Copyright timesnownews
For Amrita Mukherjee, representing India at the Pickleball World Cup 2025 is about more than medals, it’s about momentum. The Kolkata-based athlete believes the upcoming event could reshape India’s place on the global pickleball map. “I certainly hope so. I hope this team can give a boost to Indian pickleball, playing all out with heart and hustle on the global stage,” Amrita said in an exclusive chat with Pickleball Now. “Events of such stature will definitely add to the pickleball ecosystem, with talented players gunning for the team, pushing the level higher and higher,” she added. While she prepares to compete, Amrita is equally invested in building the sport at home. A co-partner at two pickleball venues in Kolkata, she was among the first to help establish a dedicated court at The Stadel Hotel in Salt Lake in 2024. “In fact, I’m a co-partner at a couple of pickleball venues, had set up one of Kolkata’s first pickleball courts, at the beautiful Stadel Hotel in Salt Lake, in 2024. And that’s also what makes the journey special, playing a tiny part in creating the system,” she explained. Her passion for the sport is tied to its exponential growth in eastern India. “It’s been rewarding to see the sport grow so explosively only over a year or so, now Kolkata probably has more than 150 pickleball courts. There’s an abundance of talent in West Bengal. With more systematic tournaments, coaching, and expanding infrastructure, the sky is the limit,” she said. Amrita’s story reflects a broader truth about India’s rise in pickleball, one powered not just by athletes, but by visionaries helping the sport find its roots in cities and small towns alike. About Indian Pickleball Association: The Indian Pickleball Association is the official governing body for pickleball in India and is dedicated to promoting, developing, and organising the sport across the country. The association continues to inspire players of all ages and skill levels to embrace the game through events like the IPA Nationals. IPA is affiliated with the Asian Pickleball Association (APA) and the Global Pickleball Federation (GPF). About Pickleball World Ranking: PWR is a national ranking system that spans all age groups, skill divisions, and formats -including singles, doubles, and mixed categories. It serves as the official National Sports Federation Ranking for India. With multiple sanctioned events taking place every week across the country, PWR defines the top Indian players at every level and forms the foundation for team selection at the school, district, state, and national stages. Stay connected with all the latest news on Pickleball, exclusive behind-the-scenes content, tips, and inspiration you won't find anywhere else. Your ultimate destination for all things pickleball – where the community comes together for news, views, and the sport that's sweeping the globe. Follow us at @pickleballnow on Instagram and be part of the community!
