Former World No. 1 tennis player Andre Agassi is set to visit India in January 2025 for the inaugural PWR (Pickleball World Rankings) DUPR Indian Tour and League. This tournament aims to popularize pickleball in India, marking a significant step in the country’s sports landscape. Recently, PWR introduced a new ranking structure, aligning the DUPR Indian Tour and League with this innovative framework.
Eight-time Grand Slam champion Agassi expressed his excitement in a video message directed at Indian fans, stating, “I am thrilled to visit India and engage with pickleball enthusiasts. I eagerly await the PWR DUPR Indian Tour and League and hope it achieves tremendous success in this country.”
Who is Andre Agassi?
Andre Agassi, a legendary tennis player, has claimed four Australian Open titles, two US Open titles, and one each at the French Open and Wimbledon. He also won a gold medal in men’s singles at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics. Recently, PWR was launched during an event in Dubai, which revealed plans for PWR World Series (PWS) and PWR World Tour, with the GCC region set to host the inaugural PWR World Series in February 2025.
Welcoming Agassi to India
Pranav Kohli, CEO and founder of PWR, expressed immense excitement about Agassi’s visit to India. He noted that Agassi’s participation will significantly enhance efforts to promote pickleball in the country. “His passion for sports and his esteemed status in the sports world will surely inspire many. We believe this league will set new standards for pickleball in India,” Kohli stated.
Vinita Jain, the Managing Director of The Times Group, echoed similar sentiments, expressing enthusiasm about having Agassi on board.
Battle of the Leagues
Before the PWR DUPR Indian Tour and League, the PWR DUPR India Masters, featuring “Battle of the League: Stage 1,” will take place from October 24 to 27 in New Delhi. Each category of the Battle of the League offers winners a secured spot in the DUPR Nationals in the United States, including travel and accommodation expenses covered by PWR. The PWR DUPR events have been approved by the Indian Pickleball Association, the Asian Pickleball Association, and the Global Pickleball Federation.
What is Pickleball?
Pickleball is a captivating combination of tennis and badminton, played with a perforated plastic ball and paddles. The game can be played as singles or doubles on a court that measures 44×20 square feet. Its fast-paced nature and accessibility make it an appealing sport for all age groups.
Origins of the Game
This sport originated in 1965, created by three fathers in the United States. The name “pickleball” was inspired by one of the fathers’ dogs, named Pickles, which became associated with the game’s playful spirit. There have been ongoing discussions about including pickleball in the Olympics, showcasing its rising popularity and significance in the global sports arena.
Conclusion
With Andre Agassi’s visit set to foster the growth of pickleball in India, the PWR DUPR Indian Tour and League presents an exciting opportunity for sports enthusiasts. As the sport gains traction, it is likely to become a prominent fixture in the Indian sports culture, providing entertainment, competition, and community engagement.
