Bengaluru: In a major boost to India’s fastest growing sport, the Karnataka Pickleball Association (KPA), under the aegis of the Indian Pickleball Association (IPA), announced the Sabala Indian Pickleball Nationals 2025. The championship will be held from November 13 to 16 at the Sports School in Bengaluru and will bring together top athletes from across the country.
This year’s championship is a milestone. It will be the first national championship to be played after pickleball received official National Sports Federation (NSF) IPA recognition from the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India. The event has so far attracted over 1,200 participants from more than 20 states and includes age and ability categories from under 12 to 70+ in men’s, women’s and mixed formats.
Shree Harsha, President, Karnataka Pickleball Association, said, “The Nationals are a landmark event for the sport and we are extremely fortunate to host it here in Bengaluru. Pickleball has grown tremendously globally and the recognition of its size and popularity by the Government of India has given it a new identity and direction. At KPA, we are working to further build on this momentum through initiatives such as coaching clinics, business meetings and our ‘Mission One Million’ program which aims to bring pickleball to state and supported communities Schools across Karnataka. We thank the Indian Pickleball Association for recognizing our work and trusting us to host this prestigious event at a beautiful 16-court venue.”
Expressing his support for the sport at a media meet at Bangalore City University (BCU), Ashique Kuruniyan, professional footballer of Bengaluru FC and the Indian national team, said: “I am happy that the tournament is coming to Bengaluru. It is another chapter in the growth of the sport in India. Pickleball is a fun sport and accessible to people of different physical abilities, so I am sure it will continue to grow.”
Srinivas TR, co-founder of Sport School, said: “In due course, there will be a clear career path in pickleball. As an institution, we believe in supporting any sport that helps create a strong sports culture and enables individuals to focus on their careers. We will support and develop any sport that encourages participation and growth and pickleball has that potential. We are excited to be part of its journey and development.”
Gunaranjan Shetty, President, Karnataka Wrestling Association was also present at the media event.
Sabala, a brand committed to promoting active lifestyles and holistic wellness, joins as title partner, reflecting shared values of inclusivity, health and empowerment through sport.
