Marking a defining moment for the sport in the country, the tournament officially welcomes players, fans, and supporters to Bengaluru for a grand three-day sporting spectacle celebrating passion, inclusivity, and competition.

Founded by Arjuna Awardee Gaurav Natekar and Arati Ponnappa Natekar, the World Pickleball League is India’s first-ever professional pickleball league — a movement aiming to bring global recognition to one of the fastest-growing sports in the world.

Leading this sporting revolution, the Bengaluru Jawans, reigning champions of WPL Season 1, will serve as the host team for the event. The franchise is co-owned by acclaimed filmmaker Mr. Atlee and Mrs. Priya Atlee, alongside Mr. Muhammad Jameel, Founder and CEO of NJ Macson.

Atlee, known for his blockbuster storytelling on screen, is now channeling his vision and energy into promoting sports at the grassroots level. His association with the Bengaluru Jawans reflects his commitment to building a vibrant sports culture that inspires youth participation and athletic excellence.

The Bengaluru Open 2025 promises to be a grand sporting festival with:

Over 250 players participating from across India and abroad, including international competitors.

More than 500 matches across diverse categories.

Inclusive competitions spanning all age groups, from juniors to veterans (50+).

The event will be officially inaugurated by the founders of the World Pickleball League and the owners of Bengaluru Jawans, alongside senior members of the Karnataka State Pickleball Association.

With Bengaluru set to witness top-tier competition and an electrifying atmosphere, the Bengaluru Open 2025 stands as a testament to how the WPL and Bengaluru Jawans — under Atlee’s inspiring leadership — are shaping the future of pickleball in India.

By Keerti Kadam

The post Atlee Backs the Growth of Pickleball in India first appeared on Latest News, Breaking News, National News, World News, India News, Bollywood News, Business News, Politics News, Sports News, Entertainment News - CineBuster.

Co-founded by former Indian Tennis players #GauravNatekar and #AratiPonnappaNatekar, the World Pickleball League kicks off on the January 24th and will feature 48 players from India and across the world playing for six franchises.

The Bengaluru Jawans team consists of a formidable line up of players in a roster that includes Indian pickleball sensation Vrushali Thakare who is better known as Hammer Thakare for her dashing style of play. She will be joined by Jack Foster, Katerina Stewart, Trang Hyunh McClain, Marcelo Jardim, Alejandra Bobaria, Felix Grunert, Mauro Garcia who complete an enviable line-up.

Atlee & Priya who are excited to witness the World Pickleball League action unfold from 24th January shared their excitement for the acquisition of the Bengaluru franchise, “Entertainment has always been our passion, and we been fortunate to tell stories that connect with people on a deeper level. Sports, like cinema, has the power to evoke emotions, build communities, and inspire change. The World Pickleball League stood out to us as the perfect blend of both worlds—a delectable mix of high-energy sport and vibrant entertainment. This league is redefining how we experience sports in India, and we are thrilled to be a part of its journey to create a unique platform that celebrates athleticism, culture, and community. We share a deep spiritual connection with Bengaluru, a city where we have been warmly embraced by the affection and support of countless fans and friends. The city’s unique charm and growing significance in our lives continue to leave a lasting impression.”

Welcoming Priya and Atlee to the WPBL family, Gaurav Natekar, Co-Founder and CEO of the World Pickleball League, Said, “The World Pickleball League is a celebration of everything that makes sports and entertainment so compelling—passion, energy, and community building. Priya and Atlee’s entry into the league with Bengaluru Jawans adds incredible momentum to our vision of creating a platform that transcends traditional sport and offers fans a one-of-a-kind experience. Their expertise in storytelling and entertainment perfectly complements WPBL’s goal of redefining how sports is consumed in India, and we’re excited about the journey together.”

With Priya and Atlee’s passion for sports and entertainment, and the WPBL’s commitment to fostering a vibrant pickleball ecosystem, this partnership promises to bring a new era of excitement and growth to the sport in India. Get ready to witness the thrilling fusion of sports, entertainment, and community as the WPBL takes center stage starting from January 24, 2025.

About the World Pickleball League (WPBL)
The World Pickleball League (WPBL), promoted by Natekar Sports and Gaming, founded by former India Number 1 Tennis players, Gaurav Natekar and Arati Ponnappa Natekar, is at the forefront of revolutionizing pickleball in India. WPBL is dedicated to transforming pickleball through exceptional events, engaging fan experiences, and fostering a vibrant pickleball community while setting new standards for the sport. Set to debut in January 2025 with six teams, WPBL will also sponsor grassroots tournaments in each franchise city to develop local talent. With Sony Corporation as an investor and partner, WPBL works closely with the All-India Pickleball Association (AIPA), which is affiliated with the International Pickleball Federation (IPF) in the USA.

By Keerti Kadam

The post Priya and Atlee’s Pickleball team will be called ‘Bengaluru Jawans’! first appeared on Latest News, Breaking News, National News, World News, India News, Bollywood News, Business News, Politics News, Sports News, Entertainment News - CineBuster.