Sonu Kumar Vishwakarma’s Journey from Jharia to Chennai: A Pickleball Story Resembling MS Dhoni’s Path
Sonu Kumar Vishwakarma’s journey from Jharia to Chennai draws intriguing parallels to MS Dhoni as he gears up to play in the inaugural World Pickleball League. The 22-year-old from Jharkhand will represent the Chennai Super Champs in this exciting new league, showcasing his skills and passion for the sport.
Unlike Dhoni, who found cricket while playing football, Sonu stumbled upon pickleball while playing cricket six years ago. Captivated by the fast-paced and engaging nature of the sport, he shifted his focus entirely and pursued pickleball as his passion. His dedication and hard work paid off when he clinched the Men’s 19+ gold medal at the World Pickleball Championship in Mumbai, solidifying his position as one of the top players in India.
Now, Sonu finds his ‘sporting home’ in Chennai with the Chennai Super Champs, owned by actor-entrepreneur Samantha Ruth Prabhu. This platform not only allows him to showcase his skills but also elevates the profile of pickleball in India, reflecting the growing appeal of this unique sport.
Sonu and his team will kick off their journey in the World Pickleball League on January 24th, competing against five other teams in a round-robin format. The top four teams will advance to the semi-finals, with the final scheduled for February 2nd in Mumbai.
As Sonu Kumar Vishwakarma embarks on this exciting new chapter in his sporting career, he serves as an inspiration to a new generation of athletes embracing the dynamic and accessible nature of pickleball. His story is a testament to following one’s passion and carving out a unique path in the world of sports.