September 10, 2025

The Delhi Open at the DDA Squash & Badminton Stadium, Siri Fort, has ended with a bang! Featuring more than 500 players, this event became one of the largest pickleball tournaments ever held in India. The energy and excitement were sky-high, proving pickleball's rapid rise in the country. Cricket superstar and Dilli Dillwale co-owner Sunil Gavaskar summed up the event perfectly: “Delhi Open in Delhi promises to be the event to look forward to, to be a scene at, and to play. For the players, it’s a wonderful opportunity to not only showcase their skill, their talent, their discipline, their dedication, but also to make a name for themselves so that they can go higher up in the rankings with other pickleball tournaments.” His words captured the dream and drive fueling players across the tournament. Adding to the buzz, Ankiti Bose, co-owner of Dilli Dillwale, said: “The Delhi Open reflects the massive appetite for pickleball we’re witnessing in India. The growth is extraordinary, and with the right platforms like this, we’re creating pathways for talent, sponsorship, and international recognition.” Clearly, pickleball is carving out a strong place in India's sports scene. Dilli Dillwale, the capital’s own WPBL franchise, had a special stake in the event. As proud co-owners and ambassadors, Gavaskar and Bose used the tournament to back their team and support rising stars. Many standout players caught attention and are now in the spotlight for possible selection in Dilli Dillwale’s ranks. This connection between grassroots talent and professional chances is a big win for Indian pickleball. The Delhi Open was packed with firsts: thrilling professional matches showcasing India’s best, lively amateur contests that brought communities together, plus a 50+ age group category proving the sport welcomes everyone. More than just games, it was a launchpad for players aiming to climb the ranks and grab future opportunities. By smashing participation records and highlighting Delhi’s Dilli Dillwale as the city’s champion team, the tournament boldly put pickleball on India's sports map. After the cheers faded, one thing stood clear: the Delhi Open was not just another event—it was a game-changer. It set exciting new standards and paved the way for bigger, bolder pickleball adventures in India. The future sure looks bright and buzzy!

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Tags: Delhi open, Pickleball india, Dilli dillwale, Sunil gavaskar, Pickleball tournament, Sports growth,