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What Is Pickleball? All You Need To Know About The Sport
What Is Pickleball: Pickleball is a sport which is widely played in the United States, it's rage has now spread over to the other countries around the world including India.
Andre Agassi Playing Pickleball
Photo : AP Photos
Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the world and is played by millions across the globe. The sport was invented in the United States where it has seen the largest participation. According to the 2023 APP Tour's Pickleball Participation Report, 36.5 million players are there in the United States.
What Is Pickleball?
Pickleball is very interesting as a sport not only due to the fast and frantic action happening on both sides of the court but also because it is an incorporation of three majorly loved sports - the likes of tennis, table tennis, and badminton. It is played on a court that is about the size of a doubles badminton court. The lively nature of the sport can be one of the reasons for its growing popularity in India.How Was Pickleball Invented?
Pickleball as a sport was invented in Bainbridge Island, Washington in 1965. Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum were inspired to improvise to find new activities to keep their children busy in the summers. They developed a fun and easy-to-learn game using ping-pong paddles, a perforated plastic ball, and a lowered badminton net. According to legend, Joel's mother Joan Pritchard, Joel's wife, compared the hastily assembled gear to the "pickle boat" used in crew races, where the remaining rowers were selected. Another version states that the name was inspired by their dog, Pickles. Though its origins are still jokingly contested, one thing is certain: pickleball swiftly moved beyond a backyard sport.From Humble Beginnings To Worldwide Acclaim
The game's versatility and ease of use drove its expansion. Pickleball, which may be played as singles or doubles, appeals to players of all ages and skill levels since it combines strategy with exercise. Communities quickly grew, competitions were held, and pickleball had become popular all over the country by the 1980s. With millions of participants worldwide, it has achieved notoriety as the US sport with the quickest rate of growth and even served as the model for a professional league.How was India Introduced to Pickleball?
In India, pickleball took a significant turn in 2007. After being introduced to the sport in the US, Sunnil Valavalkar, A pioneer of the Pickleball scene in India brought it back with the intention of spreading its joy. As the recognised voice of USA Pickleball, he founded the All India Pickleball Association (AIPA) in 2008. A major turning point in its development was the 2013 Mumbai tournament, which was the first national competition. Since then, pickleball has become more and more popular, with courts appearing in public parks, clubs, and even schools. Its expansion is being driven by committed players and groups like AIPA, which host competitions, educate coaches, and recruit new participants through outreach initiatives.Why is India Getting Into Pickleball?
India is seeing a boom in pickleball due to several factors. It has simple guidelines and an affordable price. It's accessible due to its simple rules and reasonably priced equipment. In addition, it is a social sport that promotes physical activity among all age groups and builds community. The competitive element also draws ambitious players looking for challenges and competitions. Pickleball is a great fit for the varied sports scene in India since it provides a special fusion of enjoyment, inclusion, and competition.Get Latest News Live on Times Now along with Breaking News and Top Headlines from Pickleball, Sports and around the world.
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