Pickleball, the fastest-growing sport in the world, is making its mark in India with the launch of the World Pickleball League (WPBL). This professional league, featuring franchise-based teams, is set to redefine sports entertainment in the country. With a format that blends competition, strategy, and high-energy fan engagement, the WPBL is already being compared to the IPL of racket sports.
One of the most anticipated teams in the league is Dilli Dillwale, a franchise backed by Terra Invest and Ashok Amritraj’s Hyde Park Entertainment Group. With strong financial support and a vision to make pickleball a mainstream sport, Dilli Dillwale is expected to be a dominant force in the league.
What is the World Pickleball League?
The World Pickleball League (WPBL) is India’s first franchise-based professional pickleball league, bringing together top talent from India and around the world. The league is affiliated with the All India Pickleball Association (AIPA) and is structured to provide fast-paced, competitive matches.
Tournament Format
- Six Teams: Delhi (Dilli Dillwale), Mumbai, Pune, Chennai, Bangalore, and Ahmedabad.
- High-Profile Players: Featuring international and Indian pickleball professionals.
- Event Dates: January 24 – February 2, 2025, in Mumbai.
- Live Streaming: Matches will be broadcast across OTT platforms and social media.
This format ensures a competitive, engaging, and commercially viable league, with the potential to grow pickleball into a household sport in India.
Dilli Dillwale: A Team Built for Success
Dilli Dillwale is more than just a team—it represents a powerful combination of sports, entertainment, and investment. The team is owned by Smashers Sports, with backing from some of the biggest names in finance and entertainment.
Team Owners & Backers
- Terra Invest – A global investment firm specializing in sports, media, and emerging markets.
- Ashok Amritraj’s Hyde Park Entertainment Group – A Hollywood giant with over $2 billion in global revenues, known for blending sports and entertainment.
- James Blake – Former tennis pro, bringing his experience to pickleball’s growing competitive scene.
- Gaurav Natekar – WPBL Founder and key figure in pickleball’s development in India.
With strong financial backing and strategic leadership, Dilli Dillwale is expected to compete at the highest level while also driving fan engagement and commercial success.
Why Pickleball is the Next Big Thing in India
Pickleball is no longer just a casual sport—it’s one of the fastest-growing sports worldwide. In the United States alone, over 4.8 million people play pickleball, and the sport is seeing major investments from athletes and celebrities like LeBron James, Tom Brady, and Kevin Durant.
What Makes Pickleball So Popular?
- Easy to Learn – It’s beginner-friendly and suitable for all age groups.
- Great for Fitness – Offers a high-intensity yet low-impact workout.
- Social and Engaging – Designed for both casual and competitive play.
- Fast-Paced and Entertaining – Matches are quick, intense, and exciting for spectators.
With India’s growing interest in non-cricket sports, pickleball has massive potential to become a mainstream sport. The WPBL’s structured format and entertainment-driven approach aim to do for pickleball what the IPL did for cricket.
Dilli Dillwale’s Players and Strengths
While the final team roster is yet to be announced, Dilli Dillwale is expected to feature:
- Top-ranked international players, including professionals from the Major League Pickleball (MLP) circuit.
- India’s best pickleball athletes, aiming to make an impact at the global level.
The team is being built for long-term success, ensuring a strong balance of experience and emerging talent.
Beyond Sports: WPBL as an Entertainment Experience
The WPBL is designed to be more than just a sporting event. The league aims to blend sports with entertainment, creating a new fan engagement model in India.
What to Expect
- Live Performances – Matches will feature music, entertainment, and celebrity guests.
- Premium Fan Experience – A mix of food, fashion, and digital fan engagement.
- Behind-the-Scenes Content – Social media coverage, exclusive team insights, and interactive digital experiences.
This entertainment-driven approach makes WPBL India’s first sports league of its kind, bringing pickleball to a wider audience.
The Future of Pickleball in India
The World Pickleball League (WPBL) is set to change the landscape of professional sports in India. With strong global investors, top-tier athletes, and an innovative entertainment model, the league has the potential to grow into a major sporting event.
