India secures 28 medals, including 11 golds, along with the prestigious team event title at the World Pickleball Championship Series held in Mumbai.
India delivered a commanding performance at the World Pickleball Championship (WPC) Series powered by World Pickleball League and hosted by the All India Pickleball Association (AIPA). The championship witnessed participation from over 17 countries, 55 international players, and more than 500 Indian athletes. It emerged as one of the largest global events for the sport.
India’s overwhelming performance
Team India stood out as the top-performing nation, clinching an impressive total of 28 medals, including 11 golds, and securing the coveted team event title.
AIPA President Arvind Prabhoo expressed his delight at India’s remarkable performance. He said, “The success of the WPC Series demonstrates the growing prominence of pickleball in India. Our athletes have showcased exceptional skill and determination, making the nation proud. AIPA is committed to nurturing talent and taking the sport to greater heights globally. This championship is a testament to the unifying power of sports and the potential of Indian athletes on the international stage.”
Association with big brands
The PWC Series saw number of big brands joining hands with AIPA for the promotion of sport in India. Bingo, the a much-loved snacking brand from ITC Foods, announced a five-year partnership with AIPA. This landmark partnership, started with hosting the Bingo! World Pickleball Championship (WPC).
Fun-filled moments – aptly termed “Boing!” moments – have been at the core of Bingo! since inception and is being integrated into the sport of pickleball. As part of this collaboration, the classic “Love All” start of pickleball matches was rechristened to a uniquely Bingo! version, “Boing All” at the PWC Series.
Speaking about the association, Mr. Suresh Chand, VP, Head of Marketing Snacks, Noodles and Pasta, ITC Foods., said, “At Bingo!, we’ve always believed that sports and innovation go hand in hand, making this partnership with the All India Pickleball Association a particularly prestigious moment for us, enabling us to support young athletes and sports enthusiasts across the country.”
Mandira Bedia as brand ambassador
During the tournament, AIPA also announced Mandira Bedi as the Brand Ambassador of Pickleball in India, with the goal of encouraging women’s participation in pickleball.
Known for her multi-faceted career as an actress, cricket anchor, author and fitness enthusiast, Mandira embodies the passion and energy that AIPA aims to bring to Pickleball in India.
Mandira Bedi actively participated in 19+ mixed doubles intermediate category in World Pickleball Championship (WPC) Series. In her statement, she shared, “I really love and enjoy playing pickleball. It is accessible, fun, and a great way to stay fit. I have been passionate about pickleball since a while, and now the association has grown stronger, as the All India Pickleball Association has announced me as the brand ambassador for the sport, which is growing so fast.”
Sunil Valavalkar, the Founder of AIPA, also shared his enthusiasm. He said, “AIPA is delighted to announce Mandira Bedi as its Brand Ambassador. We look forward to working together to grow the sport. Mandira Bedi’s involvement will significantly enhance AIPA’s efforts to promote Pickleball, encourage participation, and develop the sport nationwide.”
AIPA is confident that Pickleball will continue to thrive and expand as a sport that welcomes players of all ages and backgrounds.
