Set for some bounce? Indian Pickleball Nationals 2025 soon in Namma Bengaluru

Bengaluru: In a landmark moment for India’s sporting landscape, Bengaluru is gearing up to host the first-ever officially recognised Indian Pickleball Nationals 2025, marking a new era for one of the country’s fastest-growing sports.

The championship, titled Sabala Indian Pickleball Nationals 2025, will be held from November 13 to 16 at The Sports School, under the aegis of the Indian Pickleball Association (IPA) and organised by the Karnataka Pickleball Association (KPA).

The event gains special significance as it is the first nationals to be held since pickleball received official National Sports Federation (NSF) recognition from the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India — a milestone that elevates the sport’s stature and unlocks new opportunities for players nationwide.

With over 1,200 entries from more than 20 states, the nationals will feature competitions across men’s, women’s, and mixed categories, spanning age groups from under-12 to 70+ and multiple skill divisions.

“This national event is a milestone for the sport, and we are proud to host it here in Bengaluru,” said Shree Harsha, President of the Karnataka Pickleball Association.

“The Government of India’s recognition has given pickleball a new identity and direction. Through initiatives such as coaching clinics, business meets, and our ‘Mission One Million’ programme — which aims to introduce the sport in government and aided schools across Karnataka — we are committed to taking pickleball to the grassroots. We thank IPA for trusting us with this historic responsibility,” he added.

Extending his support at a media event held at Bangalore City University, Ashique Kuruniyan, pro footballer with Bengaluru FC and the Indian National Team, said, “I’m excited that the tournament is coming to Bengaluru. Pickleball is a fun, accessible sport that welcomes players of all abilities. It’s wonderful to see its rapid growth and inclusion in India’s sporting mainstream.”

Srinivas T.R., co-founder of The Sports School, added, “We believe in nurturing every sport that contributes to India’s sporting culture. A clear career path for pickleball will emerge soon, and we’re proud to provide the platform that supports its development.”

Also present at the launch was Gunaranjan Shetty, President of the Karnataka Wrestling Association, underscoring the cross-disciplinary support for the sport’s rise.

The title partner, Sabala, a brand known for championing active lifestyles and holistic wellness, brings a shared commitment to inclusivity, health, and empowerment through sport — values that align perfectly with pickleball’s community-driven spirit.

With 16 world-class courts ready at The Sports School, the Sabala Indian Pickleball Nationals 2025 promises four days of exciting rallies, youthful energy, and a celebration of India’s growing sporting diversity.

As the paddles strike and the crowd cheers, Bengaluru is all set to serve up history in the making.