Bengaluru Jawans Crowned Champions of World Pickleball League’s Inaugural Edition
Bengaluru Jawans Make History by Winning Inaugural World Pickleball League Championship
In a thrilling final match that had fans on the edge of their seats, Bengaluru Jawans emerged victorious over Pune United with a score of 3-1 to become the champions of the inaugural edition of the World Pickleball League – India’s first franchise-based Pickleball league.
The final showdown between Bengaluru Jawans and Pune United showcased the contrasting yet rewarding paths the two teams took to reach the summit clash. Jack Foster’s dominant 26-8 win in the men’s singles set the tone for Bengaluru, followed by Trang Hyunh-McClain and Alejandra Borobia’s 13-9 victory in the women’s doubles.
Although Pune fought back with William Sobek and Vanshik Kapadia’s 15-6 win in the men’s doubles, it was Katerina Stewart’s impressive 21-9 triumph over Brooke Revuelta that sealed Bengaluru’s championship victory.
Reflecting on the historic win, Stewart expressed her gratitude and happiness, stating, “I’m super grateful and so happy – I still can’t believe it’s happening. These 10 days of pickleball in India have been absolutely crazy. Winning with my team made it even more special.”
The winning team walked away with a prize of $100,000, while the runners-up and standout performers of the league were also honored. The World Pickleball League has undoubtedly set the stage for a new era in Indian sports entertainment, solidifying Pickleball as a sport that is here to stay.
Conceptualized by Gaurav Natekar and Arati Ponnappa Natekar, the World Pickleball League is India’s first-ever professional franchise-based Pickleball league. With an intense 90-match format across 15 ties, each comprising five matches, the league kept fans engaged and entertained throughout.
The introduction of a 15-minute timed format ensured non-stop action, while innovative elements like PicklePlay added an extra layer of excitement to every match, making the World Pickleball League a truly electrifying experience for players and fans alike.
