Pickleball, a sport that ingeniously combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, is carving out a unique identity in India, fueled by converts from other racquet sports and a surge of young, enthusiastic players. This racquet sport, introduced to India in 2006 by Sunil Valavalkar, is rapidly evolving beyond a mere pastime into a structured and competitive sporting option across the nation.
The All India Pickleball Association (AIPA), founded by Valavalkar in 2008, has been instrumental in formalizing the sport, with standardized formats, ranking events, and age-group competitions now present in over 20 states. AIPA is also striving to get the sport recognized by the Government and the Sports Authority of India. As of September 2024, it was reported that over 50,000 people in India had played pickleball in the preceding 18 months, with over 500 courts available and 40 to 50 new courts being added monthly. The AIPA claims there are now over 5 lakh active players in the country. By early 2025, India had around 200 operational pickleball courts which then increased to 1200 by the first half of 2025.
Pickleball's rising popularity in India can be attributed to several factors. It is easy to learn and doesn't require extensive formal coaching, making it accessible to a wide range of individuals. Unlike tennis, where mastering backhand strokes can take years, pickleball allows novices to enjoy the game even when playing with seasoned pros. Fitness trainers have observed that the sport is particularly appealing to those in their 30s and 40s who seek a cardio-intensive social activity without a demanding skill-building process. The sport’s popularity spiked during the COVID-19 pandemic as it provided a safe, outdoor group activity.
The sport's inclusivity is another significant factor, welcoming players of all ages and skill levels. This is reflected in the consistently high participation in mixed doubles events, where players from diverse age groups and skill levels come together purely for the joy of playing. The equipment is also relatively inexpensive, with paddles costing between INR 3000 to 4000 and balls priced around INR 100 to 200, making it affordable for many. Additionally, pickleball can be played on various surfaces, including dedicated courts, community playgrounds, and even makeshift spaces, eliminating the need for extensive infrastructure.
In 2025, pickleball has transcended its status as a mere fitness trend, evolving into a commercial opportunity that attracts operators, entrepreneurs, and investors. The lower cost of setting up a court, coupled with the emergence of homegrown equipment and apparel companies, has further fueled the sport's growth. High-profile endorsements and investments, such as Samantha Ruth Prabhu’s involvement with the World Pickleball League (WPBL), have also boosted the sport's visibility.
Pickleball is more than just a sport; it's a social movement that's uniting people across India. Whether played competitively or for leisure, the sport's growing popularity demonstrates that significant trends can emerge from the most unassuming of settings. Tournaments are held almost every weekend throughout the country. Moreover, pickleball is emerging as an alternative to traditional leisure sports like golf in the corporate world, owing to its ease of organization and inclusivity.
