The sport expanded beyond metro cities and reached schools, academies, and local clubs through structured programmes. National-level events and leagues helped bring visibility to the game and attracted new players at a steady pace.
The recently concluded Indian Pickleball League further strengthened interest among young athletes and aspiring professionals. As a result, India emerged as a key centre of growth in the global pickleball landscape.
According to rankings released by DUPR for 2025, India stood sixth in the world in terms of total pickleball users and ranked fourth among the fastest-growing pickleball nations globally. The United States topped the list for total users, while Malaysia led the fastest-growing category. The data highlighted India’s rising participation levels and increasing presence on the international stage.
Within Asia, India ranked fourth overall, with several Asian nations dominating the fastest growth category. Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, and India featured prominently, underlining the sport’s expanding footprint across the region. This regional momentum placed Asia at the forefront of pickleball’s global expansion.
In India, the growth followed the introduction of regular tournaments and monthly events aimed at identifying and developing young players. These competitions provided match exposure and helped new players transition into competitive environments. Organisers focused on creating accessible entry points for beginners while maintaining pathways for elite development.
A further boost came when DUPR was named the official rating system of the Indian Pickleball Association. The move provided players with a recognised performance benchmark and helped standardise competition levels across events. For new entrants, the rating system offered clarity and motivation, while experienced players gained opportunities to measure themselves against global standards.
With 2025 concluded, Indian pickleball players are prepared to enter the 2026 season with a structured calendar and increased confidence. Officials and players alike viewed the recent developments as a foundation for greater international participation. The focus now shifted towards global exposure, ranking progression, and sustained grassroots growth.
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