Top players from the All India Pickleball Association (AIPA) have set their sights on the upcoming World Pickleball Championships (WPC), which will take place in Mumbai from November 12-17 to give a boost to the popularity of pickleball in India.
Mumbai hosting the WPC underscores India’s growing interest in the sport. Some of India’s top players like Vanshik Kapadia, Tejas Mahajan, Vrushali Thakare, and Isha Lakhanai were optimistic that this high-profile event will further propel the sport’s popularity within the country.
“Hosting the World Pickleball Championships in India is an incredible opportunity for us. Thanks to AIPA’s efforts in grassroots development, we now have access to facilities and training programs that are preparing us to compete internationally. It’s amazing to see the sport gaining recognition here,” said Vanshik Kapadia, who was the gold medallist in 19+ in both men’s doubles and mixed doubles at the recent Asia Pickleball Games.
“AIPA has been a constant pillar of support for us, helping us hone our skills and challenging us to reach our highest potential. Competing in events abroad like those in Vietnam and Bali has boosted our confidence, and I believe the exposure we’re getting at home will inspire many more young players to take up the sport,” Tejas Mahajan, who partnered Vanishk to win the gold in the same tournament, added.
Vrushali Thakare who won bronze in the 19+ women’s doubles category also emphasized the impact of AIPA’s initiatives, stating, “AIPA’s grassroots programs have been instrumental in preparing us for international challenges. The backing we receive allows us to perform well on the global stage and brings India closer to becoming a competitive force in pickleball.”
