Four-day championship to be held from November 13 to 16 at The Sports School
Bengaluru, November 10, 2025: India’s fast-rising sport pickleball is set for a historic milestone as the Karnataka Pickleball Association (KPA), under the banner of the Indian Pickleball Association (IPA), announced the first-ever Indian Pickleball Nationals 2025, powered by Sabala. The national championship will be hosted from November 13 to 16 at The Sports School, bringing together top players from across the country.
The inaugural edition gains added significance as it is the first Nationals to be held after the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports officially recognised IPA as the National Sports Federation (NSF) for pickleball. The event has already recorded more than 1,200 entries from over 20 states, with competitions lined up across Men’s, Women’s and Mixed categories, from Under-12 to 70+.
KPA President Shree Harsha said, the tournament marks a major step for the sport. “Hosting the first Nationals in Bengaluru is a proud moment. Pickleball has grown rapidly worldwide, and the Government of India’s recognition has given the sport a fresh identity and direction. Through coaching clinics, business meets and our ‘Mission One Million’ programme—which aims to introduce pickleball in government and aided schools—we are working to expand its reach across Karnataka. We are grateful to the IPA for placing their trust in us and for supporting this event at a venue equipped with 16 courts,” he said.
Pro footballer and Bengaluru FC player Ashique Kuruniyan, speaking at a media interaction at Bangalore City University, welcomed the championship’s arrival in the city. “It’s exciting to see the Nationals coming to Bengaluru. Pickleball is enjoyable, accessible and suitable for people with varying fitness levels. The sport has a bright future and will only continue to grow,” he said.
Srinivas TR, Co-founder of The Sports School, said the institution is committed to supporting emerging sports. “A structured career path in pickleball will evolve in the coming years. We believe in promoting every sport that nurtures a strong culture and helps individuals pursue their aspirations. Pickleball certainly holds that promise, and we are glad to be part of its development,” he remarked.
Also present at the media briefing was Gunaranjan Shetty, President of the Karnataka Wrestling Association.
Sabala, known for championing active and holistic wellness, has partnered as the title sponsor, reflecting shared values of inclusivity, health and empowerment through sport.
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