Mumbai
Arvind Ramesh Prabhoo, President of the All India Pickleball Association (AIPA), announced that India will host the World Pickleball Championship (WPC) for the first time from Nov 12-17 in Mumbai. This event marks a significant milestone for the sport, which is recognized as one of the fastest-growing games globally.
Prabhoo expressed pride in India’s opportunity to host such a prestigious championship on Sunday night, stating, “It is an honor for India to hold the World Pickleball Championship. Following this event, we will also host the World Pickleball League in January.” He emphasized the excitement surrounding the championship, noting that it would bring together the best pickleball talent from around the world, creating a thrilling experience for players and fans alike.
The WPC will feature approximately 650 players from six to seven countries, including Australia, Vietnam, Taiwan, Poland, and Singapore. Prabhoo acknowledged the grassroots work that AIPA has undertaken over the past 15 years, which has led to increased recognition of pickleball in India. “This recognition is a testament to our efforts to promote the sport at the grassroots level,” he said.
AIPA aims to continue popularizing pickleball in India, working to secure official recognition from the government and the Sports Authority of India. Under Prabhoo’s leadership, the association is focusing on talent development, offering training in skills, diet, physical endurance, and mental conditioning to emerging players.
