The World Pickleball Championship (WPC), supported by the World Pickleball League (WPBL), is set to make its debut in India, bringing together more than 55 elite international athletes from 17 nations. Scheduled to take place at Mumbai’s iconic Cricket Club of India (CCI) from November 12 to 17, the event has already attracted over 400 participants and marks a significant milestone for Indian sports.
Fans across India will get to see top-tier players from countries like the United States, Japan, Thailand, and Canada vying for the esteemed WPC title. Among the notable international stars are Australia’s Danni Elle, George Wall, Nicole Shoeman, and Jason Taylor; Indonesia’s Ari Adleyaa and Dwi Mahendra; Thailand’s Poom and Max; Poland’s Bartosz and Karolina; and Korea’s Mihae and Eungkwon, as they compete at a level set to elevate the sport of pickleball in India and inspire a new generation.
For the first time, Indian audiences can watch live broadcasts of professional matches in the tournament’s quarterfinals, semifinals, and finals on Doordarshan, scheduled for November 15, 16, and 17. The event will feature categories like Men’s Singles, Women’s Singles, Mixed Doubles, Men’s Doubles, and Women’s Doubles, with participants ranging from under 14 to over 60 years.
Arvind Prabhoo, President of the All India Pickleball Association (AIPA), shared his excitement about the tournament, stating, “This year’s World Pickleball Championship is not just a tournament; it’s India’s entry into the global pickleball stage. Welcoming over 55 international athletes to Mumbai is an honour and a tremendous step in inspiring a new generation of Indian pickleball players. Our collaboration with Doordarshan ensures this historic event reaches fans nationwide, allowing them to experience the thrill of pickleball in real-time.”
