ABOUT

WORLD PICKLEBALL LEAGUE (WPBL)
WPBL VISION

To develop the sport of pickleball in India, leveraging its power to foster communities and social connections, while bringing families and friends together.

WPBL MISSION

To provide a platform for Indian talent to showcase their skills against the best in the world, promoting the growth and popularity of pickleball on Indian soil.

The World Pickleball League (WPBL) is set to redefine the sporting landscape in India, merging pop culture, sport, entertainment, and fashion. By bringing the world’s top players to Indian courts, the league will offer groundbreaking experiences that blend thrilling sports action with captivating entertainment through interactive elements, live performances, and immersive technologies.

At its core, WPBL embraces the idea that pickleball is more than just a game; it’s a lifestyle that fosters community, promotes fitness, and strengthens social bonds. This festival of sport is designed to engage fans through high-quality action, compelling content, and a vibrant lifestyle experience, making it a must-attend event for those seeking a dynamic fusion of sport, music, fashion and pop-culture.

WPBL LONG-TERM GOALS

Establish India as a recognized hub for pickleball globally.

Increase participation levels at all ages, making pickleball a mainstream sport in Indian culture.

Create pathways for Indian players to compete internationally and elevate the country's presence in the global pickleball community.

By focusing on these initiatives, we aim to build a thriving pickleball community in India that connects people and inspires future generations.

WPBL LEADERSHIP TEAM

The Founders, Gaurav Natekar & Arati Ponnappa Natekar have been avid sports lovers and have also represented the nation at the highest level, with Gaurav, a former tennis player ranked #1 in India has won two (2) Gold Medals for India at the Asian Games. Arati, also a former India #1 tennis player & a coach for the junior Indian national team at Wimbledon.

Their mission focuses on fostering the growth and development of sport in India. They aim to harness the transformative power of sport to build vibrant communities and drive positive change. Additionally, they aspire to position India as a premier destination for major sporting events, along with providing a platform for Indian sporting talent to thrive.

ASSOCIATIONS

AIPA

The WPBL is partnered with the All India Pickleball Association (AIPA), the governing body for pickleball in India. AIPA has championed the sport of Pickleball in India for fifteen (15) years. Affiliated with the International Pickleball Federation (IPF) since 2015, AIPA is a founding member of the Asia Federation of Pickleball, Singapore.

As a result, the WPBL stands as India’s only officially certified league, recognized by the country’s apex governing body for the sport. This partnership underscores a commitment to elevating pickleball in India and its ambitions to shine on a global level, while developing India's next sporting icon.

SETVI

Sony Entertainment Talent Ventures Inc. (SETVI) represents a dynamic collaboration between Sony Pictures Network in the USA and Sony Music in Japan.

As strategic and financial partners to the league, SETVI brings a wealth of experience and innovative solutions aimed at enhancing the overall experience for fans and participants alike, revolutionizing the league through cutting-edge technologies and creative strategies elevating fan experiences like never before. SETVI will also play a pivotal role in supporting the league's global expansion strategy.

This partnership is dedicated to pioneering sports entertainment innovations that redefine the way audiences engage with global sporting events.