Tamil Nadu Government to Establish Pickleball Courts Statewide

Chennai, Nov 18 (PTI) - In a significant step towards promoting the sport of pickleball within Tamil Nadu, the government is planning to establish dedicated pickleball courts in Chennai and other areas of the state, as announced by Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin on Tuesday.

Expressing Tamil Nadu's dedication to supporting modern sports and providing opportunities for young talents through organized programs, tournaments, and high-quality facilities, Udhayanidhi Stalin emphasized the state's commitment during an event in the city.

"Pickleball is a game that welcomes participants of all ages and backgrounds. Its global popularity speaks to its widespread appeal. Tamil Nadu is an active player in sports development and has hosted several national and international events. I am pleased to witness this initiative unfolding for the first time in Chennai," Udhayanidhi Stalin stated at the event.

He made these remarks while introducing various franchisees for the inaugural edition of the Indian Pickleball League, set to be hosted in Delhi from December 1 to 7, 2025.

"Under our Chief Minister M K Stalin's leadership, Tamil Nadu is fostering a robust, decentralized modern sports ecosystem. Initiatives like the Indian Pickleball League play a vital role in motivating young talent and enhancing India's standing on the international sporting stage," he added.

Discussing the upcoming first-ever pickleball premier league organized by the Tamil Nadu Pickleball Association in 2024, he noted that grassroots competitions have been crucial in popularizing the sport.

"As part of efforts by the Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu (SDAT), we are establishing dedicated pickleball courts in Chennai and throughout Tamil Nadu," he revealed.

Udhayanidhi Stalin extended his congratulations to the organizers, the Indian Pickleball Association, team owners, and athletes involved in the event, expressing confidence that the league will become one of India’s most thrilling and widely viewed sporting leagues in the future.

The event introduced five franchises in front of prominent figures such as Times Group MD Vineet Jain, Group CEO N Subramanian, and others.

In his brief address, Vineet Jain remarked, "What started as a vision shared by the Times Group and the Indian Pickleball Association has transformed into a movement. This movement attracts passionate and forward-thinking partners who believe in the potential and power of this sport."

He continued, "This afternoon, we unveiled the pioneering team owners for Season 1 of the Indian Pickleball League, India's first official league for the sport. The interest has been overwhelming, but our focus was on finding believers who, alongside partners, truly understand what's required – Vision, Commitment, and Heart," Jain added.

"To each of our new team owners, welcome to the family. Thank you for your trust, passion, and partnership," he expressed.

With excitement running high among fans, players, and team owners ahead of the first season of the IPBL, he remarked, "Together, we are not just launching a league; we are building a sport that represents the future of India."

The five teams introduced are Mumbai Smashers, Hyderabad Royals, Bengaluru Blasters, Chennai Super Warriors, and Capital Warriors, Gurgaon.

Jain commented, "These teams symbolize the scale, ambition, and national reach defining the Indian Pickleball League. Collectively, they bring a fresh competitive spirit poised to establish pickleball as a modern staple in India's sporting scene."

The Indian Pickleball League is an initiative spearheaded by the Times Group and sanctioned by the Indian Pickleball Association, with recognition from the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports. Prominent pickleball players Mihika Yadav and Aman Patel were also in attendance.

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