Becomes the second team owner of the WPBL ahead of its inaugural season starting January 2025
Mumbai, November 22, 2024 – Swiggy Ltd (NSE: SWIGGY), India’s pioneering on-demand convenience platform, today announced its ownership of Team Mumbai in the World Pickleball League (WPBL), India’s first and only global franchise-based pickleball league. Co-Founded by former Indian tennis players, Gaurav Natekar and Arati Ponnappa Natekar, the inaugural season of the WPBL is set to take place from January 24 to February 2, 2025.
Pickleball is among the fastest-growing sports globally, thanks to its accessibility for players of all ages. This sport has become a popular recreational and lifestyle activity and is poised to gain significant traction among Indians in the coming decade. Swiggy’s Mumbai team is the second team announced by WBPL after the Chennai franchise owned by actor Samantha Ruth Prabhu. With the first edition of the World Pickleball League set to take place in Mumbai, Swiggy’s Team has the chance to showcase its skills in front of their home fans.
As one of India’s most loved brands, Swiggy has consistently delighted customers with diverse offerings, from food delivery and quick commerce to dining experiences catering to all age groups. Staying true to its commitment to connecting with consumers in fresh and meaningful ways, Swiggy’s involvement in the World Pickleball League (WPBL) supports a fast-growing recreational trend, enabling exciting community engagement.
Speaking about the acquisition of Team Mumbai in the World Pickleball League, Rohit Kapoor, CEO, of Swiggy Food Marketplace said, “When we started discussing pickleball internally and our association with it, my joke was achar bina khaana kya! Look, it’s a fun, easy game to play for most people. And I can see food stalls, a happy game and the whole family there for a great weekend. We fit right into this scenario and deliver joy to folks, as per usual. This partnership with WPBL and Mumbai is Swiggy being part of what makes the city and indeed the world go round. Which is our way.”
Gaurav Natekar, Co-Founder and CEO of WPBL, stated, “We strongly believe that the World Pickleball League can become one of India’s best and most popular leagues in the next 3-5 years. Brands like Swiggy coming onboard as Team Owners for the World Pickleball League is a true testament to how the sport and the league is vibing with the masses. As one of India’s most-loved companies, Swiggy will add to the overall excitement and help us reach an even larger audience—not just for the league, but for the sport of Pickleball as well.”
As the inaugural season approaches, fans can anticipate an exhilarating experience filled with high-energy matches and a vibrant atmosphere where six teams will compete for glory. The WPBL aims to transcend traditional sports events by creating a lifestyle experience that brings people together through their love for Pickleball.
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 Entertainment Talent Ventures India (SETVI) as a core investor, WPBL works closely with the All-India Pickleball Association (AIPA), which is affiliated with the International Pickleball Federation (IPF) in the USA.
