Mangaluru: The coastal city of Mangaluru has officially embraced the nation’s latest sporting sensation—pickleball. With the opening of the city’s first dedicated pickleball courts, sports enthusiasts from all walks of life are exploring this fast-paced racquet sport, which uniquely blends elements of tennis, badminton and table tennis.
Once known primarily for badminton, tennis and squash, Kudla (as Mangaluru is fondly called) is witnessing a surge in interest for pickleball, signalling a new era in its sporting culture.
First pickleball court draws crowd
The pickleball trend took off in Mangaluru about three weeks ago with ‘OneLve’, which launched the city’s first dedicated pickleball area in a mall near Bejai. Currently, the facility houses three courts, with two more nearing completion to meet the growing demand.
Speaking about the growing interest, the facility’s in-charge, who preferred to remain anonymous, said, “Our clientele are those in their 30s and above. They come here after work with friends and enjoy the sport. The demand is growing as pickleball becomes popular in Mangaluru too.”
The sport offers a unique blend of fast rallies, simple rules and strategic gameplay, making it appealing to beginners and seasoned athletes alike.
A sport for all ages
Pickleball has gained popularity across India for its inclusivity, catering to players aged from eight to eighty. It is not only a recreational activity but also a fitness-driven sport that improves agility, reflexes and stamina while enhancing mental focus and decision-making.
Beyond physical benefits, pickleball encourages bonding, teamwork and social interaction, making it a favourite among both fitness enthusiasts and casual players.
Growing presence in Karnataka
According to the Karnataka State Pickleball Association, the sport has seen remarkable growth in the past two years. Bengaluru alone boasts over 400 courts, while another 100 are spread across nine districts of the state, including Mangaluru.
Rajath Kankar M.R., founder general secretary of the association, highlighted the sport’s rapid expansion, stating, “Our association has been active for the past decade and has seen sports lovers from eight years to 80 years enjoying this. It is mainly played for three reasons—fitness, fun and competition.”
He also pointed out that the risk of injuries is lower than in other racquet sports, especially when played on synthetic courts.
Pickleball: more than just a game
The sport’s appeal lies not just in its accessibility and fast-paced gameplay but also in the sense of community it fosters. Players are drawn not only by the thrill of competition but also by the social connections formed on and off the court.
With dedicated courts now operational in Mangaluru and more planned, the city’s sporting culture is set to diversify further, promising exciting times for enthusiasts of this growing sport.
Conclusion
Mangaluru’s introduction to pickleball is more than a passing trend—it marks the beginning of a new chapter in the city’s recreational and fitness landscape. With facilities expanding and participation on the rise, pickleball is poised to become a mainstay in the coastal city’s sporting calendar.