The recently concluded Indian Open 2024, a remarkable international pickleball tournament organized by Global Sports, made history with an overwhelming participation of over 700 athletes hailing from 12 countries. Notably, players from America, Europe, and Kenya converged in Mumbai, making it the most significant Pickleball event ever held in India.
Classified as a PWR 700 event, the Indian Open 2024 boasted a substantial prize pool of $100,000 and unfolded its excitement from February 8 to February 11 at NSCI, Mumbai. The three-day spectacle of intense competition drew admiration from special guests Sania Mirza and Rohan Bopanna, both revered figures in Indian tennis.
Expressing her gratitude, Sania Mirza stated, “Thank you, Global Sports, for inviting me. Sport in India deserves our support, especially newer ones, and I am always here for the push. I wish everyone the best of luck in the upcoming days of exciting Pickleball competition.”
Rohan Bopanna, World No. 1 in Men’s Doubles, shared his excitement, saying, “It’s wonderful to be at the Indian Open 2024, witnessing an amazing response to the sport of Pickleball. This is my first time on a Pickleball court, and I am genuinely excited. It’s an amazing sport in the country and needs all our support. It has the potential to be a big sport in India, and I look forward to that.”
Hemal Jain, Founder & Partner at Global Sports, expressed his thoughts on Pickleball’s growth in India, saying, “Pickleball in India is not just an emerging recreational sport but is on its way to becoming one of the most popular sports in the country. The significant increase in participation over the years, with almost tripled numbers, showcases the talent from across the nation competing at the highest level. Congratulations to all the winners, and I extend my thanks to everyone for their continued support in making the Indian Open 2024 a successful event.”
The Indian Open 2024 featured an extensive total of 39 categories, witnessing over 2200 games played before the champions emerged in each category. Global Sports, in just a few years, has established itself in the dynamic world of Pickleball. Founded by six individuals from diverse business backgrounds—Hemal Jain, Suresh Bhansali, Yuvi Ruia, Niraj Jain (Tournament Director, Indian Open 2024), and Divyesh Jain, alongside Bollywood Film Director Shashank Khaitan—the organization has left an enduring legacy in the sport.
-IANS
