Sony Sports Network Secures TV Rights for World Pickleball League

Sony Sports Network has bagged the television broadcast rights of the World Pickleball League (WPBL), the first franchise-based Pickleball league of India. The sport continues to boom in India as over 50,000 players signed up in 2024. Nearly 1,000 courts exist in the country and are growing each month. Through this alliance, Sony Sports Network has therefore spread the game and reached an even broader audience of viewers all across the nation.

The league, conceptualized by Arjuna Awardee and former Indian tennis icon Gaurav Natekar, in collaboration with former India No. 1 Arati Ponnappa Natekar, is set to debut on January 24, 2025, on Sony Sports Ten 2 channels.

Fans are in for an exciting live-action experience as six vibrant teams: Dilli Dillwale, Pune United, Mumbai Pickle Power, Bengaluru Jawans, Chennai Super Champs, and Hyderabad Superstars go head-to-head in a thrilling ten-day tournament. The competition will feature 18 high-energy games, showcasing 48 top international players from 14 different countries.

India's best Pickleball talents that comprises Vrushali Thakare, Mayur Patil, Vanshik Kapadia, Sonu Vishvakarma, Isha Lakhani, and Kuldip Mahajan will bring their international experience to the WPBL court, representing their respective franchises. The League will also give fans a chance to see some of the world's best Pickleball stars, including William Sobek, Willy Ching, Max Freeman, among others.

Rajesh Kaul, chief revenue officer - Distribution & International Business and Head - Sports Business, Sony Pictures Networks India, said, "Pickleball has experienced a tremendous surge in popularity, not just in India but globally. At Sony Sports Network, we have always strived to bring the best and most diverse sporting content to our viewers and the addition of the World Pickleball League affirms our endeavors. We are excited to showcase the inaugural edition of the World Pickleball League to our audiences and provide a platform that will help expand the reach of this dynamic sport."

Gaurav Natekar, co-founder and CEO – World Pickleball League, added, "We are delighted to have Sony Sports Network as the official broadcaster of the World Pickleball League. Sony Sports Network holds a special place in my heart, given my previous associations with them. Their exceptional track record of captivating audiences with their comprehensive coverage of sporting events across India and the globe is truly commendable. The brand has a deeper partnership with the World Pickleball League, and Sony Sports Network coming on board is a testament to their commitment and trust in the World Pickleball League. Their ability to cultivate fan engagement and enthusiasm for various sports further enhances the excitement as we near the debut season."