Chennai: Chennai Super Champs, the city’s World Pickleball League (WPBL) franchise, has announced the inaugural Chennai Open Pickleball Championship, marking a historic first for the city and the rapidly growing sport. Set to take place in the summer of 2025 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, the tournament aims to bring the exciting sport of pickleball to sports enthusiasts across the city.
The championship, organized under the aegis of the All India Pickleball Association (AIPA) and the Amateur Pickleball Tamil Nadu Sports Unit (APTNSU), has received strong backing from the WPBL, further cementing its commitment to supporting the sport in India. The initiative is also supported by the principal partner, Sathyabama University, which is dedicated to promoting sports and youth engagement.
Samantha Ruth Prabhu, co-owner of Chennai Super Champs, expressed her excitement about the event: “Pickleball is capturing the imagination of people globally, and Chennai is ready to be part of this exciting journey. Our WPBL campaign sparked tremendous interest back home. I cannot wait to see the same translate into wider participation and fun in the Chennai Open Pickleball Championship. We aim to harness that momentum, encouraging youth participation and making the sport accessible to all. This championship is about community, competition, and celebrating the joy of sports.”
Co-owner Himank Duvvuru shared his enthusiasm as well: “The Chennai Open Pickleball Championship highlights our commitment towards ensuring year-round engagement with the sport. We mean to play a part in helping pickleball grow, and what better way for it than to host a first-of-its-kind tournament in our city? We cannot wait to bring the game here, tapping upon and maximising the love for Chennai Super Champs and pickleball at large in the city.”
Dr. Mariazeena Johnson, Chancellor of Sathyabama University, expressed the institution’s pride in supporting the event: “We are proud to partner with the Chennai Super Champs in bringing the Chennai Open Pickleball Championship to life. Chennai’s deep-rooted passion for sports ensures that this event will not only be competitive but also an inspiring experience for players and fans alike. We believe initiatives like these nurture healthier, more active communities.”
Chennai Super Champs is also supported by esteemed sponsors, including Gataca, Apollo, 3 Sisters, Secret Alchemist, and Tula, whose contributions are crucial in making this championship a reality.
The Chennai Open Pickleball Championship will feature players across various categories, with registrations opening soon.
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