage team of Ammol Ramchandani and Stavya Bhasin winning the men’s doubles, and veteran Bhushan Akut securing a remarkable “double crown” in the senior categories.
Hit it deeper!
Day 1 belonged to the youth. In the men’s doubles final, 18-year-old Ammol Ramchandani and 17-year-old Stavya Bhasin faced a stern test against Maitreya Bhagat and Anay Patil. The match was a thriller, with the teenagers displaying composure beyond their years to edge out a 16–14 victory. The women’s doubles also saw a gritty performance from the Amalsadiwala sisters, Pearl and Naomi, who fought off a challenge from Estephany Tan and Sally Otieno to win 16-14. The future of the sport looked bright in the Under-14 category, where Yanniv Sainaani and Nirvair Bhan dominated their final with a decisive 15-4 win.
Day 2 saw experience take center stage. Bhushan Akut was the star of the day, showcasing tactical brilliance to win two titles. First, he partnered with Ahmed Jaffer to win the 50+ gender-neutral doubles (15-11), and then he returned to the court with Ashok Rohira to claim the 60+ title (15-11). In the 35+ women’s doubles, Sindoor Mittal and Shraddha Damani used their experience to dismantle their opponents 15-6. The mixed doubles pro category provided a fitting climax, with Estephany Tan and Rohin Rajani earning a hard-fought 15-12 victory over Divyanshu Kataria and Pearl Amalsadiwala.
The World Pickleball Verdict
The Mumbai Picklefest illustrates the unique ecosystem of Indian pickleball, where teenagers and sexagenarians share the spotlight with equal intensity. The victory of Ramchandani and Bhasin is particularly significant; it signals that the next generation is not just participating but taking over the elite levels. However, Bhushan Akut’s double victory proves that tactical knowledge and “court craft” can still trump youthful athleticism in doubles pickleball. This blend of demographics is healthy for the sport’s growth, ensuring it remains accessible while the competitive ceiling continues to rise.
Chris Beaumont is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of World Pickleball Magazine. Chris follows the global game closely, reporting on the latest news, developments, stories and tournaments from all five continents. He also hosts the World Pickleball Podcast, interviewing people at all levels of pickleball. Chris is also an avid player, currently struggling to make the breakthrough from 4.0 to 4.5.