With a unique blend of badminton, tennis, and ping-pong, the game combines the best elements of these sports while introducing its own set of rules. Today, it has spread to 84 countries, and over 5 million people have embraced it as their sport of choice.

One of the major reasons for Pickleball’s rapid rise is its simplicity. Unlike other racquet sports that require years of practice to master, Pickleball is easy to learn and quick to play.

Armaan Bhatia, a Pickleball player, puts it succinctly: “For beginners, a couple of hours is all you need to get hooked.” This accessibility makes the game attractive to people of all ages and skill levels, from beginners to seasoned athletes.

The minimal equipment required and the simplicity of the rules add to the appeal. It’s a sport that can be enjoyed by the whole family. As Viraj Sheth, Entrepreneur and Content Creator, says, “It’s perfect for family bonding. I bring my dad, my brother, my cousins – we all play together. It’s light-hearted and social, yet still a workout.”

The sport’s global appeal is also evident in the way it has captured the attention of investors and players alike. Yuvraj Ruia, a Pickleball player and investor at Global Sports, recalls, “I discovered Pickleball on a road trip in Arizona, and it was love at first game.” In India, the sport is growing rapidly, with more than 1,000 courts already established, and the number continues to rise. Conservative estimates suggest that over 70,000 people are playing Pickleball in India, with more than 10,000 playing professionally.

One of the reasons for this growth is the cost-effectiveness of Pickleball. Arjun Vaidya, Head of India at Verlinvest, explains, “Compared to Tennis or Badminton, Pickleball courts are affordable. One Tennis court can be converted into two or three Pickleball courts, and it’s cost-effective to maintain.”

The global Pickleball market is booming, with a valuation of $1.3 billion in 2022, and projections indicating it will reach $3.85 billion by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.3%. Investors are eager to capitalise on this growth, not only in facilities and gear but also in competitive leagues and sponsorships. As Vaidya points out, “Leagues are forming, with celebrities buying teams, sponsorships, and broadcasting all becoming part of the landscape. And since India already has a strong racquet sports culture, there’s a natural affinity here.”

Pickleball tournaments are already big business. The India Open in Mumbai, for instance, attracted over 700 athletes from 12 countries. Meanwhile, Mumbai’s Monsoon League featured over 800 players competing for a $100,000 prize. Major brands, including Fila, Swiggy, The Westin, Hudle, and ITC, are sponsoring tournaments, and more are showing interest.

Pickleball’s rise in India and around the world is a testament to the sport’s appeal, affordability, and social nature. With minimal infrastructure requirements, it has become both an economical and accessible way for people to stay active and have fun. As leagues and tournaments continue to gain traction, investors and fans alike are watching with keen interest, and there’s no doubt that the future of Pickleball in India is just beginning to unfold.