Pickleball gathers speed, tempting startups, brands

In India, the sport has seen a staggering 275% increase in active players over the past three years

- Sowmya Ramasubramanian

When Ronak, a 30-year-old businessman in Ahmedabad, moved into a new apartment complex last year, he struggled to connect with his neighbours until he discovered pickleball. "We reserve the court for an hour every day and have a great time," he told Mint. What started as a casual game quickly became a daily ritual.

Ronak is one of thousands of Indians embracing the fast-growing sport that is quietly sweeping the country. The sport has rapidly evolved from a niche recreational activity into a booming business opportunity, drawing attention from startups, investors, and major brands alike.