Isha Lakhani and Naimi Mehta clinched the Pro Women’s Doubles title at the Indian Open 2026, a PWR 1000 tournament sanctioned by the Indian Pickleball Association and organised by Global Sports, held at CrossCourts in Hyderabad on April 5. The duo defeated Pearl Amalsadiwala and Naomi Amalsadiwala 8-11, 11-8, 11-1 in the final, staging a strong comeback after dropping the opening game.
The final saw a shift in momentum after the first game, with Isha and Naimi adjusting their approach and taking control in the next two games. Their ability to handle pressure situations and maintain consistency proved decisive as they closed out the match in dominant fashion.
Speaking to Pickleball Now after the win, both players reflected on the intensity of the final and their performance.
“It was a great match. It was a three-setter and very close, but we pulled through. I am very happy about it,” Isha said.
Naimi echoed the sentiment, acknowledging the challenge posed by their opponents. “I am feeling really great. It was a very good final. Naomi and Pearl played really well from the beginning to the deciding set. We were under pressure, but we managed to pull through,” she said.
The pair also highlighted the growing understanding between them, which played a key role in their success on court. “We have been playing together for a while now, both internationally and nationally. We have been training a lot together as well, and there is a nice bond that is showing on court,” Isha added.
Naimi also expressed her satisfaction with the result and the overall experience. “It was a great match and I am very happy that we could bring the gold home,” she said.
The victory added another milestone to their partnership, which has steadily grown stronger through consistent performances. Their win in Hyderabad underlined both their experience and ability to deliver in high-pressure matches, as they continue to establish themselves as a formidable pair in Indian pickleball.
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.
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