The Surging Popularity of Pickleball and Its Olympic Aspirations: Insights from Arvind Prabhoo

Mumbai, Dec 20 (NationPress) Regarded as one of the fastest-growing sports in India based on the number of registered players, pickleball has garnered attention from mainstream media. Indian pickleball athletes have experienced a year filled with medals and accolades on the international stage.

As we approach 2024, this unique racquet sport, which blends elements of tennis and table tennis while adhering to its distinct set of rules and court dimensions, continues to attract players from various backgrounds.

In anticipation of a significant expansion in India with the upcoming launch of the World Pickleball League set for 2025, IANS engaged with Arvind Prabhoo, the president of the All India Pickleball Association (AIPA), to reflect on the past year, highlight key achievements, and outline future plans. Here are some excerpts from our email interview:

Q: What drew you to pickleball and how did you enter sports administration?

Arvind Prabhoo: My attraction to pickleball stems from its simplicity, inclusivity, and the happiness it brings to individuals of all ages. It's a sport that transcends barriers and fosters community. My journey into sports administration was influenced by my father, Shri Ramesh Yeshwant Prabhoo, whose passion for developing talent and promoting sports led him to establish PTKS (Prabodhankar Thackeray Krida Sankula), a facility that brings people together through sports.

Through my experiences at PTKS, I recognized an opportunity to contribute back to the community and support the growth of sports that can transform lives.

Q: What do you consider the highlight of the year for pickleball in India?

Arvind Prabhoo: The highlight undoubtedly was India's outstanding performance at the Asian Open Pickleball Championship for the second year in a row. Additionally, the successful hosting of the World Pickleball Championship (WPC) India Series at CCI in Mumbai highlighted our country’s rising profile on the global stage. The enthusiasm and talent displayed by Indian athletes, along with the increasing participation across states, signal a pivotal moment. These achievements indicate that pickleball is moving beyond a niche sport—it is gaining mainstream recognition, and we are on the verge of something extraordinary.

Q: How do you perceive pickleball within the framework of Indian sports?

Arvind Prabhoo: I envision pickleball as a sport that is set to become one of India's most accessible and cherished activities. While cricket and badminton dominate the public eye, pickleball's unique combination of simplicity, inclusivity, and a competitive spirit distinguishes it from others. It bridges the gap between recreational and competitive sports, appealing to individuals of all ages and fitness levels. With adequate support, pickleball can carve out a significant presence alongside other mainstream sports. Its potential could revolutionize India's approach to sports participation and community involvement.

Q: What strategies does AIPA have for the upcoming year?

Arvind Prabhoo: In the next year, AIPA aims to broaden the reach of pickleball by introducing it to more schools, colleges, and local communities. We plan to host a greater number of national and international tournaments to provide our athletes with enhanced exposure and experience. Furthermore, we are enhancing coaching programs, developing infrastructure, and seeking additional sponsorships. Our objective is to enable Indian players to regularly compete on the international stage. We also aspire to achieve recognition from the Ministry of Sports as a National Sports Federation (NSF) to properly support pickleball's growth.

Q: If you had to select one male and one female pickleball player for 2024, who would they be and why?

Arvind Prabhoo: While it’s challenging to single out players, I would select Vanshik Kapadia for his impressive consistency and strategic play, which have led to success in both domestic and international competitions. On the women’s side, Vrushali Thakare stands out due to her determination, skill, and rapid progress. Both athletes embody the dedication and spirit needed to elevate pickleball in India. Their performances this year have been truly inspiring, and they have the potential to spearhead India’s representation on the global stage.

Q: Indian players have excelled in 2024, but what more needs to be done to facilitate their regular participation on the international circuit?

Arvind Prabhoo: Yes, although Indian players have shown great promise, consistent participation on the international stage is crucial for their development. We require increased funding, sponsorships, and governmental support to help players compete professionally abroad. Establishing partnerships with international pickleball organizations and organizing exchange programs can also be beneficial. Additionally, we must create a structured professional league in India, akin to other sports leagues, to provide experience and financial stability for our athletes to train and compete on a global level.

Q: What are your personal goals related to pickleball? How soon can we expect to see young players pursuing it as a career?

Arvind Prabhoo: My personal aspiration is to witness pickleball attain mainstream status in India and to pave the way for young players to pursue it as a full-time career. I aim to see Indian athletes consistently ranked among the world’s elite. Within the next 3-5 years, with the appropriate infrastructure, coaching, and sponsorship support, I believe young players can transition to professional status. Our efforts are directed towards establishing a robust foundation to realize this vision.

Q: Do you believe that pickleball could eventually replace tennis at the Olympics?

Arvind Prabhoo: I don’t envision pickleball replacing tennis at the Olympics, but I do firmly believe it can secure its rightful place alongside tennis as an Olympic sport. The accessibility, rapid growth, and global appeal of pickleball position it as a strong contender for Olympic inclusion. As more nations adopt the sport and international competitions gain traction, it’s only a matter of time before pickleball makes its Olympic debut. Its potential to engage audiences is undeniable.

Q: What other activities occupy your time throughout the day?

Arvind Prabhoo: In addition to my commitment to pickleball, I am heavily involved in community development and initiatives focused on youth engagement. I work on projects that promote physical fitness, sportsmanship, and leadership skills among young individuals. Furthermore, I dedicate time to fostering organizational growth, ensuring that sports infrastructure and administration align with societal needs. This blend of sports and community service keeps me driven and allows me to contribute meaningfully to society.