Pickleball Seeks Recognition as National Sport Federation after Successful World Championship in Mumbai
The All India Pickleball Association (AIPA) is making strides towards gaining recognition as a National Sports Federation (NSF) after the successful hosting of the inaugural World Pickleball Championship in Mumbai this month. With around 650 players from various countries participating in the event, the sport is gaining momentum on the global stage.
AIPA chief Arvind Prabhoo expressed optimism about the ministry’s response to their recognition request, stating that the association has been preparing young Indian players for future Olympic competitions. Despite not being an Olympic sport yet, Prabhoo believes that pickleball has the potential to become a part of the Games in the coming years.
One of the key factors contributing to the sport’s popularity is the affordability of equipment, with Indian companies manufacturing paddles and balls at a fraction of the cost compared to imported ones. This, coupled with the minimal space requirement for playing, makes pickleball a viable option for those looking for a recreational and less physically demanding sport.
Furthermore, sponsorship and funding from AIPA are helping to promote grassroots development of the sport in various states across the country. With its easy accessibility and appeal to a wide range of players, pickleball is quickly becoming a favorite among enthusiasts in India and beyond.
As the sport continues to grow in popularity, AIPA is confident that pickleball will soon be recognized as an Olympic sport, paving the way for Indian players to compete on the international stage and potentially bring home medals in the future.
