WPBL: India's No. 1 Pickleball League, Spearheaded by Tennis Legends Natekar and Ponappa

• Founded by former India No. 1 tennis players Gaurav Natekar and Arati Ponappa Natekar, WPBL launched in January 2025 in Mumbai.
• WPBL has rapidly become India's premier franchise-based pickleball league, attracting global talent from 25 countries for Season 2.
• The league strategically scouts talent globally and partners with AIPA to professionalise pickleball in India, balancing international expertise with domestic development.
• WPBL On Tour, a series of off-season events, expands the sport's footprint nationwide, with 57 events completed and a target of 100.
• Season 2, at Jio World Garden in Mumbai, emphasizes a 'sportainment' experience, reflecting broader trends in sports entertainment and fan engagement.

Why It Matters: WPBL, founded by tennis legends, has quickly become India's top pickleball league, focusing on global talent and fan engagement.