India’s remarkable rise in the global pickleball arena continued as veteran athlete Nitten Kirrtane secured the country’s second gold medal at the Pickleball World Cup 2025 held in Florida. Competing in the fiercely contested 50+ Men’s Singles (5.0) category, the 51-year-old from Pune delivered a masterclass in precision and endurance, defeating top-ranked international players to claim the top podium spot.
Kirrtane, a former Indian tennis star and Wimbledon Boys’ finalist in 1992, has transitioned seamlessly into pickleball over the past four years. His victory not only adds to India’s medal tally but also underscores the growing popularity and competitiveness of pickleball in the country.
🏆 India’s Medal Tally at Pickleball World Cup 2025
| Medal Type | Athlete Name | Category | Age Group |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gold | Vijay Chhabria | Men’s Singles (3.5) | 35+ |
| Gold | Nitten Kirrtane | Men’s Singles (5.0) | 50+ |
| Silver | Suryaveer Bhullar | Men’s Doubles (4.0) | 40+ |
| Bronze | Priya Mehta | Women’s Singles (3.5) | 30+ |
India’s performance marks a historic milestone, with two golds in a single edition of the World Cup for the first time.
🎾 Nitten Kirrtane’s Journey from Tennis to Pickleball
| Milestone Year | Achievement |
|---|---|
| 1992 | Wimbledon Boys’ finalist with Mahesh Bhupathi |
| 2000s | Represented India in Davis Cup and Asian Games |
| 2021 | Began playing pickleball competitively |
| 2025 | Wins gold at Pickleball World Cup |
Kirrtane’s adaptability and competitive spirit have made him a role model for athletes transitioning across sports disciplines.
🧠 What Makes Pickleball a Game of the Future?
| Feature | Benefit for Players |
|---|---|
| Smaller Court Size | Less physical strain, ideal for all ages |
| Fast-paced Gameplay | Enhances reflexes and strategy |
| Low Entry Barrier | Affordable equipment and easy rules |
| Growing Global Reach | International tournaments and recognition |
Pickleball’s inclusive nature and rapid growth have made it a favorite among recreational and professional athletes alike.
🇮🇳 India’s Pickleball Ecosystem: Rapid Growth
| Indicator | Status (2025) |
|---|---|
| Registered Players | Over 45,000 |
| Active Clubs | 300+ across 22 states |
| National Tournaments | 18 annually |
| International Representation | 12 athletes at World Cup 2025 |
The All India Pickleball Association (AIPA) has played a pivotal role in nurturing talent and organizing competitive platforms.
🗣️ Reactions from the Sporting Community
| Stakeholder | Statement Summary |
|---|---|
| AIPA President | “Kirrtane’s win is a proud moment for Indian pickleball” |
| Sports Ministry | “India’s success reflects our grassroots efforts” |
| Fans on Social Media | “From Wimbledon to World Cup—what a journey!” |
| Fellow Athletes | “Inspiring performance by a true legend” |
Kirrtane’s gold medal has sparked celebrations and renewed interest in pickleball across India.
📌 Conclusion
Nitten Kirrtane’s gold medal at the Pickleball World Cup 2025 is more than a personal triumph—it’s a symbol of India’s emergence as a serious contender in global pickleball. With two golds already in the bag and more matches to go, India’s athletes are proving that age, background, or sport doesn’t limit excellence. As pickleball continues to grow, stories like Kirrtane’s will inspire a new generation of players to pick up the paddle and aim for greatness.
Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available sports reports and official tournament updates. It does not constitute professional sports analysis or endorsement. All views expressed are for informational purposes only.
