Pickleball is becoming a popular sport around the world, and India is joining in on the fun. Former Indian tennis star Gaurav Natekar is helping to lead this movement through the World Pickleball League with his wife, Arti Natekar.
So, what is pickleball? Natekar describes it as a mix of mini tennis, table tennis, and some elements of squash and badminton. It’s easy to play and requires a small space—just about 1,800 square feet—so many people can play it. Plus, it costs less to set up pickleball courts compared to other sports facilities.
Natekar believes India needs to move from just watching sports to actually playing them. Pickleball is a great way for many people, even those who never thought about playing sports, to get involved.
When it comes to skills, pickleball is similar to mini tennis. It’s suitable for anyone with good hand-eye coordination, and you can enjoy the game even if you’re not a pro. Natekar enjoys playing with his family, showing how fun and inclusive the game can be.
He noticed that many of his friends were starting to play pickleball, which made him realize its potential. He thinks it can help improve health among Indians, especially given current fitness concerns.
Right now, pickleball is mostly seen as a casual sport, but Natekar believes it will become a professional sport in the future. The average age of players is getting younger, and more women are participating. With upcoming tournaments, like one in Mumbai, the pickleball trend in India is just beginning.
