India Prepares for 2026 Pickleball World Cup in Vietnam

The Indian Pickleball Association unveiled the official jersey for the national contingent ahead of the 2026 Pickleball World Cup, scheduled for 30 August to 6 September in Da Nang, Vietnam. The launch, attended by IPA director Aalap Sharma, co‑founder Ashish Khanna, Lucknow Leopards representatives and others, highlighted the blue design symbolising the sea and the leopard motif representing the franchise’s grassroots support. Backed by the Cosmic Birla Group, the squad includes a senior team and a U‑14 junior lineup selected through a performance‑first process.

At the same time, Indian players are describing a shift from medal‑focused competition to a professional era, chasing World Cup selection, league contracts and sponsorships. Veteran player Dhiren Patel noted growing parental, school and corporate backing, likening the emerging Indian Pickleball League to cricket’s IPL. Athletes such as Monica Menon and Rahul Belwal stress the pride of wearing the national jersey and the new career pathways the sport now offers.