PWR DUPR India League: A New Era in Pickleball Begins. (Source: File)
India is all set to host the inaugural edition of the PWR DUPR India League, a franchise-based pickleball tournament. This league is a key component of the broader PWR DUPR Indian Tour & League, marking an important step in the growth of the sport.
A New Chapter for Pickleball
The PWR DUPR India League will be the first-ever franchise-based tournament of pickleball in the whole world and thereby is a major milestone. It is similar to other franchise-driven sports and is set to take place in Mumbai from January 10 to 22, 2025. This tournament will also attract fans and top players from across the globe, with an attractive prize pool of $645,000. This PWR 100 event will definitely bring together the best pickleball talent, promising an exceptional display of strategy as well as skill.
A Star-Studded Launch
The league will be officially launched by tennis legend Andre Agassi. The inclusion of the eight-time Grand Slam champion not only brings star power but also highlights the immense popularity of pickleball. Hence, the presence of the former World No.1 in India in January 2025 is expected to generate considerable excitement.
Vineet Jain, Managing Director of The Times Group said, “Pickleball is now the fastest growing sport in India and the world. The Times Group and Pickleball World Rankings are excited to bring The PWR DUPR India League, the first PWR1000 event to the Pickleball community. The event will feature some of the best global talent and Pickleball enthusiasts will be able to enjoy the sport. We are proud to be at the forefront of driving the growth of Pickleball in India and internationally, with this league and have many other activities in the pipeline. I am confident that India has the capacity to make it very big in global Pickleball --and hence, The Times Group and PWR are committed to its fast growth and development.”
Talking about the event, Pranav Kohli, CEO, Pickleball World Rankings, said, “We’re elated to bring the PWR DUPR India League to Mumbai, and we’re even more excited to have Andre Agassi launch this landmark event. The PWR DUPR India League aims to celebrate Pickleball, one of India’s fastest growing sports, seamlessly blending team play with competition and camaraderie. The league will not only serve as a platform to showcase some of the best Pickleball talent from across the globe but will also excite Pickleball enthusiasts as the teams battle it out to be crowned the ultimate champions.”
Ace tennis star Rohan Bopanna, who will be sqauring off against Andre Agassi said, “I’m excited to see the love Pickleball is already receiving in India. It’s wonderful to see so much new talent, as well as a lot of seasoned racquet-sport players transition to Pickleball. I’m excited to play against Andre Agassi in Mumbai and I wish that the PWR DUPR India League will set a whole new standard in the sporting world.”
Expanding Horizons
The PWR DUPR India League is based on a franchise model, and Chennai has already become one of the cities that will feature a team. This aligns with the new rankings structure introduced by PWR, integrating the league with the broader framework of the PWR World Tour and World Series.
Mumbai set to become the Pickleball capital
Mumbai is playing host to the PWR DUPR India League, and the city, known as India’s economic capital, is set to don a new hat and play a vital role in the development of the sport. Mumbai is also known as one of the crucial hubs of pickleball.
Looking at the future
The PWR DUPR India League gives a glimpse into the future of pickleball, and by bringing in the franchise-based model, it is all set to help the game become a mainstream sport in the country. This league will also help local talent get the much-needed exposure and help in grassroots participation, bringing Indian players closer to the global stage.
With the new year on the horizon, the PWR DUPR India League is not far away as anticipation around it continues to build. The attendance of Andre Agassi, along with an exciting format and big prize money on offer, make the league one of the most highly anticipated events of the new year.
PWR was unveiled on July 24 at a grand event in Dubai, arranged by Pickleball League Asia Private Limited, partnered with The Times Group. In the Indian journey, the PWR DUPR Indian League after the Mumbai leg will turn to Japan, while the league will also cross through India, visiting Ahmedabad in March 2025, Pune in June 2025, Bengaluru in August 2025, Hyderabad in September 2025, New Delhi in October 2025, and Chennai in November 2025.
The league is supported by the Indian Pickleball Association (IPA), the Asian Pickleball Association (APA), and the Global Pickleball Federation (GPF), all of which are credible governing bodies with international recognition. It is built on a long-term vision of over 7 years, with a focus on nurturing the sport, creating a legacy, and delivering value to stakeholders.
Stay connected with all the latest news on Pickleball, exclusive behind-the-scenes content, tips, and inspiration you won't find anywhere else. Your ultimate destination for all things pickleball – where the community comes together for news, views, and the sport that's sweeping the globe. Follow us at @pickleballnow on Instagram and be part of the community!
Get Latest News Live on Times Now along with Breaking News and Top Headlines from Pickleball, Sports and around the world.
