Global Sports brought together top international pickleball stars, including former PPA World No. 2 Jay DeVilliers, Quang Duong, Thaddea Lock, Megan Fudge, and Ryler DeHeart, for the Monsoon Pickleball Championship 2.0 in Mumbai. Held from August 20 to August 25, 2024, the event cemented its status as one of the largest pickleball championships in Asia.
International stars shine at the Championship
Over 800 players competed in 47 categories, including notable stars like Jay DeVilliers, known as the “Flying Frenchman,” and other international champions such as Meghan Fudge, Ryler DeHeart, Rob Nunnery, and Thaddea Lock. The event brought flair and excitement to the Indian pickleball scene, further elevating its prestige.
Growing popularity of Pickleball in India
Pickleball’s popularity in India has surged by 159% over the past five years. Global Sports organisation is committed to further expanding the sport, aiming to double its growth in the next five years. “We are extremely happy with the success of the second edition. Global Sports is dedicated to promoting pickleball in India and providing young talent with a pathway to professional play,” said Niraj Jain, Tournament Director and Partner at Global Sports.
Global Sports’ vision for Pickleball
The Monsoon Pickleball Championship featured a total prize pool of $100,000 (approx INR 1 crore), with categories ranging from Open PRO to age-specific divisions. Global Sports, founded by Hemal Jain, Suresh Bhansali, Niraj Jain, and Divyesh Jain, is partnered with Bollywood personalities like Karan Johar and Shashank Khaitan to support the growth of the sport. Earlier in 2024, Global Sports signed a historic partnership with the PPA Tour and MLP, with plans to host the Indian Open and Monsoon Pickleball Championship in 2025.
